Written & Illustrated by: Apryl Stott
For Ages: 4-8 years
Language: English
Topics Covered: Nature, BIPOC Protagonists, Animals, Friendship, Kindness.
Summary: Most of you have probably heard my flippant comments about bears in books, because they’re such a popular character, and here’s where I eat my words (and some of these cookies). Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light is a story that follows a little girl named Coco try and help her friend Bear convince the other forest animals that he’s actually quite nice (and an excellent dancer). The pair decide to bake some cookies and craft some lanterns in accordance to an idiom that Coco’s grandmother often said, “When life gets dark as winter’s night, share some kindness, bring some light.” Things don’t go exactly according to plan, but Coco and Bear take things in stride and figure out a way to embody the old saying.
This story is really adorable, and I love Coco’s character. She sees an innate goodness in others and wants to help her friend not be misunderstood. The story is also a lesson about what kindness really means, and can lend itself to larger discussions on intent vs impact. You know I’m always on the lookout for BIPOC protagonists (especially girls!) out in nature, and having an SEL component in the story is an added bonus. Such a cute winter story that has no holiday connotation, I definitely recommend checking out this debut by Apryl Stott and sharing some cookies with friends of your own!
This book was kindly sent by Simon & Schuster, but all opinions are my own!
Author-illustrator Apryl Stott grew up drawing and making delightful creative messes. Her first story, “How to Get Rid of My Baby Sister” was written in third grade. Since then, she has learned how to be kind to her sister and how to clean up after herself. Mostly. She spends her days working in her studio, listening to podcasts, and picking up after her daughter’s delightful creative messes. Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light is her first picture book.