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The Book of Kindness
The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko is a heartfelt selection of poetic stories for young children, using vivid imagery and simple language to introduce themes of compassion and generosity. Through memorable scenes and characters—like the magical imaginary birds called “kindwings” fluttering around town spreading kindness, and the little girl, whose seeds of kindness turn into a flower—Klopenko helps young readers understand empathy in a relatable way. The book emphasizes family dynamics, presenting universal figures such as “Mommy,” “Daddy,” and “the little girl” or “the little boy” to ensure any child can see themselves reflected in the stories. A key strength is Klopenko’s ability to connect shared themes across different tales. This subtle storytelling approach helps young readers build cognitive skills by recognizing how similar values appear in different contexts. Thoughtful, universal, and filled with warmth, The Book of Kindness offers more than just heartwarming tales; it fosters early learning, empathy, and a growing understanding of kindness in the world around them.
– Chloe Faith Robinson, Literary Editor.
This book of kindness is so lovely! I really enjoyed reading it! I think children and especially adults could learn a lot from reading it. Kindness is something that we don’t have a lot of in the world and this could definitely remind people of that and make them want to be kind and teach their children and friends to be kind. This is an amazing collection of short stories for families! I would recommend this to all of my peers!»
– Brooke Auckerman, Literary critic.
Egor Klopenko's "The Book of Kindness" is a collection of imaginative fables whose poetic simplicity cannot fail to touch your heart. With wonderful illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva, Klopenko's book makes for perfect bedtime reading for children, and its heartwarming message will resonate with readers of any age.
– Joseph McAlhany, Publisher at Leverhill, Research Professor at University of Connecticut.
I first read this hug of a book on a grey winter London day. I could literally feel the warm-fuzz of kindness radiate through my body and it left me with a smile on my face for the whole day. I read a lot of submissions in my line of work, but the simplicity of this one has stayed with me. With its gorgeous illustrations, it would be a pity if this book were simply consigned to children’s shelves. I hope this book lands everywhere that kindness is needed.
– Dr. Abia Afsar-Siddiqui, Managing Director TA-HA Publishers.
I have read this book, and I appreciate the simplicity. I may say that the stories are beautifully crafted and provide some wonderful and powerful messages about love, generosity, and teaching small acts of kindness. It is a great job done by author in creating a book that fosters empathy and warmth, and it's a good book for bedtime reading. Great Job! This collection is not just a simple book but a reminder that kindness, no matter how small it is, can light up the world around us.
– Aberdeen Lewis, Publisher, Author.
In a world where children’s literature often races toward adventure and spectacle, this collection of short stories moves in a different direction—inward, toward the profound simplicity of kindness. As we turn each page of this remarkable anthology, we are struck by how these stories manage to be both gentle whispers and powerful declarations, showing
young readers that the most meaningful adventures might be the ones that occur within our own hearts.
– Chloe Faith Robinson, Literary Editor.
This book of kindness is so lovely! I really enjoyed reading it! I think children and especially adults could learn a lot from reading it. Kindness is something that we don’t have a lot of in the world and this could definitely remind people of that and make them want to be kind and teach their children and friends to be kind. This is an amazing collection of short stories for families! I would recommend this to all of my peers!»
– Brooke Auckerman, Literary critic.
Egor Klopenko's "The Book of Kindness" is a collection of imaginative fables whose poetic simplicity cannot fail to touch your heart. With wonderful illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva, Klopenko's book makes for perfect bedtime reading for children, and its heartwarming message will resonate with readers of any age.
– Joseph McAlhany, Publisher at Leverhill, Research Professor at University of Connecticut.
I first read this hug of a book on a grey winter London day. I could literally feel the warm-fuzz of kindness radiate through my body and it left me with a smile on my face for the whole day. I read a lot of submissions in my line of work, but the simplicity of this one has stayed with me. With its gorgeous illustrations, it would be a pity if this book were simply consigned to children’s shelves. I hope this book lands everywhere that kindness is needed.
– Dr. Abia Afsar-Siddiqui, Managing Director TA-HA Publishers.
I have read this book, and I appreciate the simplicity. I may say that the stories are beautifully crafted and provide some wonderful and powerful messages about love, generosity, and teaching small acts of kindness. It is a great job done by author in creating a book that fosters empathy and warmth, and it's a good book for bedtime reading. Great Job! This collection is not just a simple book but a reminder that kindness, no matter how small it is, can light up the world around us.
– Aberdeen Lewis, Publisher, Author.
In a world where children’s literature often races toward adventure and spectacle, this collection of short stories moves in a different direction—inward, toward the profound simplicity of kindness. As we turn each page of this remarkable anthology, we are struck by how these stories manage to be both gentle whispers and powerful declarations, showing
young readers that the most meaningful adventures might be the ones that occur within our own hearts.
35 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
2 people are currently reading
697 people want to read
About the author
Egor Klopenko
6 books14 followersBooks for children require absolute sincerity and purity. To create something real, you must strip away all that is superfluous, all that is artificial, all that is so common in adult prose. What remains must be only goodness, beauty, joy, light, and love—only the most valuable and important things, only the things you would want to give your children. But this is how books for adults should be written, too…And perhaps, this is just how we should live as well…
As a writer, I’ve realized
That if I’m reaching out through my books,
It should be to children.
Only with them does it make sense to speak sincerely
And of true things,
For they themselves are always sincere
And true.
And when I do write for adults,
I’m speaking only to the childlike spark still within them,
The one that’s stayed with them all along,
The only sincere and true part in them. In us. All of us.
However much we try to hide it from each other.
As a writer, I’ve realized
That if I’m reaching out through my books,
It should be to children.
Only with them does it make sense to speak sincerely
And of true things,
For they themselves are always sincere
And true.
And when I do write for adults,
I’m speaking only to the childlike spark still within them,
The one that’s stayed with them all along,
The only sincere and true part in them. In us. All of us.
