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The Kindness Machine
The world needs more kindness! There's a mysterious new machine in Mr. Wilson's second-grade class. Instead of grownups telling children to "make good choices" and "be kind," this special machine shows the students exactly what they can do to bring kindness to their classroom and into their own heart! But what happens when it's time to leave school? Mr. Wilson lets his class in on a secret that they have their very own Kindness Machine inside them to spread kindness wherever they go! In the end, Mr. Wilson teaches his students that they each have their own Kindness Machine within them to help make kind decisions for others and themselves. Join Mr. Wilson in his efforts to bring more kindness into the world.
32 pages, Paperback
Published March 22, 2022
3 people are currently reading
1801 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dankert
1 book89 followers2nd grade teacher
SCBWI Ohio North
12x12 Member
Author of: The Kindness Machine
SCBWI Ohio North
12x12 Member
Author of: The Kindness Machine
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 17, 2021
In a Nutshell: A cute story with a simple yet powerful message.
Story:
While the idea of such a big machine to explain some simple ideas sounds grandiose, the impact it will have on little kids is undeniable. Each suggestion is so straightforward and practical that any child (and adult) can incorporate these suggestions easily. What I especially loved was that one of the points spoke about being kind to yourself. That’s something so many of us forget; that we need to take care of ourselves as much as we do for others. The author is a second-grade teacher and it is very clear that she has put her expertise and her experience to good use in this story.
The illustrations are simple and cute, and more importantly, inclusive. They complement the story perfectly without outshining it.
I am not too sure about this but based on the visual cues, I think the font used in the story is a dyslexia-friendly font as it has bold letters at the start of each sentence and is more weighted than usual fonts. If yes, well done!
There are discussion questions at the beginning of the book for three specific reading points: before, during, and after. These are amazing and will definitely add to the impact of the book and its moral. (I was stumped by one of the questions: “what does it mean to be kind?” So easy to ask, so tough to answer!)
Much recommended to all little readers who want to make the world a better place with kindness.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to Purple Butterfly Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and NetGalley for the ARC of “The Kindness Machine”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
Mr. Wilson is a second grade teacher who is known for his imaginative inventions. One day, he walks into his class with something huge draped with a sheet. On uncovering it, the surprise is revealed to be a “kindness machine.” (Not a spoiler; the title should tell you what was underneath the sheet! 😉) Mr. Wilson uses this machine to explain to the children how to implement kindness in their daily routine and make it their superpower.
While the idea of such a big machine to explain some simple ideas sounds grandiose, the impact it will have on little kids is undeniable. Each suggestion is so straightforward and practical that any child (and adult) can incorporate these suggestions easily. What I especially loved was that one of the points spoke about being kind to yourself. That’s something so many of us forget; that we need to take care of ourselves as much as we do for others. The author is a second-grade teacher and it is very clear that she has put her expertise and her experience to good use in this story.
The illustrations are simple and cute, and more importantly, inclusive. They complement the story perfectly without outshining it.
I am not too sure about this but based on the visual cues, I think the font used in the story is a dyslexia-friendly font as it has bold letters at the start of each sentence and is more weighted than usual fonts. If yes, well done!
There are discussion questions at the beginning of the book for three specific reading points: before, during, and after. These are amazing and will definitely add to the impact of the book and its moral. (I was stumped by one of the questions: “what does it mean to be kind?” So easy to ask, so tough to answer!)
Much recommended to all little readers who want to make the world a better place with kindness.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to Purple Butterfly Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and NetGalley for the ARC of “The Kindness Machine”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
November 18, 2021
I received an ARC of The Kindness Machine for an honest review.
Can you imagine a machine that teaches kindness and compassion? And not just any machine, a colorful one with buttons of all shapes and sizes that kids can push and learn valuable lessons. That’s what the children’s book, The Kindness Machine is all about. Mr. Wilson’s second-grade class explores various ways in which kids can care about others while also being kind to themselves.
