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Random Acts of Kindness

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The true-life tie in to Good Sam, the bestselling novel and Netflix film (coming soon):

A disabled veteran in Oregon opens his front door to find that an anonymous Good Samaritan has left him a brand-new riding mower.

In Oklahoma City, a woman who has just lost her job is amazed when a stranger swoops in and pays for her groceries.

In snowy Boston, warm blankets mysteriously appear on park benches throughout the city with a note: "These blankets are not lost! If you are cold, without shelter, and looking for comfort, then they are for you. Enjoy, and know that you are loved."
The true, inspiring tales in Random Acts of Kindness spotlight ordinary people from age nine to one hundred who have found unique ways to show compassion and make a difference. Some of these stories will warm your heart and make you laugh; others will make you smile; and a few might make you cry--in a good way--with the joy of knowing there is so much goodness and generosity in the world.

From the author of the bestselling novel Good Sam (soon to be a motion picture on Netflix worldwide) and award-winning journalist Rachel Greco, these uplifting stories will fill you with hope and gratitude, restore your spirit, and give you faith in the power of kindness to transform you and the world around you.

210 pages, Paperback

Published March 26, 2019

113 people are currently reading
1255 people want to read

About the author

Dete Meserve

8 books728 followers
Dete Meserve is a best-selling novelist and an award-winning creator and producer of films and television series.

She wrote the screenplay adaptation of her debut novel, Good Sam, and produced it as a feature film for Netflix. (Watch today!)

Inspired by a question posed to readers—"What would you do if you could spend an hour in your past?—" her fifth novel, The Memory Collectors, explores the universal desire to revisit pivotal moments in our lives, whether to reconnect with a loved one, undo a painful mistake, or relive a joyous memory. In this suspenseful and emotional journey, four strangers step back into their pasts only to find themselves trapped in time. A shocking twist forces them to unravel hidden connections between them—uncovering secrets that change everything.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Linda Zagon.
1,681 reviews203 followers
March 27, 2019
Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “Random Acts of Kindness” “Inspiring True Stories” by Dete Meserve and Rachel Greco, March 26, 2019

WOW! WOW! WOW! Kudos to Dete Meserve and Rachel Greco, authors of “Random Acts of Kindness” for this inspirational, emotional, gratifying unique, and amazing collection of “Random Acts of Kindness”. These are short examples of people from all backgrounds, ages, occupations, and talents, who haven given from their hearts, not expecting anything back in return. These acts of kindness start to encourage others to pay it forward, and major positive changes take place. I don’t want to give any spoilers from these inspiring stories. I just want you to know after reading this ARC, I pre-ordered this on Amazon.

As I read each story, I was in tears, actually crying. I was just so touched to realize that there are so many good people wanting to make this world a better place. It was so refreshing to read about people doing good kind and thoughtful deeds, rather than the terrible news that we often hear every day. Also, people who were giving in one way or another felt a sense of purpose and accomplishment that they didn’t feel before. Somehow, being kind encouraged more kindness. “One good deed deserves another.” Being kind become contagious, and that is wonderful!! What a wonderful motivational and inspirational collaboration!!!!

I would highly recommend this inspirational and amazing book to everyone! Both Dete Meserve and Rachel Greco have also provided valuable inspirational quotes. This is a well-written book, with many vivid examples of people helping one another, being compassionate, respectful and kind.
Profile Image for Rebecca Rosenberg.
Author 9 books888 followers
March 27, 2019
A wonderful non-fiction companion to Good Sam, Random Acts of Kindness is a current Chicken Soup for the Soul. Really enjoying these stories-- great solace in tough times. Just bought a bunch to giveaway!
Profile Image for Bette Crosby.
Author 42 books2,188 followers
April 15, 2019
I loved this collection of stories about the better side of human nature. I understand that it was the inspiration for Dete Meserve's novel "Good Sam" and I can see why. This is definitely a "feel good" book that you will find yourself picking up more than once.
Profile Image for Rebecca Rosenberg.
Author 9 books888 followers
April 22, 2019
A wonderful non-fiction companion to Good Sam, Random Acts of Kindness is a current Chicken Soup for the Soul. Really enjoying these stories-- great solace in tough times. Just bought a bunch to give as gifts!
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,896 reviews32 followers
March 21, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness by Dete Meserve and Rachel Greco is a breath of fresh air! We live in a world and society that too often focuses on negative news. This collection of true stories is a refreshing look at ordinary people who saw others in need and stepped forward to meet the need, or who did something to benefit the world and make it better. They did so not for personal gain or recognition, but because it helped others, and was the right, and caring thing to do.

How amazing it would be if each of us would take the time to step out of our self-imposed “bubbles” and performed an act of kindness! Often our actions have much more of an impact than we ever realize, for good or for bad.

Kudos to the authors for bringing us these stories and to the people whose stories of unselfishness they told!

“I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” Maya Angelou

Many thanks to NetGalley and Melrose Hill Publishing for allowing me to read an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions stated here are my own.
Profile Image for Bea Williams.
11 reviews4 followers
March 4, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own*

A group of college students bring a young cancer sufferer a pizza – resulting in a long-lasting friendship...