However much we try to hide it from each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 30, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Book of Kindness is a beautiful book containing 8 short stories, all containing themes of kindness, compassion, understanding, and generosity. The aim of the book is to nurture and grow compassion, empathy,
and understanding from a young age and for children to discover how much joy and fulfilment these qualities can have as well as make a huge difference to the world and others around them.
The stories are easy to understand and not over complicated, and the illustrations are very much on point with the concept of the book.
This is a great short story collection perfect for bedtimes and classroom storytimes.
The Book of Kindness is a beautiful book containing 8 short stories, all containing themes of kindness, compassion, understanding, and generosity. The aim of the book is to nurture and grow compassion, empathy,
and understanding from a young age and for children to discover how much joy and fulfilment these qualities can have as well as make a huge difference to the world and others around them.
The stories are easy to understand and not over complicated, and the illustrations are very much on point with the concept of the book.
This is a great short story collection perfect for bedtimes and classroom storytimes.
November 9, 2025
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to give my honest review for The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko. First, I found the illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva amazing, the quality is great, the use of color, and the drawings are really lovely! This is a book written in stanzas, because it is a collection of poems intended to teach kindness to young children. However, I think the poems are too long and sometimes complex for the little ones. Of course, we as adults can understand them pretty well, but I'm not sure if it'll be the case for the audience it was written for. Also, in the second poem we find stereotypical roles for the mother and father, which I find odd these days. At the same time, there are some ideas such as "disobedience", that are too archaic and counterproductive for a children's book.
October 24, 2025
'The Book of Kindness' by Egor Klopenko is a warm and uplifting read that reminds us how small gestures can make a big difference in a world often ruled by haste and indifference. Author's writing is simple yet sincere, filled with real-life anecdotes and reflections that inspire compassion and empathy. The book beautifully captures the ripple effect of kindness for how one act can influence more than one life.
Out of all stories, mine favorite ones were "Gift" and "The Kindwings"
😇"Gift" — A story where a child and his family ponder what to give someone and learn that sometimes the most meaningful gift is a simple act, sincere and heartfelt. I believe, there is nothing more important than the empathy when dealing with others.
🐤"The Kindwings" — Imaginary birds called Kindwings flutter around the town, whispering kindness to people who might otherwise feel unnoticed or lonely. We should learn from these innocent creatures for how the life can be a happy one only of we look for such simple acts.
While some sections feel slightly lagging in emphasizing the same moral lessons and were longer in story content than those should be, the overall tone remains heartening and genuine. It’s a book we should revisit whenever our life feels too harsh—a gentle nudge to stay kind, thoughtful and human.
My NetGalley review
Out of all stories, mine favorite ones were "Gift" and "The Kindwings"
😇"Gift" — A story where a child and his family ponder what to give someone and learn that sometimes the most meaningful gift is a simple act, sincere and heartfelt. I believe, there is nothing more important than the empathy when dealing with others.
🐤"The Kindwings" — Imaginary birds called Kindwings flutter around the town, whispering kindness to people who might otherwise feel unnoticed or lonely. We should learn from these innocent creatures for how the life can be a happy one only of we look for such simple acts.
While some sections feel slightly lagging in emphasizing the same moral lessons and were longer in story content than those should be, the overall tone remains heartening and genuine. It’s a book we should revisit whenever our life feels too harsh—a gentle nudge to stay kind, thoughtful and human.
My NetGalley review
June 25, 2025
The Book of Kindness is a heartwarming children's book that encapsulates the themes of kindness, gratitude and compassion. It is a collection of short yet profoundly deep stories where each narrative gives the readers a chance to understand and celebrate kindness.
The author has beautifully explored the magic of kind- heartedness through impressive compliation of sweet stories. I'm sure kids will appreciate the illustrations for their vibrancy and warmth. There are eight short stories in this book that aptly conveys that kindness is to shown and shared. It's a positive mechanism against negativity.
Perfect for cozy bedtime story, this collection will be well loved and appreciated by the curious young minds to cultivate the habit of kindness and humility. I'd highly recommend this book.
The author has beautifully explored the magic of kind- heartedness through impressive compliation of sweet stories. I'm sure kids will appreciate the illustrations for their vibrancy and warmth. There are eight short stories in this book that aptly conveys that kindness is to shown and shared. It's a positive mechanism against negativity.
Perfect for cozy bedtime story, this collection will be well loved and appreciated by the curious young minds to cultivate the habit of kindness and humility. I'd highly recommend this book.
September 2, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
This was a sweet book! I must say, I would not describe myself as an avid reader of poetry, but as a primary school teacher and someone very much enamoured with kindness, I really wanted to give this book a go and Im glad I did. The writing is simple, yet at times also imaginative and beautiful. It's both written in a manner that young children will understand, yet still has so much beauty and meaning behind the words, that will appeal to older readers. As a teacher, I can see this being used as a book to anchor both writing and reading lessons, a study on poetry, as well as lessons surrounding kindness and the human spirit.
Kindness is something that needs to be taught, to be valued and watered and cared for like a flower, so that it can bloom to its full potential. Using flowers, seeds and physical living things as the kindness in a number of the stories, facilitates children understanding that while kindness may be within us already, it needs to be nurtured and cared for to truly thrive and help the whole world. With the turbulent times the world is in right now, I can also see this book used as a way to create conversation around war, famine, attacks, hurtful words and poor treatment from human to human, and even human to animal, especially with the mention of sad and stressed dogs in the book. Children are aware and confident around dogs more than most other animals, so I think bringing in the plight of sad, depressed and possibly harmed dogs in the story will help resonate with their minds even more. They need connection to their own lives to fully understand the meaning behind stories and lessons, so I think this was a smart choice by the author.