The book also contains a series of thoughtful discussion questions, including those for before, during, and after reading. This is an excellent guide for both parents and teachers alike. The bright and lively illustrations bring the book to life and makes me want to jump into Mr. Wilson’s classroom and push some buttons. After all, adults sometimes need a refresher course on this topic as well.
Can you imagine a machine that teaches kindness and compassion? And not just any machine, a colorful one with buttons of all shapes and sizes that kids can push and learn valuable lessons. That’s what the children’s book, The Kindness Machine is all about. Mr. Wilson’s second-grade class explores various ways in which kids can care about others while also being kind to themselves.
The book also contains a series of thoughtful discussion questions, including those for before, during, and after reading. This is an excellent guide for both parents and teachers alike. The bright and lively illustrations bring the book to life and makes me want to jump into Mr. Wilson’s classroom and push some buttons. After all, adults sometimes need a refresher course on this topic as well.
December 13, 2021
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER FOR THIS REVIEW COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Adorable Illustrations and powerful message.
A story where the author focused on the power of kindness and how easy it is to spread kindness.
Adorable Illustrations and powerful message.
A story where the author focused on the power of kindness and how easy it is to spread kindness.
March 7, 2022
The world needs more kindness, that is for certain! What I love about this story is that is illustrates how we all have a superpower…kindness! We need to smile at others, compliment each other, practice self love, engage in inclusive behaviors…mixing all of of these kindness ingredients together makes us kindness chefs! Such a great message for littles (and bigs alike)!
March 22, 2022
'The kindness machine' is a children's book about random acts of kindness and how it can be a superpower.
To begin, the title invites us to imagine a lot about the book, whether it is a real machine or a methaphore. Since it's a children's book, it's a real machine and combines in a very cute form the reality and the ideas that come up with the title.
The characters are Mr. Wilson and his students, which one of them is the narrator. I liked Mr. Wilson because he encourages the kids to do random acts of kindness to make themselves and others happy. He is the kind of teacher that we all would want for our kids, or ourselves.
Even though I wasn't a big fan of the drawings, they were cute and helped the writing a lot. As a non-native english speaker I would say that the language seemed a little complicated, but, once again, I am not a native english speaker so I wouldn't know if it really is for other children.
For me, it was a really nice book that gives a great message, we can all be superheroes by being kind.
To begin, the title invites us to imagine a lot about the book, whether it is a real machine or a methaphore. Since it's a children's book, it's a real machine and combines in a very cute form the reality and the ideas that come up with the title.
The characters are Mr. Wilson and his students, which one of them is the narrator. I liked Mr. Wilson because he encourages the kids to do random acts of kindness to make themselves and others happy. He is the kind of teacher that we all would want for our kids, or ourselves.
Even though I wasn't a big fan of the drawings, they were cute and helped the writing a lot. As a non-native english speaker I would say that the language seemed a little complicated, but, once again, I am not a native english speaker so I wouldn't know if it really is for other children.
For me, it was a really nice book that gives a great message, we can all be superheroes by being kind.
November 12, 2023
First and foremost, as the author of The Kindness Machine, to everyone who has written a review. I truly appreciate it and enjoy reading each review.
I wrote The Kindness Machine because as a mother and a teacher, I want my children and students to be a lot of things, but when you peel back what it is really important, it all comes down to kindness. This book celebrates the power of a teacher, an eager class, a lifelong concept and the importance of being kind to others and also to ourselves. Thank you for being part of this journey. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. It is my goal that this book helps to continue the kindness ripple in homes and classrooms around the world.
"In a world where you can be anything, be kind."
I wrote The Kindness Machine because as a mother and a teacher, I want my children and students to be a lot of things, but when you peel back what it is really important, it all comes down to kindness. This book celebrates the power of a teacher, an eager class, a lifelong concept and the importance of being kind to others and also to ourselves. Thank you for being part of this journey. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. It is my goal that this book helps to continue the kindness ripple in homes and classrooms around the world.
