One spark of love can change everything. The social media sensation known for his viral “random acts of kindness” videos invites you to discover a bigger, more meaningful existence, one act of generosity at a time.
“This book will leave your heart a little lighter and your eyes a little wider to the needs of those around you.”—Bob Goff, New York Times bestselling author and Sweet Maria’s husband
Jimmy Darts is convinced that the most fun we can have is to spread joy and kindness with no inhibition. He travels to thrift shops, laundromats, street corners, and grocery stores, looking for good Samaritans willing to help a down-on-his-luck stranger—and rewarding them extravagantly when they say yes. “Most of these people have been paying it forward their whole life,” Darts writes, “but no one’s noticed. This is their moment. God notices. And I want to let them know.”
In Undercover Kindness, Darts takes us behind the scenes of his unconventional life—one rooted in friendship with God, and a bold faith that fuels every act of generosity. From blessing strangers to crowdsourcing a helping hand, having adventures, making friends, and learning that the world is a kinder place than we generally believe, Jimmy shows that living by faith isn't just powerful—it’s wildly fun.
Undercover Kindness is just as unconventional as Jimmy Darts himself. With a mix of unforgettable stories, thoughtful reflections, and revelations that go beyond the vignettes shown in his videos, this book will help readers reignite their faith, rekindle their hope in humanity, and discover that a life of generosity can be fun, silly, unexpected, and poignant all at once.
I have loved watching Jimmy Darts's inspiring videos since the first time I stumbled upon him while scrolling social media many years ago. Funny, lighthearted, and often heartbreaking, he is not only making content for his accounts but truly changing so many lives in the process.
Undercover Kindness gives us an up close behind the scenes look at how he started this whole journey and where it's taken him along the way. From high school pranks, to successful YouTube videos, to failed attempts at becoming a successful Amazon reseller, to finding his purpose in life- his faith has always been the driving force behind it all.
Anyone who has watched any of Jimmy's content knows he often prays with those he connects with, but reading this book really showcased his level of faith and the healing journey he has had. It's no surprise his unshakeable faith has led him to where he is today. Undercover Kindness is so inspiring and I loved everything about it. Thank you to Convergent Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
I will admit that I started off my journey with "Undercover Kindness" by Jimmy Darts a bit resistant to its enthusiastic charms. I feared I was giving myself to some self-promoting do-gooder (fully recognizing that some have called me the exact same thing due to my own community work).
Ultimately, Darts's charm won me over.
Darts is a social media sensation known for viral "random acts of kindness." He visits thrift shops, laundromats, street corners, and a myriad of other places in search of unsung good Samaritans willing to help a total stranger. When he finds them, he discovers their stories and often rewards them immensely with kindness in return.
I will confess that on some technicalities, I nearly gave "Undercover Kindness" a 4-star rating. It's the earnest heart of the book that won me over, Darts's faithful spirit infectious and his ability to focus less on himself and more on the ordinary generosity of total strangers that has encouraged me to bump this rating up.
Truthfully, I wanted to know me about how Darts pulls off these simple yet epic episodes. It's clear that he follows a spiritual nudge, a sense of who he wants to approach with a simple ask - for example, entering a thrift store a tough-looking Honduran and asking for a buck to help purchase something desperately "needed." When the man enthusiastic gives, Darts learns his story and eventually crowdsources major surgeries to help the man's son.
But, how did Darts develop that crowdsourcing? While he seems somewhat befuddled himself that so many people show up and give when he presents an offer, there's a great mystery to how Darts has developed this following and how it so consistently shows up time and again.
As someone who has traveled over 6,000 miles by wheelchair offering simple tours of tenderness and kindness, I both get the "mystery" of it all and want to hear more about the actual organizational aspects. In other words, I wanted more.
However, I still loved this book.
A lot.
"Undercover Kindness" is infused with Darts's immense faith and almost childlike sense of wonder about hope, love, kindness, and simply showing up. At times, Darts has shown up for these acts of kindness even when he himself was making very little. He's not some billionaire giving from his excess. He's someone who sacrifices in order to fulfill what seems like a deep calling for his life.
The result is a book about truly saying yes to love, rejecting fear, and embracing the ability we all have to say yes to ordinary, everyday generosity.
I've long believed the vast majority of people are kind and generous. As an adult with significant disabilities, I've long experienced this over and over and over again. I believe it's why I'm alive and thriving in my 50s with spina bifida.
Despite my initial resistance, "Undercover Kindness" won me over with its infectious spirit, generous spirit, and gentle, warm storytelling filled with thoughtful insights and infinite possibilities.