I also loved some quotes, one being "Kindness spreads like magic", and it is beautiful in its simplicity. There was no flowery prose that was over the top in this book. The stories were to the point, yet touching and heartfelt at the same time. I will say that the first story was my least favourite. I liked that it said kindness can be lost sometimes and we need to find it again, but not giving the kids something to understand what kindness really is, was a little confusing. We knew it was lost and the girl's family was sad and worried without it, but I felt like this first story needed to be more imaginative, to give the kids something to understand what kindness actually is. I thought the other stories did this really well, though, so I feel like maybe those stories should have gone first. But this is a very small critique.
This was a sweet book! I must say, I would not describe myself as an avid reader of poetry, but as a primary school teacher and someone very much enamoured with kindness, I really wanted to give this book a go and Im glad I did. The writing is simple, yet at times also imaginative and beautiful. It's both written in a manner that young children will understand, yet still has so much beauty and meaning behind the words, that will appeal to older readers. As a teacher, I can see this being used as a book to anchor both writing and reading lessons, a study on poetry, as well as lessons surrounding kindness and the human spirit.
Kindness is something that needs to be taught, to be valued and watered and cared for like a flower, so that it can bloom to its full potential. Using flowers, seeds and physical living things as the kindness in a number of the stories, facilitates children understanding that while kindness may be within us already, it needs to be nurtured and cared for to truly thrive and help the whole world. With the turbulent times the world is in right now, I can also see this book used as a way to create conversation around war, famine, attacks, hurtful words and poor treatment from human to human, and even human to animal, especially with the mention of sad and stressed dogs in the book. Children are aware and confident around dogs more than most other animals, so I think bringing in the plight of sad, depressed and possibly harmed dogs in the story will help resonate with their minds even more. They need connection to their own lives to fully understand the meaning behind stories and lessons, so I think this was a smart choice by the author.
I also loved some quotes, one being "Kindness spreads like magic", and it is beautiful in its simplicity. There was no flowery prose that was over the top in this book. The stories were to the point, yet touching and heartfelt at the same time. I will say that the first story was my least favourite. I liked that it said kindness can be lost sometimes and we need to find it again, but not giving the kids something to understand what kindness really is, was a little confusing. We knew it was lost and the girl's family was sad and worried without it, but I felt like this first story needed to be more imaginative, to give the kids something to understand what kindness actually is. I thought the other stories did this really well, though, so I feel like maybe those stories should have gone first. But this is a very small critique.
December 15, 2025
Four Point Two Stars
A sweet collection of poems that brings out the importance of empathy and compassion and the reading is enhanced by the cute illustrations as the book teaches older children the importance of a kind heart. I especially enjoyed the ‘kindwings’ poem.
Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
Review also found at:
https://ok-readingcorner.blogspot.com...
A sweet collection of poems that brings out the importance of empathy and compassion and the reading is enhanced by the cute illustrations as the book teaches older children the importance of a kind heart. I especially enjoyed the ‘kindwings’ poem.
Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
Review also found at:
https://ok-readingcorner.blogspot.com...
September 2, 2025
This was cute and whimsical in its own way, but many of the vignettes lacked depth for me. The first one especially made little sense. The text often talked around a concept—kindness—rather than just spelling it out. It used countless metaphors and said the word kindness so many times that it began to lose meaning. But when the stories actually illustrated it, such as in the case of the Kindwings, the star, and the little boy who contemplated who was kind, the book shone.
July 10, 2025
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
The book's rhyming scheme is engaging, capturing readers' attention with its melodic quality. The illustrations are vivid and detailed, offering young readers a visual aid to stimulate their imagination as they explore the stories. The narrative emphasizes the importance of connection and communication, particularly in expressing emotions. Discussing feelings, from sadness to happiness, fosters empathy, understanding, and connection, highlighting how activities like drawing or enjoying a meal can evoke positive emotions and a sense of belonging.
The book effectively showcases acts of kindness that young readers can easily emulate, such as offering a hug to someone feeling down or sharing a smile, laugh, or cherished memory with a loved one. It also highlights how seemingly unnoticed aspects of our surroundings, like the stars in the sky, embody kindness by providing light and guidance.
Gift-giving, often associated with holidays, birthdays, or milestones, is also addressed. The book explains that the joy of gifting lies not in the gift itself but in the thoughtfulness behind it, emphasizing the importance of sharing love, kindness, and time while creating meaningful memories.
The narrative demonstrates how encouragement and a single act of kindness can initiate a chain reaction. For instance, a child sharing toys at school may inspire others to do the same, promoting kindness and thoughtfulness. The book reassures readers that while it may feel like kindness is scarce, a single small act can ignite numerous others.
One critique is the repetition of messages, which might cause young readers to lose interest. Additionally, one short story's complexity may challenge readers under five without adult assistance. However, this presents an opportunity for parents, teachers, caregivers, and older siblings to engage with and support young children.
"The Book of Kindness" by Egor Klopenko is an excellent collection of short stories that teaches young readers about the omnipresence of kindness, from the nourishing plants in a garden to the trust and friendship offered by pets. It illustrates how simple gestures like a smile or wave can brighten someone's day. I recommend this book to parents, teachers, caregivers, families, and anyone interested in learning how acts of kindness can spread hope and joy, showing that even a young child or a star in the sky can perform a small act of kindness to enhance someone's day.
Thank you to Egor Klopenko and BookSirens for supplying me with a copy of the book for reading and review in return for an honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own, representing my personal thoughts, reading experience, and reflections on the book.
The book's rhyming scheme is engaging, capturing readers' attention with its melodic quality. The illustrations are vivid and detailed, offering young readers a visual aid to stimulate their imagination as they explore the stories. The narrative emphasizes the importance of connection and communication, particularly in expressing emotions. Discussing feelings, from sadness to happiness, fosters empathy, understanding, and connection, highlighting how activities like drawing or enjoying a meal can evoke positive emotions and a sense of belonging.
The book effectively showcases acts of kindness that young readers can easily emulate, such as offering a hug to someone feeling down or sharing a smile, laugh, or cherished memory with a loved one. It also highlights how seemingly unnoticed aspects of our surroundings, like the stars in the sky, embody kindness by providing light and guidance.