"In a world where you can be anything, be kind."
November 29, 2021
This is more of a teaching tool than a story, but it could be a very effective way to start a conversation about kindness. The Kindness Machine offers suggestions of ways to be kind, and they are phrased in a simple, kid-friendly way that should be relatable for early elementary kids. The book also includes helpful questions to prompt engagement and interaction with readers. This would be a useful resource for pre-K - 2nd grade classrooms.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
April 4, 2022
This book is aimed at children ages 4 and above, which is the perfect time to teach children these important lessons. As children enter pre-kindergarten and kindergarten they are often exposed to classrooms of children for the first time. As they do, they will encounter children from all types of backgrounds. They now must learn to work alongside and together with all those in their classroom. One of the most important and long-reaching skills to learn is to be kind. It’s not always a natural thing for children to think of kindness. Adults can make such a difference by sharing easy ways to be kind. Kindness isn’t hard but making it easy for kids is the key to learning. With the kindness machine, the teacher in this story has totally captured his student’s attention by creating a way for them to be superheroes. This is an adorable book, sure to give young children big ideas about being kind.
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Purple Butterfly Press.
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Purple Butterfly Press.
December 31, 2021
I received an ARC of "The Kindness Machine" for an honest review, which I have submitted for readers in the paragraphs to follow:
Opening the story with a sheet-covered bundle that keeps our breath baited for the big reveal, Christina Dankert’s deliciously colorful picture book, "The Kindness Machine," does not disappoint when the sheet comes off! Instead, second grade teacher Mr. Wilson delights his students by unveiling yet one more of his zany-looking inventions: a contraption all covered in buttons. He proudly calls it “the kindness machine.”
In essence an idea generator, the kindness machine displays principles of kindness, one at a time, at the push of a button. But, with a little guidance from Mr. Wilson, it’s up to the kids to find ways and opportunities to practice the principle! In the process, the kids discover that coming up with applications of kindness has never felt better or been so much fun! What’s more, it gives each of them the special “super power” of being their own kindness machine!
The beauty of "The Kindness Machine" is that, rather than simply leaving children with an abstract mandate to “Be kind,” in age-appropriate ways it invites children to ponder what kindness actually looks like and find their own ways to apply it. The principles the machine displays include sharing a smile or a word of affirmation, being inclusive of others in work and in play, and the often forgotten but critically important principle to be kind and respectful toward oneself.
Set in a colorful classroom with a diverse array of children and with an awesome second-grade teacher to match, "The Kindness Machine" provides a unique opportunity for teachers, parents, and other adults to launch meaningful discussion and activities around kindness. It even includes opening questions that adult readers can use to set the stage!
Opening the story with a sheet-covered bundle that keeps our breath baited for the big reveal, Christina Dankert’s deliciously colorful picture book, "The Kindness Machine," does not disappoint when the sheet comes off! Instead, second grade teacher Mr. Wilson delights his students by unveiling yet one more of his zany-looking inventions: a contraption all covered in buttons. He proudly calls it “the kindness machine.”
In essence an idea generator, the kindness machine displays principles of kindness, one at a time, at the push of a button. But, with a little guidance from Mr. Wilson, it’s up to the kids to find ways and opportunities to practice the principle! In the process, the kids discover that coming up with applications of kindness has never felt better or been so much fun! What’s more, it gives each of them the special “super power” of being their own kindness machine!
The beauty of "The Kindness Machine" is that, rather than simply leaving children with an abstract mandate to “Be kind,” in age-appropriate ways it invites children to ponder what kindness actually looks like and find their own ways to apply it. The principles the machine displays include sharing a smile or a word of affirmation, being inclusive of others in work and in play, and the often forgotten but critically important principle to be kind and respectful toward oneself.
Set in a colorful classroom with a diverse array of children and with an awesome second-grade teacher to match, "The Kindness Machine" provides a unique opportunity for teachers, parents, and other adults to launch meaningful discussion and activities around kindness. It even includes opening questions that adult readers can use to set the stage!