Oh my goodness! When I got the email offering to let me read an advanced copy of a new book, I was intrigued, but not excited. I have read a lot of ‘happiness’ books and didn’t expect to read anything new. But I do enjoy a feel-good story, and I was ready for a light-hearted fun read. (I had just finished two fairly intense books on mental health struggles.). So I started reading, and I read 75% of the book in ONE DAY! I found it so encouraging and inspiring that I just wanted to keep reading. The chapters are short and easy to read and each one contains a story that either made me laugh out loud or shed a tear…or ten. Either way, I finished each chapter wanting more. It took a few days before I could get back to the book, but as expected, I finished it in that second sitting. I am placing my order for a physical copy of this book as soon as I hit ‘send’ on this review. I have already told several people that they need to read it, and have spoken with my Life Group planning team about reading it together when it is available. It is just so good. I highly, highly recommend this book. In fact, I think I’m going to read it again while I still have access to this advanced copy!
OKAY so this book opened my eyes: - God is FUN. - Like fr. - Life with Christ isn’t dull. - He is a God of LAUGHTER, and of honest joy!!! - He wants to be our friend!! - Im in love with this view of God: not a straitlaced religious figure, but the true source of wonder + laughter + love. - He wants to experience His creation WITH me!! - Ministering to others can look like sharing a laugh & being a friend. - My laughter can break walls + build bridges!!! - We must return to our childlike faith!!!!!! - I want generosity to be my natural way of life.
There is so much joy in this book. I love Jimmy Darts.
Could not bring myself to finish this. This quote from Wicked comes to mind: “Was I really seeking good? Or just seeking attention?”
I wish I could remember who recommended this to me, so I could ask them how much the author paid them to promote his book.
This was just a YouTube bro exploiting other people’s kindness and Christianity to promote his own content. I didn’t even make it halfway. It was intolerable. Would not recommend.
I just finished reading Undercover Kindness by Jimmy Darts, and I have to say, it completely warmed my heart. The book is full of real stories showing how small acts of kindness can have such a big impact on people’s lives. I loved how genuine and uplifting the stories were—they really made me think about the power of saying yes to love and choosing generosity over fear.
What I especially appreciated is how relatable it all felt. These aren’t grand, impossible gestures; they’re simple, everyday acts that anyone can do. Reading it left me feeling inspired to be more intentional in spreading kindness in my own life.
The book also carries Darts personal perspective and faith, which adds a nice depth to the message, though I think anyone can connect with the idea of making a difference through simple generosity. Overall, Undercover Kindness is an encouraging, feel-good read that reminded me just how transformative small acts of love and kindness can be.
I absolutely loved this book. It was so thoughtfully done and such an easy, heartfelt read. I loved hearing Jimmy’s story and learning how he came to where he is today. He keeps the focus on Christ throughout, while also making you laugh and even tear up at times. It’s inspiring, real, and full of purpose, a reminder of the good that still exists in the world. Five stars from me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I won a copy of this book in a GoodReads giveaway. First off, I must say that I am not of the generation to follow “influencers”, so I’d never heard of Jimmy Darts. After reading this book I am impressed with what Jimmy has done, and hopes to do with his life. Although his tactics for sharing kindness are so different than my generation, he shares such inspirational stories of the often overlooked kindness of strangers. The best part of Jimmy’s story is his dependence on God, and giving God the glory, instead of taking credit himself. I can’t wait to pass this book along for others in my family to read.
I was already following the author, Jimmy Darts, on Instagram and was well aware of his generosity and inspired by his ability to bring people together in the mission of kindness. I enjoyed getting to know him underneath all that. I'd recommend the book to anyone; it will renew your faith in humanity and hopefully inspire every reader to look upon each other with compassion and strive to make this world a kinder place. After all, we're all in this together.
Don’t read this book unless you want to be preached too the entire time. I thought I was getting a lighthearted book about good acts to serve people and instead I heard about how Jesus “saved” his socks and how Darts himself healed people in India and the US, though there isn’t any footage of that. 😳 Apparently it’s amazing that there are good people making good decisions and helping others *without* asking Jesus for help every step of the way. My act of service is saving people from reading or listening to this book.
This book goes above and beyond than just the truth of what joy and peace and kindness really is when incorporating these divine fruits onto others and within oneself.
You really get to dig into how Jimmy Darts life has changed throughout the years where he has often failed but kept close to faith , to know that as long as you try and fail in the end Gods plan is bigger and better. Giving back to the community is what is most needed right now to show love and kindness to show faith upon them to acknowledge them and show them that what’s given comes from God because he has seen us all struggle , to show that there are truly better days ahead of us.