Gift-giving, often associated with holidays, birthdays, or milestones, is also addressed. The book explains that the joy of gifting lies not in the gift itself but in the thoughtfulness behind it, emphasizing the importance of sharing love, kindness, and time while creating meaningful memories.
The narrative demonstrates how encouragement and a single act of kindness can initiate a chain reaction. For instance, a child sharing toys at school may inspire others to do the same, promoting kindness and thoughtfulness. The book reassures readers that while it may feel like kindness is scarce, a single small act can ignite numerous others.
One critique is the repetition of messages, which might cause young readers to lose interest. Additionally, one short story's complexity may challenge readers under five without adult assistance. However, this presents an opportunity for parents, teachers, caregivers, and older siblings to engage with and support young children.
"The Book of Kindness" by Egor Klopenko is an excellent collection of short stories that teaches young readers about the omnipresence of kindness, from the nourishing plants in a garden to the trust and friendship offered by pets. It illustrates how simple gestures like a smile or wave can brighten someone's day. I recommend this book to parents, teachers, caregivers, families, and anyone interested in learning how acts of kindness can spread hope and joy, showing that even a young child or a star in the sky can perform a small act of kindness to enhance someone's day.
Thank you to Egor Klopenko and BookSirens for supplying me with a copy of the book for reading and review in return for an honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own, representing my personal thoughts, reading experience, and reflections on the book.
August 16, 2025
Ohhh I love this!!! It actually reminded me of the movie Pay It Forward, where one small act of kindness creates a butterfly effect that grows and spreads everywhere. This book has that same heartwarming vibe—even though I’m definitely not the target age group, haha, I found myself smiling all the way through.
It’s also the kind of story I can’t wait to share with my baby boy once he’s older, so he can learn beautiful messages in such a fun and memorable way. The illustrations are another huge highlight for me—I loveee them! They’re so bright and beautiful, and they really make the reading journey extra enjoyable. For a child just beginning to discover books, I think the pictures will be fantastic in keeping their attention and making them fall in love with reading.
I enjoyed several of the poems-stories in this collection, but my absolute favorite is “Seed.” The ending completely took me by surprise, and I loved how it showed different people’s definitions of kindness. Some made me smile, others made me teary-eyed, and all of them felt so sincere.
But the part that truly touched me the most is this one:
“Kindness is like my mom,”
Said the boy.
“She’s always with me
And always there for me!”
That line was so simple, but it melted my heart. It’s exactly the kind of message I’d want my child to carry with him as he grows.
Overall, this is such a sweet and meaningful read. Heartwarming, beautifully illustrated, and filled with messages worth sharing—it’s a book I’d recommend to any parent who wants to teach kindness in the gentlest, most memorable way. ♡
It’s also the kind of story I can’t wait to share with my baby boy once he’s older, so he can learn beautiful messages in such a fun and memorable way. The illustrations are another huge highlight for me—I loveee them! They’re so bright and beautiful, and they really make the reading journey extra enjoyable. For a child just beginning to discover books, I think the pictures will be fantastic in keeping their attention and making them fall in love with reading.
I enjoyed several of the poems-stories in this collection, but my absolute favorite is “Seed.” The ending completely took me by surprise, and I loved how it showed different people’s definitions of kindness. Some made me smile, others made me teary-eyed, and all of them felt so sincere.
But the part that truly touched me the most is this one:
“Kindness is like my mom,”
Said the boy.
“She’s always with me
And always there for me!”
That line was so simple, but it melted my heart. It’s exactly the kind of message I’d want my child to carry with him as he grows.
Overall, this is such a sweet and meaningful read. Heartwarming, beautifully illustrated, and filled with messages worth sharing—it’s a book I’d recommend to any parent who wants to teach kindness in the gentlest, most memorable way. ♡
August 16, 2025
Thank you to Egor Klopenko and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book was such a sweet and refreshing experience. This collection of poetic stories invites children (and their parents) to pause and reflect on what it truly means to be kind.
Each tale uses simple yet vivid imagery—like the magical “kindwings” who spread kindness across town or the little girl whose seeds of kindness bloom into flowers—to illustrate empathy, generosity, and love in ways young readers can easily grasp. The language is gentle and approachable, making it a wonderful option for read-aloud moments with children.
I read this book with my girls, and we all enjoyed it together. While it’s different from the stories we typically pick up, they were drawn in by the rhythm and the warmth behind each poem. The illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva add a soft beauty that pairs perfectly with the text, helping bring the messages to life.
What stood out to me most is how universal these stories feel. The characters—“Mommy,” “Daddy,” “the little boy,” “the little girl”—make it easy for any child to see themselves reflected. And as a parent, I appreciated how the themes opened space for conversations about how we can practice kindness in our own home and community.
Overall, The Book of Kindness is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. It’s not only a lovely bedtime read but also a gentle reminder, for children and adults alike, that even the smallest acts of kindness can brighten the world around us.
Each tale uses simple yet vivid imagery—like the magical “kindwings” who spread kindness across town or the little girl whose seeds of kindness bloom into flowers—to illustrate empathy, generosity, and love in ways young readers can easily grasp. The language is gentle and approachable, making it a wonderful option for read-aloud moments with children.
I read this book with my girls, and we all enjoyed it together. While it’s different from the stories we typically pick up, they were drawn in by the rhythm and the warmth behind each poem. The illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva add a soft beauty that pairs perfectly with the text, helping bring the messages to life.
What stood out to me most is how universal these stories feel. The characters—“Mommy,” “Daddy,” “the little boy,” “the little girl”—make it easy for any child to see themselves reflected. And as a parent, I appreciated how the themes opened space for conversations about how we can practice kindness in our own home and community.
Overall, The Book of Kindness is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. It’s not only a lovely bedtime read but also a gentle reminder, for children and adults alike, that even the smallest acts of kindness can brighten the world around us.
December 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
The illustrations in this book were absolutely beautiful, especially the more fantasy-like ones such as the little boy riding the whale. The stories themselves were also quite lovely, though they were a little long to be poems.