March 18, 2022
The Kindness machine is a wonderful book for helping you start a discussion about kindness and what it means to be kind. Children often find it difficult to articulate what it is to be kind and I am invariably told by them 'it is being good.,' or giving presents. This book explains to children how we can be kind to one another and that we have the power to be kind inside us. The concept is explained in a lovely and easy to read manner. It is slightly long for reading out loud in one sitting and I needed to use two sessions to read the story fully as my time was constrained. It led to many more discussions with the children around the issue and I used the story as a reference and guide. I liked that the book came with some discussion questions as well which were very helpful at teasing out the children's ideas and developing their comprehension.
The story is beautifully illustrated and the children enjoyed getting a chance to read the book in their own time.
This book would be a fantastic resource for your child's library, or classroom and for their social and emotional development.
I received a copy provided by the publisher and this is my unbiased opinion.
The story is beautifully illustrated and the children enjoyed getting a chance to read the book in their own time.
This book would be a fantastic resource for your child's library, or classroom and for their social and emotional development.
I received a copy provided by the publisher and this is my unbiased opinion.
March 14, 2022
“You have probably heard an adult tell you how important it is to be kind, but what does that mean and how can you do that?" Mr. Wilson asks his 2nd grade class in The Kindness Machine. A former teacher myself, I know that educators struggle with how to lead children towards the path of kindness and compassion. The Kindness Machine would be a wonderful discussion starter for any classroom teacher. Lively, colorful illustrations, before/during/after discussion prompts, and an engaging cast of 'superheroes!'
December 1, 2021
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. The Kindness Machine is a joyful book that prompts children to think about what actions they can take to create moments of kindness in their lives everyday. A great tool for teachers and parents alike!
March 22, 2022
So many thanks to Christina for the early copy of her book.
When I heard about the concept of this book, I was so excited. I think it’s important to give children examples of being kind, because it’s a message that is repeated over and over but not always explained.
I think the message was taught pretty well. I think the kids will get it. I think I would have enjoyed it as a child. However, it didn’t live up to my expectations. I think that it will be helpful and enjoyable to A LOT of people. I think it is a good book. It just wasn’t for me. I don’t think the story was as coherent as I’d have liked it to be. Some parts were confusing and lost my attention even as an adult. However, the sentiment is still there and it will surely benefit a lot of people.
(G rating)
When I heard about the concept of this book, I was so excited. I think it’s important to give children examples of being kind, because it’s a message that is repeated over and over but not always explained.
I think the message was taught pretty well. I think the kids will get it. I think I would have enjoyed it as a child. However, it didn’t live up to my expectations. I think that it will be helpful and enjoyable to A LOT of people. I think it is a good book. It just wasn’t for me. I don’t think the story was as coherent as I’d have liked it to be. Some parts were confusing and lost my attention even as an adult. However, the sentiment is still there and it will surely benefit a lot of people.
(G rating)
February 6, 2022
This is an unusual book with an A+ meaning. The idea of a Kindness Machine is unique from Ms. Dankert and totally exciting. 😍 The illustrations help the story flow. 😊 I highly recommend this book for everyone who need a refresher in kindness. 😄 I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.🤗
Mr. Wilson used gadgets in his classroom to keep his kids interested in learning. 😀 This time he brought a large machine with big colorful buttons for his class about kindness.😁 Just wait to see why just a little smile could become contagious. 😃 It really can!! 😋
Mr. Wilson used gadgets in his classroom to keep his kids interested in learning. 😀 This time he brought a large machine with big colorful buttons for his class about kindness.😁 Just wait to see why just a little smile could become contagious. 😃 It really can!! 😋
November 14, 2021
I’m so glad I received an ARC of The Kindness Machine for an honest review. Five stars! I think this is a fabulous book. It takes the simple-but-complex idea of kindness and breaks it down into fun, doable steps for kids to immediately start practicing. The word choice and illustrations evoke joy and enthusiasm, making it an engaging read. I particularly love that the kindness machine reminds kids to be kind to themselves as well as others, which only strengthens the spirit of compassion that radiates from the pages!
