4 out of 4 stars
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Grown-ups often think that children don’t have much problems. Yet, to a tiny person, their problems may seem like boulders that they are unable to climb over. One of these major obstacles that children often come across, is bullying. Children are at the stage in their lives, in which they are learning to interact with their peers, and often, these interactions can leave a lasting impact on their lives.
Kindness Is Key, written by Alexis Bloomer deals with the ever-important issue of bullying. It is a Children’s book that is written with a simple rhyme scheme. It is published by Archway Publishing. The themes that are dealt with in this book, include: bullying, peer-pressure, self-esteem, kindness, and doing the right thing.
This book highlights that all people are different; and that it is a great thing to be unique. We may all have different appearances and personalities, yet at the same time, we are so similar. We experience joy when we are happy, and sadness when our feelings are hurt. The important message that is underlined throughout this book is that we should not judge other people by their looks and we should not be mean to them. Rather, we should always be kind. As the author repeatedly states: “Kindness is key”. On the other hand, standing up to bullies and people that threaten us, is also important. We should not be bullied and be made to feel small just because of who we are. We should love ourselves.
I am glad that this book has been written. I, myself, have a younger sibling, and often teach the same values to her. We have always taught her to treat others with kindness, and to stick up for those in need. Bullying often continues because of the many silent observers around. Children should be taught to speak up when they see someone being bullied, and if they feel wronged by another. This book reminds me of the ‘Golden Rule’ I was taught as a child: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”.
I find that society often emphasizes the basic rights, so children grow up thinking that they have the right and freedom to do whatever they want. However, responsibilities are unfortunately not emphasized as much. Children should be taught that they have the responsibility to be kind and make others feel comfortable around them. As well as the responsibility to stand up and not allow themselves to be bullied.
Pictures are an essential part of any children’s book. The pictures in this book are bright and colorful. They feature an assortment of diverse children together, emphasizing their uniqueness and unity, and encouraging readers to accept all of their differences.
The structure of the book is neat, bright, and colorful, the rhyme scheme is enjoyable to read, and the pictures are attractive and pleasant. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I highly recommend it to all parents with children, and school teachers. Reading this book out loud in a classroom will surely bring the topic to light, and highlight the importance of kindness to the children, while the rhyme will entice the children to focus and retain the message of the book to memory.
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Kindness Is Key
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