I... find it kind of odd in a book about kindness that the "Kindwings" tell a little girl who disobeyed her father that it's okay because they know she won't do it again. I don't think that's very kind, actually.
I also would have liked for there to be any representation at all in the drawings and stories. It's a book about kindness, and yet every single family portrayed is the stereotypical mother-father-child one, they are all white (even the little neanderthal boy is very light-skinned and blond! like, what?), there are no disabled people featured at all, and they all seem to be living a pretty comfortable middle-class life. Of course, kindness is good also when it is towards privileged people, but I would really have appreciated if there had been any mention at all of the fact that there are people who live in ways that are not socially sanctioned, and that these people often need kindness more than anyone, as society is not very willing to give it to them. A missed opportunity and a real pity that this was not touched upon at all. Like, why can we feature homeless dogs, but we cannot feature disabled people or homeless people?
The illustrations in this book were absolutely beautiful, especially the more fantasy-like ones such as the little boy riding the whale. The stories themselves were also quite lovely, though they were a little long to be poems.
I... find it kind of odd in a book about kindness that the "Kindwings" tell a little girl who disobeyed her father that it's okay because they know she won't do it again. I don't think that's very kind, actually.
I also would have liked for there to be any representation at all in the drawings and stories. It's a book about kindness, and yet every single family portrayed is the stereotypical mother-father-child one, they are all white (even the little neanderthal boy is very light-skinned and blond! like, what?), there are no disabled people featured at all, and they all seem to be living a pretty comfortable middle-class life. Of course, kindness is good also when it is towards privileged people, but I would really have appreciated if there had been any mention at all of the fact that there are people who live in ways that are not socially sanctioned, and that these people often need kindness more than anyone, as society is not very willing to give it to them. A missed opportunity and a real pity that this was not touched upon at all. Like, why can we feature homeless dogs, but we cannot feature disabled people or homeless people?
June 18, 2025
This is such a heartwarming and meaningful book! I really admired the author's idea to make a book that is exclusively about kindness and the act of being kind to others. It's so important for little kids to learn about the importance of kindness from a young age because the world needs coming generations that will make positive changes in our world.
Additionally, the illustrations in this book were absolutely stunning, and helped to convey the beautiful message effortlessly. The illustrator's use of lighter, gentler colors was a smart decision, and the amount of detail included on each page was very impressive.
Lastly, I enjoyed seeing this book be written in a poetic style, rather than in paragraph form. This makes it a bit easier for little kids to absorb and understand, but it also adds to the artistic appeal of this book.
Amazing book; bravo!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Additionally, the illustrations in this book were absolutely stunning, and helped to convey the beautiful message effortlessly. The illustrator's use of lighter, gentler colors was a smart decision, and the amount of detail included on each page was very impressive.
Lastly, I enjoyed seeing this book be written in a poetic style, rather than in paragraph form. This makes it a bit easier for little kids to absorb and understand, but it also adds to the artistic appeal of this book.
Amazing book; bravo!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 25, 2025
This is the first book in the series of 'The World of Kindness", but can be read and enjoyed separately. I loved this amazing collection of short stories, which explains kindness in simple words with multiple examples.
This is a good bedtime read for kids, especially those aged above 5 years. We need kindness in this world to reduce mental health issues and make our Earth a better place for our future generation.
I love the way the author explains different ways of showing kindness, lifting up others, and making others cheerful. The illustrations are excellent. Beautiful pictures show every act of kindness so that it's easy for kids to imagine how a kind world would be. The narrative is easy-going and simple. The book cover is good, but not as good as the illustrations inside.
I would definitely recommend this book as a gift option for kids aged 5 to 10 years.
My Rating: 5/5
PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a good bedtime read for kids, especially those aged above 5 years. We need kindness in this world to reduce mental health issues and make our Earth a better place for our future generation.
I love the way the author explains different ways of showing kindness, lifting up others, and making others cheerful. The illustrations are excellent. Beautiful pictures show every act of kindness so that it's easy for kids to imagine how a kind world would be. The narrative is easy-going and simple. The book cover is good, but not as good as the illustrations inside.
I would definitely recommend this book as a gift option for kids aged 5 to 10 years.
My Rating: 5/5
PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 9, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Book of Kindness is a beautiful book containing 8 short stories, all containing themes of kindness, compassion, understanding, and generosity. The aim of the book is to nurture and grow compassion, empathy,
and understanding from a young age and for children to discover how much joy and fulfilment these qualities can have as well as make a huge difference to the world and others around them.
The stories are easy to understand and not over complicated, and the illustrations are very much on point with the concept of the book.
This is a great short story collection perfect for bedtimes and classroom storytimes.
Such a warm hug of kindness from the author to ll of us so Cozy and warm
The Book of Kindness is a beautiful book containing 8 short stories, all containing themes of kindness, compassion, understanding, and generosity. The aim of the book is to nurture and grow compassion, empathy,
and understanding from a young age and for children to discover how much joy and fulfilment these qualities can have as well as make a huge difference to the world and others around them.
The stories are easy to understand and not over complicated, and the illustrations are very much on point with the concept of the book.
This is a great short story collection perfect for bedtimes and classroom storytimes.
Such a warm hug of kindness from the author to ll of us so Cozy and warm
August 7, 2025
The Book of Kindness (Kindle Edition)
by Egor Klopenko
A poetic look at kindness the different types and how they are spread. Each poem does a different view and sets up the meaning of kindness has different ideals.
by Egor Klopenko
A poetic look at kindness the different types and how they are spread. Each poem does a different view and sets up the meaning of kindness has different ideals.
December 26, 2025
A collection of short stories about kindness, helping others, and spreading positive values.
Great to introduce kids to empathy, compassion, and kindness.
Easy to read and contains beautiful illustrations.
Great to introduce kids to empathy, compassion, and kindness.
Easy to read and contains beautiful illustrations.