January 7, 2022
What can this machine do? I am so excited to share this wonderful book! The Kindness Machine shouts at us to pick it up now—a perfect time. Christina Dankert has created delightful images and ideas to make children’s lives better. How? Through kindness. Children from 3 to 11 and their parents and teachers will treasure this book for its creative artwork and the outstanding ideas which will help kids recognize, develop, and share kindness behaviors throughout their day. Each concept is introduced with heart and compassion, so that children will become confident they can make a difference in their world. All children count—in Mr. Wilson’s classroom and at home. The book addresses both language literacy and positive behaviors which frame the main mission of parents and teachers throughout all learning tasks. The clever and detailed illustrations bring kind behaviors to life and encourage children to act them out each day.
From the moment they see the mysterious cover drawing and then read the book, young readers will quickly enter their own world feeling they have an amazing superpower to control their interactions with others—kindness. The book will help them build confidence in their abilities and the necessary skills to enhance their own social and emotional learning.
A perfect page-turner with clear goals of providing for fun and friendship in a safe environment, The Kindness Machine emphasizes positive behavioral models that will make sense to kids. And best of all? The book talks with, not at children.
The Kindness Machine is enriched with so many ways to engage. It provides a “teacher’s teacher” in Mr. Wilson. The great artwork, the children’s ideas, the introductory and paced questions, and an exciting trail of self-discovery will lead readers to valuable lifelong learning. The book is, indeed, a superpower. Every child will learn how to turn on his own machine as he smiles, invites, includes, and spreads kindness.
From the moment they see the mysterious cover drawing and then read the book, young readers will quickly enter their own world feeling they have an amazing superpower to control their interactions with others—kindness. The book will help them build confidence in their abilities and the necessary skills to enhance their own social and emotional learning.
A perfect page-turner with clear goals of providing for fun and friendship in a safe environment, The Kindness Machine emphasizes positive behavioral models that will make sense to kids. And best of all? The book talks with, not at children.
The Kindness Machine is enriched with so many ways to engage. It provides a “teacher’s teacher” in Mr. Wilson. The great artwork, the children’s ideas, the introductory and paced questions, and an exciting trail of self-discovery will lead readers to valuable lifelong learning. The book is, indeed, a superpower. Every child will learn how to turn on his own machine as he smiles, invites, includes, and spreads kindness.
December 7, 2021
This is a wonderful book. It's so exciting wondering what is under the sheet with the children in the classroom.
Christina Dankert's debut children's picture book teaches us the importance of helping children to act kindly with practical examples. I'm a teacher and it's all too easy to expect children to know how to be kind without explaining how it can be done. This book shows how.
The kindness machine is a brilliant invention with it's colourful levers and buttons beautifully illustrated. The book is clear, clever and the illustrations and message shine brightly. Love it!
Christina Dankert's debut children's picture book teaches us the importance of helping children to act kindly with practical examples. I'm a teacher and it's all too easy to expect children to know how to be kind without explaining how it can be done. This book shows how.
The kindness machine is a brilliant invention with it's colourful levers and buttons beautifully illustrated. The book is clear, clever and the illustrations and message shine brightly. Love it!
December 11, 2021
I received an ARC for an honest review. This book is a great tool to use to talk to kids about the meaning of kindness and how they can be kind to others and themselves. I have not yet run across a book that teaches kids early on that being kind to oneself is just as important as being kind to others. I have a 7 and a 9 year old and we have read this book multiple times, and each time we have a different discussion as to what kindness actions they can do. It is easy for them to understand and, as a parent, I have so much appreciation for the questions on the bottom of the pages as they have led us to have more in depth discussions about how my kids view kindness and what they take away from the kindness “ingredients”. The illustrations and bright and colorful, the students represent a diverse group (we were especially excited to see kids with glasses!), and we had fun imagining what would happen if the other buttons on the kindness machine get pressed. I highly recommend this book as a simple, and informative way to teach kids about how they can show kindness to themselves and others! And because all of the buttons on the Kindness Machine don’t get pushed, my kids have already said they want a sequel! High praise from a 7 and 9 year old!!