You never know what’s someone is going through within their days often times people don’t really understand grace , I’m a firm believer in God and his unconditional love for everyone. I know that in the right moment he provides as he sends and touches others hearts to act freely with kindness and no fear. To give without expecting nothing but his love in return.
I met Jimmy Darts and his wife at the California baptizing and they are as genuine and honest as this book. They are filled with the divine fruits of Gods love. So you can only imagine that this book will fill you with so much joy and gratitude .
Furthermore, the book has given beyond significance of kindness and prosperity in others lives and in oneself , the truth of helping others provides joy within them but also in us. To be kind and expect nothing in return is the way of life, to be someone’s miracle in a moment that they are most in need and receive something unexpectedly in a “tough moment” is something beyond special for them as it is for oneself because their story can inspire something within us and themselves to believe that gods love is unconditional and that he sees what you are going through and at his moment he can make it happen by touching the hearts of those near them. I often live with the mindset of “treat others the way you want to be treated” this has guided me throughout my life as a 23 year old whatever I have I give with no regrets because that’s what Jesus has done for us , he gave it all for us so why not continue to be more like Jesus and spread his unconditional love and word .
The book inspires us to become what God wants, he wants us to act on love and kindness and faith. God loves a cheerful giver .
I highly recommend this book it’s more than just a book it’s living in it and acting on it.
Before reading Undercover Kindness, I didn’t know much about Jimmy Darts or his viral videos. The heart of this book; encouraging compassion, generosity, and stepping out of your comfort zone to help others is something I fully agree with. I’m all for raising money for worthy causes and supporting people in need, and I can see how his videos might inspire others to do the same. There is no doubt that he is a kind and inspirational man.
That said, I found myself grappling with a few unresolved questions throughout the book. For example, while it’s called Undercover Kindness, the acts of giving are then broadcast to millions of followers. Is it still 'undercover' when it’s shared across platforms, monetized, and tied to personal branding? Do we need to advertise our good deeds for them to count? Jimmy does talk about many times in his book when he has done random acts of kindness without monetary gain.
I also found myself wondering about the process behind the scenes. What happens if someone doesn’t want their interaction to be posted? Do they still receive the money or help? The book doesn’t explain much about consent, privacy, or the many interactions that probably don’t go to plan. I would’ve appreciated more transparency about interactions with vulnerable people and how often things don’t work, and how those moments are handled with respect. A great deal of time must go into setting up these interactions, and I really wanted a more behind the scenes look.
The tone of the book is very religious, which may resonate deeply with some readers but might be too much for others. While the faith element clearly motivates Jimmy Darts, I would’ve liked more reflection on the ethical complexities of public kindness in a social media age. For example, does this encourage everyday kindness, or just kindness for likes?
Overall, the message is positive and uplifting, and there’s no doubt that people have received life-changing help through his work. But I’m still left wondering; when kindness becomes content, what gets lost in translation? In a world where Jimmy Darts is already all over social media, I find myself thinking, is a book really necessary?
These are my own opinions, and I understand some will disagree. I received a free advanced review copy, and this is my honest review.
It's a wonderful book, though, I have slightly more nuanced view on faith and it's generated compassion. I for once totally believe in a postive framework of things, all essential life happens in the light of essentially good things. This is not a naive viewpoint, it is obvious once we expand our horizon, look at the "bigger picture" distant from immediate emotions, analytically with a slight tint of reason for balance (even though the negative tends to be more persuasive, it is not real). Fear is not the primal truth, Greed has no roots in the ground. In our own complex sophisticated realities, they are nothing but artificial, and artificially intertwined with each other (lack of touch from ground truth creates greed, and a greedy mind is susceptible to fear and this cycle may continue ad infinitum).
Back to good things, which is what life is all about in short, from which the element of truth is derived (it's more than just a matter of convention). In that category, compassion is a wonderful thing. Mostly talked about from the God lens, which is a top-down view. Means different things to different people, Is God compassionate? the ideal of human persona. In this top-down perspective we derive our metric of truths and standard behaviour from our beliefs/faith in a hypothetical ideal, which is to most minds too abstract, a bit controling, and a lot of space for margin of errors (emotions 1: reason 0). Nevertheless, broadly, it signifies a positive attempt at life with an uplifting approach though through abstract means. It is helpful. The compassion for most practical people, then, is a product of bottom up ground lived realities of life (individual -> family -> society and so on). There's no motion without the spectre of love, cooperation is ordinary necessity. The experiential magic of ordinary goodness in life is enough proof for its essential truth. Love is more than a transient state, it's a way of being, it's the only truth. Faith is a beautiful castle built upon it (not the other way round). Fear and Greed on the other hand are a product of complex, sophisticated human existence but nevertheless totally devoid of every ounce of truth despite its gaping persuasion. Love is, it was, and it will forever be the sparkle of dust that lights up our world, stirrs the pot, makes life possible in the empty/void universe. Why is there something rather than nothing!