August 1, 2025
Great read
July 10, 2025
I liked these cute poems on kindness. It gives great examples of how easy it is to be kind and shows what happens after being kind. One of the poems I felt was more of teaching kids to mask feelings and emotions. I interpreted it as, children should not speak of unhappy moments because they'll become sad again. They remind the child of how it didn't feel good to be sad. I might be way off and hopefully I am.
May 13, 2025
Egor Klopenko’s The Book of Kindness is a warm, thoughtful collection of short stories that gently teaches children the value of empathy and doing good. With simple language and clear messages, it's a great tool for parents and teachers to spark conversations about kindness.
While the stories are sweet and sincere, they may feel a bit repetitive or overly moralistic for older readers. Still, its heart is in the right place, and it delivers on its purpose. Beautiful illustrations.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While the stories are sweet and sincere, they may feel a bit repetitive or overly moralistic for older readers. Still, its heart is in the right place, and it delivers on its purpose. Beautiful illustrations.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2025
I found the poems to be lovely and well crafted. They evoke images of kindness mixed with fable and myth. The illustrations fit well with the poetry’s style. Children between 3 and 8 are most likely to enjoy this book, but adults looking for kindness may also enjoy it too. The world certainly can always use more kindness.
July 19, 2025
Looking for a longer picture book that is written in a lyrical way and treats readers like their aren’t too young to understand bigger concepts?
Egor Klopenko has done just that. His books are sweet and have great messages but are also fun. The illustrations are a cutesy style that fit just right with the books. I preferred The Book of Kindness although there is mention of kindness in The Great Magician too.
The picture books contain a few stories each in them. I love The Gift from The Book of Kindness. If you need a story to encourage your children to do nice things for each other more, that story will help.
Overall my children are a bit old for these books but they would be a nice addition to a home library for those with kids 4-9.
Egor Klopenko has done just that. His books are sweet and have great messages but are also fun. The illustrations are a cutesy style that fit just right with the books. I preferred The Book of Kindness although there is mention of kindness in The Great Magician too.
The picture books contain a few stories each in them. I love The Gift from The Book of Kindness. If you need a story to encourage your children to do nice things for each other more, that story will help.
Overall my children are a bit old for these books but they would be a nice addition to a home library for those with kids 4-9.
August 22, 2025
This is a lovely collection of poems, centred around the theme of kindness. You can feel the authors warmth and earnestness in the writing which made for a cosy and gentle read.
I would note that some of the poems are quite lengthy and wordy, which may be a bit harder for younger readers. They are likely best read out loud, with a discussion to ensure that the message of the story has been understood. Our favourites were The Star and Kindwings, which held lovely metaphors.
The illustrations are smooth and colourful, and help draw the story off the page. They capture the emotion of each poem, and we loved the colourful birds.
Overall this is a thoughtful story, with strong messages of empathy, compassion and care.
Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
I would note that some of the poems are quite lengthy and wordy, which may be a bit harder for younger readers. They are likely best read out loud, with a discussion to ensure that the message of the story has been understood. Our favourites were The Star and Kindwings, which held lovely metaphors.
The illustrations are smooth and colourful, and help draw the story off the page. They capture the emotion of each poem, and we loved the colourful birds.
Overall this is a thoughtful story, with strong messages of empathy, compassion and care.
Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
May 25, 2025
Teaching kindness to children is essential for their personal development and for fostering a compassionate society.
By prioritizing kindness in education and daily life, we equip children with the tools to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to the world around them.
Teach your children poetry; it opens the mind, lends grace to wisdom, and makes the heroic virtues hereditary. – Walter Scott.
Following the statement, the author, with great care and caution, presents a story of kindness to children through poetry. Introducing poetry via a story is a commendable effort as it requires both strong diction and plot.
This book - THE BOOK OF KINDNESS BY Egor Klopenko, features 8 chapters across 36 pages, presenting the complete story in a poetic form. It includes illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva and is translated by Alena Slepova
Egor Klopenko is a Russian writer, an independent artist, and the founder of a theatre in St. Petersburg.
The author in this book initially explains what matters most, what he thinks to write, and how to write for children and then slowly creeps into the serene world of kindness. He seamlessly introduces kindness as a member of the family, highlighting its positive impact when present and the void it leaves when absent.
Next, the author delves into children's dreams, pondering who embodies the greatest kindness—the dog, the elephant, the whale, the forest, or his family members. These reflections are truly childlike and resonate deeply with young hearts. It's a touching and accessible way to impart lessons, making it easy for children to understand.
In the subsequent chapters, 'Star' highlights the kindness that nature bestows upon humanity. Following this, 'Gift' portrays a young boy's act of kindness toward his mother. Each segment of the book exemplifies the author's masterful storytelling, all aimed at resonating with children.
Chapters like 'The Kind Wings' and 'Seed' are innovative in introducing kindness to children. The author is immensely successful in conveying the theme of kindness to children through completely new ideas, methods, presentation, and a whole new set of ways to impart kindness in the lives of Gen Alpha.
Finally, the book answers WHAT IS KINDNESS? In a simple yet subtle way, covering various walks of life and leaves a lasting impact.
Over all the book urges that Kindness is a valuable trait that benefits both individuals and society as a whole. It fosters positive relationships, improves mental health, and creates a more harmonious world. By practicing kindness, you can make a positive impact on yourself and those around you.
Here are few lines that make you realise why kindness matters the most:
If my children grow up to be
Nothing but brave and kind
I will consider them a smashing success
Because while beauty and wealth are often coveted
And intelligence respected
Most of the atrocities in this world
Could have been prevented
If more people were simply
Brave and kind.
DO gift your children a copy of the book. It will definitely be a nurturing step in your parenting.
By prioritizing kindness in education and daily life, we equip children with the tools to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to the world around them.
Teach your children poetry; it opens the mind, lends grace to wisdom, and makes the heroic virtues hereditary. – Walter Scott.
Following the statement, the author, with great care and caution, presents a story of kindness to children through poetry. Introducing poetry via a story is a commendable effort as it requires both strong diction and plot.