November 17, 2024
Book 217 of 300 ~ 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I enjoyed each illustration and the intent behind this book.
Given my role as Vice Chairman II of the Singapore Kindness Movement, this book makes my heart so so happy ♡
I especially liked the little screen below with questions to prompt how one can carry out the task. Brilliant.
Kids and adults alike can benefit from the wonderful feel-good book with the best intentions.
I read this on World Kindness Day but a tad late with posting. I think I'll try to read this every year.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book217of300 #amreading #tbrpile #instareads #readstagram #reading #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #booksAreLife #booksForTheWin #thisbookfairyisreading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramfeature #bookshelf #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookworm #goodreads #booklovers #theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads #bookaholic #bookaddict #bookchallenge2024 #reviews #lovebooks #booknerds
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I enjoyed each illustration and the intent behind this book.
Given my role as Vice Chairman II of the Singapore Kindness Movement, this book makes my heart so so happy ♡
I especially liked the little screen below with questions to prompt how one can carry out the task. Brilliant.
Kids and adults alike can benefit from the wonderful feel-good book with the best intentions.
I read this on World Kindness Day but a tad late with posting. I think I'll try to read this every year.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book217of300 #amreading #tbrpile #instareads #readstagram #reading #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #booksAreLife #booksForTheWin #thisbookfairyisreading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramfeature #bookshelf #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookworm #goodreads #booklovers #theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads #bookaholic #bookaddict #bookchallenge2024 #reviews #lovebooks #booknerds
January 18, 2022
This is one of the best picture/storybook on learning about kindness: how to be kind, what we can do to be kind, which words actually mean kindness and how we can practice it everyday.
I find the concept really innovative and practical. The illustration is fun and the writing/presentation entertaining.
A good book which will find its place in every school and home.
Thank you, Purple Butterfly Press, for the advance reading copy.
I find the concept really innovative and practical. The illustration is fun and the writing/presentation entertaining.
A good book which will find its place in every school and home.
Thank you, Purple Butterfly Press, for the advance reading copy.
January 22, 2022
I found this book to be such a cute, colorful, and creative way to explore kindness. I really loved the discussion enhancements throughout the story as well. I cannot wait to spread kindness by sharing this picture book!
January 2, 2024
What a wonderful book giving kids ideas of the various ways to be kind to others! We need this now more than ever in our society.
December 27, 2021
I was very grateful to receive an ARC of The Kindness Machine for an honest review.
This is a darling story with a beautiful class of diverse students who are learning that they each have a fantastic superpower. I love that the author brought this to the forefront of the story as we so often grow and forget our superpowers....especially the first example The Kindness Machine reminds them of - the power of a smile!
This story comes from a teacher's heart by prefacing, from the beginning, questions for the reader to remember along the way to spark more conversation throughout. Each example The Kindness Machine shares is a simple, concise concept that students are most likely very aware of and they can practice as they read along! We often share with students 'what' to do, but forget sometimes that we need to also share with them the "how" and the "why" which The Kindness Machine does!
As other reviews referred to some words being too elaborate such as "compassionate"; those are the opportunities an author hopes to provide to their young readers a chance to grow and become more aware of what particular words mean - adding to their vocabulary.
I am very excited to share this with my niece and nephews who range from 2 - 5 years old and see how they each respond as we practice what The Kindness Machine is teaching us!
This is a darling story with a beautiful class of diverse students who are learning that they each have a fantastic superpower. I love that the author brought this to the forefront of the story as we so often grow and forget our superpowers....especially the first example The Kindness Machine reminds them of - the power of a smile!