I want to take a moment to share something personal, because sometimes being open is the first step toward healing. Jimmy Darts inspires me so much the way he shows up for people who are struggling and reminds them that they matter gives me hope when I need it most.
Right now, I’m living in a homeless shelter and preparing for a hysterectomy. It’s not an easy road, and it’s something I never imagined I’d be going through. But life has its twists, and I know this is a step I need to take for my health. I’ve realized that I’m not ready to be a parent right now and that’s okay. One day I will be, and when the time is right, I dream of adopting children and giving them the love and stability I know they deserve.
For now, my focus is on healing and rebuilding my life. After I recover, I plan to get a job, become independent, and stand on my own again. But in this moment, even the smallest help makes such a big difference. Honestly, $200 would help me so much it would cover essentials like keeping my phone on so I don’t lose connection to doctors, job opportunities, and loved ones, as well as basic needs while I recover. It may not seem like much, but to me it would mean stability, peace of mind, and one less worry as I face surgery and try to get back on my feet.
I know this chapter of my life is difficult, but it’s not my whole story. I believe better days are coming, and I won’t stop fighting until I reach them. And whenever I feel like giving up, I think of Jimmy’s kindness how a simple act of generosity can change someone’s entire outlook. That’s the kind of light I hold onto. 💙✨
Done this is my entry
My Instagram is GrandCanon147 it's my dream to become a full time singer 💖 🔥🙌🎉😁🎉
CONTENT -🤬: none -❤️: a kiss on a wedding day, mentions of sex and waiting until marriage -⚠️: none
Jimmy Darts' videos have popped up on my social media pages for a while, and I always enjoy watching them. It really is meaningful to witness someone's life being changed for the better. Lately, his videos have made me tear up every time because they remind me of our shared humanity and how we should do for one what we wish we could do for all. When I saw on one of his videos that he had written a book, I was all in. I was able to get an audiobook from my library super quickly. Jimmy is the narrator for the audiobook, and I recommend that format.
Jimmy's videos aren't overtly religious (he maybe says, "Jesus loves you!" or something like that in some of them, but not all), so I was surprised that this book is. I really enjoyed it, though! It just caught me off guard, but it drove home the quote: "Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary."
It was interesting to learn some of his past and see the ways in which he changed to be a better instrument for Christ, but I also appreciated that acknowledgment that God uses us as individuals. He doesn't need the same instrument over and over again; He needs a variety of tools to do His work.
Jimmy highlights seemingly small miracles (like being led to which person to talk to) and hearing about those reminded me how God is intimately involved in the details of our lives. All in all, this book reminded me how we are all children of God and how it's our responsibility to be Christ's hands here on earth.
Quotes that Stuck Out: -No kind act is unimportant.
Undercover Kindness by Jimmy Darts is more than just a book it’s a reminder that love and generosity are powerful enough to change lives. Jimmy’s stories of ordinary acts of kindness touched me deeply. He shows that you don’t need wealth or status to make a difference; sometimes a smile, a helping hand, or a small gesture of compassion can bring hope to someone in their darkest moment. Reading this book felt personal to me because I am currently in a situation of helplessness, trying to raise funds for urgent medical treatment. At times, fear and despair feel overwhelming, but Jimmy’s message say 'yes to love and no to fear’ gave me strength. It reminded me that sharing my story with honesty is also an act of courage, and that kindness does exist in this world, waiting to meet us when we least expect it. Jimmy’s words are not just inspiring, they are life-giving. For anyone who feels alone, struggling, or searching for hope, this book is like a warm light in the dark. It reminded me that generosity is contagious and that one act of kindness can ripple into miracles. This book is not only about Jimmy’s journey, but about all of us and the belief that love, kindness, and community can carry us through even our hardest battles.
This book is pure heart. If you’ve ever seen Jimmy’s videos where he surprises strangers with acts of kindness, this is the behind-the-scenes peek you didn’t know you needed. It’s uplifting, emotional, and honestly feels like a reminder we all need right now—choose love over fear, and notice the little ways generosity can change lives.
What I loved most? The authenticity. These aren’t just viral stunts; they’re real stories with real people, and Jimmy shares the why behind what he does. His faith is a big part of this book, and while that may not be for everyone, for me it added depth and purpose to the message. It’s short, easy to read, and will make you laugh, tear up, and maybe even rethink how you show up for others.