This book - THE BOOK OF KINDNESS BY Egor Klopenko, features 8 chapters across 36 pages, presenting the complete story in a poetic form. It includes illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva and is translated by Alena Slepova
Egor Klopenko is a Russian writer, an independent artist, and the founder of a theatre in St. Petersburg.
The author in this book initially explains what matters most, what he thinks to write, and how to write for children and then slowly creeps into the serene world of kindness. He seamlessly introduces kindness as a member of the family, highlighting its positive impact when present and the void it leaves when absent.
Next, the author delves into children's dreams, pondering who embodies the greatest kindness—the dog, the elephant, the whale, the forest, or his family members. These reflections are truly childlike and resonate deeply with young hearts. It's a touching and accessible way to impart lessons, making it easy for children to understand.
In the subsequent chapters, 'Star' highlights the kindness that nature bestows upon humanity. Following this, 'Gift' portrays a young boy's act of kindness toward his mother. Each segment of the book exemplifies the author's masterful storytelling, all aimed at resonating with children.
Chapters like 'The Kind Wings' and 'Seed' are innovative in introducing kindness to children. The author is immensely successful in conveying the theme of kindness to children through completely new ideas, methods, presentation, and a whole new set of ways to impart kindness in the lives of Gen Alpha.
Finally, the book answers WHAT IS KINDNESS? In a simple yet subtle way, covering various walks of life and leaves a lasting impact.
Over all the book urges that Kindness is a valuable trait that benefits both individuals and society as a whole. It fosters positive relationships, improves mental health, and creates a more harmonious world. By practicing kindness, you can make a positive impact on yourself and those around you.
Here are few lines that make you realise why kindness matters the most:
If my children grow up to be
Nothing but brave and kind
I will consider them a smashing success
Because while beauty and wealth are often coveted
And intelligence respected
Most of the atrocities in this world
Could have been prevented
If more people were simply
Brave and kind.
DO gift your children a copy of the book. It will definitely be a nurturing step in your parenting.
August 21, 2025
📚 ARC Review: The Book of Kindness
Writer & Publisher (Indie Book): Egor Klopenko
İllustrator: Ksenia Panteleeva
Publication Date: 8th April of 2025 (aka already published!! 🥳)
💚 First of all, I loved this book 😍! Would definitely get back and re-read. I would highly recommend, especially, primary school kids to read The Book of Kindness. Also, adults can very much enjoy reading it as well, just like the author says in the first poem of the book. Plus, the illustrations were so beautiful that I could spend hours looking at them✨️.
🎁 Here is one of my favourite quotes:
"One day, Mommy was sad...
He searched something worthy to give."
From the chapter: Gift
📜 Descriptive Summary: The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko is a heartfelt selection of poetic stories for young children, using vivid imagery and simple language to introduce themes of compassion and generosity. Through memorable scenes and characters—like the magical imaginary birds called “kindwings” fluttering around town spreading kindness, and the little girl, whose seeds of kindness turn into a flower—Klopenko helps young readers understand empathy in a relatable way. The book emphasizes family dynamics, presenting universal figures such as “Mommy,” “Daddy,” and “the little girl” or “the little boy” to ensure any child can see themselves reflected in the stories. A key strength is Klopenko’s ability to connect shared themes across different tales. This subtle storytelling approach helps young readers build cognitive skills by recognizing how similar values appear in different contexts. Thoughtful, universal, and filled with warmth, The Book of Kindness offers more than just heartwarming tales; it fosters early learning, empathy, and a growing understanding of kindness in the world around them.
■Thanks to Mr Klopenko and NetGalley for the ARC.
#arcreview #arcreader #netgalley #netgalleyarc #primaryschoolbooks #elementaryschoolbooks #middleschoolbooks #kindergartenbooks #mustread #childrenspicturebooks #middlegradebooks #childrensfiction #bookreview #childrensbook #poetrybook #childrenspoetry #kindness #emotionsforkids #egorklopenko #illustratedbook #indiebook #indiepublished #fatherhood
June 26, 2025
What is the most important thing of all? Who is the kindest person in the world? And how can we share the marvelous gift of kindness with others? All these questions and more await you, as you enter a world of whimsical wonder!
“The Book of Kindness” by Egor Klopenko is a collection of short stories all about the magic of kindness. Illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva are bright and full of childhood charm, while each lovely story guides you on an adventure in caring for the world around us. Each tale is the perfect size for reading before bed, and is filled to the brim with love and smiles. Each story is full of magical charm, and gives a gentle and powerful message of sharing kindness in your own life. Whether it’s sharing a toy, encouraging a friend, or guiding a traveler’s way, there are hundreds of ways to show you care right where you are.
Familiar as a summer breeze, and comforting as a warm hug, this flawless children’s storybook shows the importance of kindness in our lives. Earning five out of five stars for its beautiful and gentle message of compassion, friendship, and love, this tale is suitable for all ages and readers. Whether you’re a little one learning to read on your own, or an adult like me finding yourself whisked away to happy childhood memories, this is a book of pure delight that warms the heart and comforts the soul.
I received a free review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“The Book of Kindness” by Egor Klopenko is a collection of short stories all about the magic of kindness. Illustrations by Ksenia Panteleeva are bright and full of childhood charm, while each lovely story guides you on an adventure in caring for the world around us. Each tale is the perfect size for reading before bed, and is filled to the brim with love and smiles. Each story is full of magical charm, and gives a gentle and powerful message of sharing kindness in your own life. Whether it’s sharing a toy, encouraging a friend, or guiding a traveler’s way, there are hundreds of ways to show you care right where you are.
Familiar as a summer breeze, and comforting as a warm hug, this flawless children’s storybook shows the importance of kindness in our lives. Earning five out of five stars for its beautiful and gentle message of compassion, friendship, and love, this tale is suitable for all ages and readers. Whether you’re a little one learning to read on your own, or an adult like me finding yourself whisked away to happy childhood memories, this is a book of pure delight that warms the heart and comforts the soul.