This story comes from a teacher's heart by prefacing, from the beginning, questions for the reader to remember along the way to spark more conversation throughout. Each example The Kindness Machine shares is a simple, concise concept that students are most likely very aware of and they can practice as they read along! We often share with students 'what' to do, but forget sometimes that we need to also share with them the "how" and the "why" which The Kindness Machine does!
As other reviews referred to some words being too elaborate such as "compassionate"; those are the opportunities an author hopes to provide to their young readers a chance to grow and become more aware of what particular words mean - adding to their vocabulary.
I am very excited to share this with my niece and nephews who range from 2 - 5 years old and see how they each respond as we practice what The Kindness Machine is teaching us!
March 22, 2022
What a beauty of a children's book!
Mr. Wilson shows up to his second-grade classroom with a mysterious new machine, The Kindness Machine. This machine helps the kids to see exactly how they can bring kindness to their classroom and into their heart.
Friends, learning how to play and make friends is hard. Especially for my kindergartner. The playground can be rough some days. The “you can only play with me if you’re cool” is starting earlier and earlier. My daughter got in the car with silent tears the other day because the group of girls she wanted to play with told her no. I was shattered.
This book is perfection. I LOVE how it shows ways to be kind that my kindergartner especially connected with. We had a long talk about finding others who look like they need a new friend too. For my daughter and I especially, this was a book that sparked a lot of great conversations that were perfectly on her level. I also loved the questions that were at the beginning on the book, as well as sprinkled throughout. This was such a fun way to cover such a very important topic.
I am definitely going to be picking up a copy to donate to my daughter's classroom and request this at my local library.
Mr. Wilson shows up to his second-grade classroom with a mysterious new machine, The Kindness Machine. This machine helps the kids to see exactly how they can bring kindness to their classroom and into their heart.
Friends, learning how to play and make friends is hard. Especially for my kindergartner. The playground can be rough some days. The “you can only play with me if you’re cool” is starting earlier and earlier. My daughter got in the car with silent tears the other day because the group of girls she wanted to play with told her no. I was shattered.
This book is perfection. I LOVE how it shows ways to be kind that my kindergartner especially connected with. We had a long talk about finding others who look like they need a new friend too. For my daughter and I especially, this was a book that sparked a lot of great conversations that were perfectly on her level. I also loved the questions that were at the beginning on the book, as well as sprinkled throughout. This was such a fun way to cover such a very important topic.
I am definitely going to be picking up a copy to donate to my daughter's classroom and request this at my local library.
January 1, 2022
I received The Kindness Machine ARC to offer my honest review.
Everyone’s favorite teacher, Mr. Wilson, invented the Kindness Machine. He frequently creates clever gadgets to teach math and improve reading. This time, he brought in a huge contraption that harnesses superpowers—The Kindness Machine. The Kindness Machine produces prompts that immediately engage the children in simple acts of kindness—Smile, Say It, Love Yourself, Invite and Include, and Be a Chef (my personal favorite). Soon these kind actions turn into superpowers that propel the class to choose kindness. The illustrations are bright and cheerful, making the book a joy to turn each page. I love the discussion questions before the story. This gives teachers and students a starting point to think and talk about kindness.
The Kindness Machine is a must in classroom and children’s libraries. Bravo, Dankerts on your debut success.
Everyone’s favorite teacher, Mr. Wilson, invented the Kindness Machine. He frequently creates clever gadgets to teach math and improve reading. This time, he brought in a huge contraption that harnesses superpowers—The Kindness Machine. The Kindness Machine produces prompts that immediately engage the children in simple acts of kindness—Smile, Say It, Love Yourself, Invite and Include, and Be a Chef (my personal favorite). Soon these kind actions turn into superpowers that propel the class to choose kindness. The illustrations are bright and cheerful, making the book a joy to turn each page. I love the discussion questions before the story. This gives teachers and students a starting point to think and talk about kindness.