If I had one critique, it’s that I wanted even more transparency about the process—how do people react off-camera, what happens afterward? And the title “Undercover” made me smile because, well, most of us know Jimmy’s kindness is pretty public!
Overall, this is a feel-good, faith-filled, hope-restoring read. If you need something light that still hits deep, this one’s for you.
Undercover Kindness by Jimmy Darts is a joy-filled journey into the surprising power of everyday generosity.
With infectious enthusiasm, Darts invites us into thrift shops, laundromats, and grocery stores—anywhere ordinary people might say yes to helping someone in need—and rewards them in moments that sparkle with faith, hope, and tenderness.
His stories are both playful and profound, illuminating how a simple, unexpected act of kindness can rekindle belief in humanity and in God’s surprising ways.
Drawing deeply on faith without preaching, he reminds us that living generously isn’t just impactful—it can be wildly fun.
This inspiring collection of personal vignettes and reflections reinforces that even small choices rooted in love have the potential to transform lives—including our own.
Solid, heartwarming, and uplifting, I’m pleased to give this book a 4-star rating.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is such an uplifting read. I actually cried through some of the chapters from how elevated I felt reading about these people's stories. I am not a religious or even overly spiritual person. At least, I wouldn't compare myself to those who really practice it. And I wasn't expecting the connection to church. But it was still a very enjoyable book. I would highly recommend it to anyone who needs a confidence boost. Or everyone who feels like there are more shitty people out there than the good ones. This will restore your faith in humanity! I think it might also be a good read for a teenager, to balance out all the hormone drama in their typical daily lives. And to level out their world view.
This book didn’t just touch me—it changed me. Undercover Kindness reminded me that even in a world that feels rushed, divided, and loud, one quiet act of love can echo louder than hate ever will.
I started reading it because Jimmy Darts mentioned it, but I finished it with tears in my eyes. The stories aren’t just stories—they’re wake-up calls. They reminded me how easy it is to walk past someone who needs a smile, a hand, a moment of grace… and how powerful it is when you don’t.
This isn’t a book you read and forget. It lingers. It makes you question how you’ve been showing up for people—strangers, loved ones, even yourself. And the most beautiful part? It doesn’t ask you to be perfect. Just present. Just kind, even when no one’s looking.
True to his persona, Jimmy’s writing is infectious, fun, and deeply relatable. He successfully argues that a life of faith and generosity isn’t a solemn duty but is, in his words, "wildly fun." The book is structured to pull you into this mindset. It’s part memoir, part ministry, and part practical guide.
He invites readers to look at their own world through the same lens of possibility. How can we crowdsource kindness in our own communities? How can we use our unique skills as a form of generosity? How do we quiet the noise of cynicism to hear the quiet needs of those around us? Undercover Kindness provides the inspirational fuel to ask these questions and start finding your own answers.
Hello. You should read this book. I was captivated by its sentences. Yes to love. To know that you are not alone. That a spark of love changes everything. I understand with all my heart and soul. You know what it feels like when you are burdened by poverty. To see your own and your child's illness. To not be able to pay the debt. To not have a home. To be in pain and pain. Let people pass you by indifferently and in your heart you silently cry out: "Isn't there anyone who can help me? Just one step, one spark is enough. Oh, people! Don't leave me. ) If there was love! If there was kindness. My sorrows are many. But I know that hope is waiting for me somewhere. One day I will reach it. Maybe an earthly angel will come. Maybe...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I picked it up because I enjoy Jimmy Darts’ videos online, but Undercover Kindness goes so much deeper. The stories are heartfelt, funny, and sometimes even tear-jerking, but what really stuck with me is how ordinary the moments are—gas stations, grocery stores, everyday places—and how powerful small acts of kindness can be.
Jimmy’s writing feels authentic, like he’s just sitting with you and sharing what’s on his heart. He doesn’t shy away from talking about faith, but it never feels forced—it feels real. By the time I finished, I found myself looking at people differently, wondering how I could be a little kinder in my own daily life.
If you need a reminder that kindness matters—and that one small act really can change a life—this book is it.
After following Jimmy on social media for several years I was excited to read Undercover Kindness to know more about his story. I’m happy I did! I now better appreciate his level of commitment and spirituality more than ever. Whether you are part of a defined religious community or on your own spiritual life journey, Jimmy offers up many thoughts and quotes to help you stop and think about your own beliefs and relationships. I have several quotes screenshot in my phone that meant a lot to me and made me smile. After seeing the wonderful deeds he has done for so many people, you’ll be happy you have read his backstory. Highly recommend for those who want to pursue kindness and happiness in their own lives.