I received a free review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2025
The Book of Kindness completely changed the way I look at children’s books. I’ve always considered myself very picky when it comes to literature, and truthfully, I often find children’s books to be underwhelming—even when I was a child myself. But this one surprised me in the best way. From the very first page, I could feel the heart behind this work. The loving words, the beautiful visuals, and the inspiring message all come together in a simplicity that is both accessible to children and deeply moving for adults. It takes real skill to transform the heaviness of life’s trials into something so hopeful, and this book does exactly that. Every poem is beautifully written, but the poem "Seed" resonated with me most. It reminded me of my younger self—the potential she carried, the dreams she held—and gently reminded me to celebrate the milestones I’ve already reached. It even brought me close to tears. I can see myself enjoying this book with my nieces and nephews, but I also know I’ll return to it when my own inner child needs some comfort. In today’s turbulent world, The Book of Kindness is more than a children’s book—it’s a source of reassurance for readers of any age.
August 4, 2025
The Book of Kindness is a sweet, poetic collection of short stories that gently teaches young children about compassion, generosity, and empathy. Egor Klopenko uses vivid imagery—like magical “kindwings” fluttering through town and a little girl whose seeds of kindness bloom into a flower—to make abstract ideas feel tangible and relatable.
The universal characters—“Mommy,” “Daddy,” “the little boy,” “the little girl”—allow any child to see themselves in the stories, while recurring themes connect the tales into a cohesive and thoughtful whole. It’s the kind of book that encourages reflection rather than rushing to the next big adventure, showing that the most important journeys often happen in our own hearts.
The artwork is beautiful and adds a tender touch to the storytelling. While some font sizes and passage lengths might be challenging for early independent readers, this makes an ideal bedtime read for parents and children to enjoy together. A warm, caring collection that plants seeds of empathy from the very first page.
The universal characters—“Mommy,” “Daddy,” “the little boy,” “the little girl”—allow any child to see themselves in the stories, while recurring themes connect the tales into a cohesive and thoughtful whole. It’s the kind of book that encourages reflection rather than rushing to the next big adventure, showing that the most important journeys often happen in our own hearts.
The artwork is beautiful and adds a tender touch to the storytelling. While some font sizes and passage lengths might be challenging for early independent readers, this makes an ideal bedtime read for parents and children to enjoy together. A warm, caring collection that plants seeds of empathy from the very first page.
August 8, 2025
The Book of Kindness is surprisingly one of the most eye opening books I've read recently. Suitable for both children and adults, it's a fluffy family and school read as well as an excellent reminder of a small concept so overlooked: Kindness. The author did a brilliant job of showcasing our friend Kindness (yes, the noun) to be so much more than what we perceive it to be. Through small poems of gift giving and family and even a seed, the enormity of kindness was thoroughly explored.
The illustrations only added to the effect, imposing with its creativity and colours. My only concern was that whilst the repetitive theme was necessary, it may bore children who read it and lose interest. Some stories in particular are slightly more complicated to understand and children would need assistance. Again, this feature also makes it family and classroom friendly as it encourages the book to be read together.
Overall, this book has received a 4 stars from myself, I would recommend it to my own class, as well as family. Thank you, Egor Klopenko, for this beautiful reminder.
The illustrations only added to the effect, imposing with its creativity and colours. My only concern was that whilst the repetitive theme was necessary, it may bore children who read it and lose interest. Some stories in particular are slightly more complicated to understand and children would need assistance. Again, this feature also makes it family and classroom friendly as it encourages the book to be read together.
Overall, this book has received a 4 stars from myself, I would recommend it to my own class, as well as family. Thank you, Egor Klopenko, for this beautiful reminder.
October 16, 2025
The world can feel very heavy at times. It can feel dark and scary and depressing; it can make us believe that there is no hope anywhere, no love or joy or kindness that can defeat this darkness. But this beautifully rendered book reminds us that it isn't true, that we ARE kindness, and that we have the power to share it with others. My favorites in this collection were "Kindwings" and "Seed," and I especially loved the notion that kindness is something that strengthens and grows as we share it. This is a book not just for children but for everyone. It's for teenagers navigating the perils of peer pressure; it's for bone-weary adults tired of feeling like they don't matter; it's for seniors who feel as if the world is passing them by. Much like any other muscle, kindness is something we all have: We just have to use it. Every day, as much as we can, in big gestures and tiny ones. That's how we will make a difference, at every stage of our lives.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2025
Children's books always have so much to teach.
And never more so than in this case, this statement is true. With sweetness, love, and simple yet powerful drawings, the book accompanies adults and children to rediscover the subtle thread that keeps all living (and non-living) beings interconnected, creating a network in which everything cooperates for the victory of kindness over sadness and loneliness. It doesn't take much, just a trained gaze, a small, sincere gesture, to transform a person's day, or even their life. The fact that acts of kindness don't have to be spectacular, contrary to what is sometimes believed, makes children aware of their power. They too can be a hero of kindness! Just like each of us!
These stories are a warm embrace, perfect for when we feel small and helpless. Because no one is truly small and helpless when they manage to cooperate within the network of kindness, thus finding their place in the world.
Kindness will save the world
And never more so than in this case, this statement is true. With sweetness, love, and simple yet powerful drawings, the book accompanies adults and children to rediscover the subtle thread that keeps all living (and non-living) beings interconnected, creating a network in which everything cooperates for the victory of kindness over sadness and loneliness. It doesn't take much, just a trained gaze, a small, sincere gesture, to transform a person's day, or even their life. The fact that acts of kindness don't have to be spectacular, contrary to what is sometimes believed, makes children aware of their power. They too can be a hero of kindness! Just like each of us!
These stories are a warm embrace, perfect for when we feel small and helpless. Because no one is truly small and helpless when they manage to cooperate within the network of kindness, thus finding their place in the world.
Kindness will save the world
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