The Kindness Machine is a must in classroom and children’s libraries. Bravo, Dankerts on your debut success.
January 4, 2022
I received an ARC for The Kindness Machine for an honest review and I really enjoyed it!
I liked the idea of Mr. Wilson, the teacher bringing a kindness machine into the classroom to explain to the children ways to be kind, but I loved that by the end of the book, the children realized that they didn't need a machine to be kind, they could dispense kindness themselves. Kindness is a simple concept but children and adults need to be reminded of the simple things that we can do for each other and for ourselves. Smiling is such a great and simple suggestion. I also loved the idea of being a chef and incorporating different ideas of kindness. The illustrations were colorful and engaging and the diversity of the students can help children to see themselves in these situations and implement kindness.
I liked the idea of Mr. Wilson, the teacher bringing a kindness machine into the classroom to explain to the children ways to be kind, but I loved that by the end of the book, the children realized that they didn't need a machine to be kind, they could dispense kindness themselves. Kindness is a simple concept but children and adults need to be reminded of the simple things that we can do for each other and for ourselves. Smiling is such a great and simple suggestion. I also loved the idea of being a chef and incorporating different ideas of kindness. The illustrations were colorful and engaging and the diversity of the students can help children to see themselves in these situations and implement kindness.
January 4, 2022
I received an ARC of The Kindness Machine for an honest review. I absolutely love this book and bought 5 copies to include in local libraries. We need way more kindness in the world and starting kids early is key. I love that the author states kindness is a “superpower”, which I think will empower children to feel like their kindness is making a difference in this crazy world. I also love how the book gives many simple examples of how to be kind - simple ways that we often forget about - but nonetheless powerful examples of kindness. The question prompts are a wonderful way to start a discussion, meaning this is an excellent book for any teacher or librarian looking to have valuable discussions in group settings, and also perfect to talk one on one with your own children. LOVE!
December 12, 2021
Digital ARC provided by Netgalley
More and more people are doing acts of kindness, giving something for another person's happiness, without asking for anything in return. Why? Because they feel fuller and happier when they are altruistic.
Scientific studies have shown that goodness has many emotional and physical benefits. Neuroscience experts say that kindness brings changes in children's brains. A child will never learn what kindness is just by thinking or talking about it. They need to feel it on their skin in order to repeat the act of giving. And this is exactly what this metaphoric story is teaching each of us. Everyone has the superpower of doing good and being kind to others.
More and more people are doing acts of kindness, giving something for another person's happiness, without asking for anything in return. Why? Because they feel fuller and happier when they are altruistic.
Scientific studies have shown that goodness has many emotional and physical benefits. Neuroscience experts say that kindness brings changes in children's brains. A child will never learn what kindness is just by thinking or talking about it. They need to feel it on their skin in order to repeat the act of giving. And this is exactly what this metaphoric story is teaching each of us. Everyone has the superpower of doing good and being kind to others.
November 24, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Purple Butterfly Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be published March 22, 2023.
This is a very cute children’s book. The teacher shows the students that they each have a super power: being kind. But he takes it a step further and through his wacky Kindness Machine invention, he teaches them some concrete ways to be kind, like smiling and complimenting others.
This is a very cute children’s book. The teacher shows the students that they each have a super power: being kind. But he takes it a step further and through his wacky Kindness Machine invention, he teaches them some concrete ways to be kind, like smiling and complimenting others.
January 1, 2022
I received an ARC of The Kindness Machine for an honest review.
I truly enjoyed reading this book. It's such a clever story and the illustrations are beautifully done. This is a fantastic way to begin conversations with children on how to be kind and putting it into practice. Everyone should have a kindness machine!!
I truly enjoyed reading this book. It's such a clever story and the illustrations are beautifully done. This is a fantastic way to begin conversations with children on how to be kind and putting it into practice. Everyone should have a kindness machine!!
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