An elderly woman finds joy in sewing dresses for impoverished children...

A stranger buys a new van for a disabled woman who desperately needs it...

One boy devotes his life to inventing things that other people will find useful, passionate about the idea of improving the world he lives in...

Worldwide, people everywhere give up their time and money in order to help others – simply out of the kindness of their hearts. They are the good Samaritans – the ones who do kind deeds just to improve the lives of others. Day by day, they undertake random acts of kindness, and, in doing so, make the world a better place.


This book was a lovely thing to read. Presented as a selection of short stories, it tells the tales of the people who give up their time in order to bring joy and purpose to others. It holds a wide variety of good deeds – from the kindness people of all ages can show to how many can be inspired by the actions of one. And – though the kindnesses themselves are varied, they all have one thing in common – they change someone else's life for the better.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted” – Aesop

If you feel inspired to do kind things for others, but don't quite know where to start – consider reading this book. It may just inspire you to begin performing your own random acts of kindness, and start to spread a little light to the world around you...
Profile Image for Debbi Smith.
455 reviews6 followers
March 17, 2019
I just finished my copy of Random Acts of Kindness. It was a most amazing book. The stories tug at your heartstrings and will make you feel better much better about the world we live in.
I recommend this book to anyone who is feeling depressed or just needs a pick-me-up. It will do the trick.
14 reviews
March 11, 2019
A collection of real stories of kindness.

I really liked this book and found it inspirational. It is a collection of kindness stories - from a lady that helped more than 250 neglected dogs to a group of three guys that go to the grocery store just to pay the cart of somebody in need.

A light and quick read that will elevate your spirit and encourage you to do some more good.

(Thank you to the publisher for allowing this book to be viewed on NetGallery!)
1,265 reviews28 followers
March 12, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness is a collection of uplifting stories that reminds us that there are some nice people in this world. These stories will remind you that something small you do could make someone's day change in a instant.
Profile Image for Devorah.
36 reviews
February 9, 2019
I loved the stories in this book. The people are so kind and loving. It is hard to read without crying because the stories are so positive. It gave me ideas on how to be a better person and pay attention to what is going on around me. I think that if more of us would become aware of the suffering of others, we might be able to eliminate it.
Profile Image for Liz Butler.
1,437 reviews19 followers
April 9, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness is a collection of uplifting stories that reminds us that there are a whole lot of good people living amongst us in the world. In the midst of the crazy and negative world we live in, it's refreshing to read about people's kind and selfless acts. This is somewhat reminiscent of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books from way back when.

I received an advance ecopy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Patricia (Irishcharmer) Yarian.
364 reviews15 followers
July 2, 2020
Oh my goodness!! Such a good read ( no pun intended)!
You will find yourself reading this more than once I truly believe that! And if you've taken notes (as I do so I can remember books/pages/passages that make an indelible
Impression on me)you'll know exactly which story you wish to reread!! This helps heal the bruises in the year-end is very uplifting!!
And surely we were all taught to be kind to one another-every day! Not just when it suits us.
So grab a warm cuppa, snuggle in and find yourself in the embrace of being kind and compassionate with truly no effort. Enjoy!--P/
Profile Image for Ann T.
423 reviews
July 13, 2019
Thank you Melrose Hill Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC.

Rachel Greco is a journalist who, getting bogged down by all the negative, sad news stories she was immersed in, decided to focus heavily on the positive news stories she found instead,

The result is this wonderful co-authored book of true short stories, all with the common theme of kindness and empathy.

This book will bring smiles, love, awe and tears as you read the amazing things people from all walks of life have done, to help others who are not so fortunate.

How different the news and the world would be if the positive stories where highlighted for the world every day and wars were center d on kindness and empathy.
Profile Image for Camille Maio.
Author 11 books1,219 followers
October 2, 2019
This book is a breath of fresh air amid so much ugliness on the news. What I found particularly moving is that the goodness revealed here comes from ordinary people who did simple things that ended up making big differences. Hope that *everyone* can make the world a better place, spending our energy on that which betters it rather than complains about it. A must-read for anyone who needs a spark of peace and inspiration. (My favorite story has to do with motorcycle bikers.)
Profile Image for Laurie.
1,114 reviews
March 12, 2019
I started reading and couldn't stop! Each chapter is uplifting, heart-felt and will make you remember the "good" in this world!
It is the small moments that bring about happiness to another and kindness will prevail if we continue to encourage it.
Truly a book that you can open and start reading wherever you find yourself in these pages! I believe we should all have a copy of this wonderful story book. Love it!
Profile Image for Miss W Book Reviews.
1,759 reviews149 followers
February 28, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness by Dete Meserve and Rachel Greco is inspiring, emotional .
This book is filled with short stories of people from all backgrounds who have given with the expectation of nothing in return. I was crying at these pay it forward stories.

This is a well written book that will warm your heart and the collaboration between the two authors is fantastic. I especially enjoyed the motivational inspiration quotes provided by the authors.

"Goodness is the only investment that never fails" -- Henry David Thoreau

I highly recommend this highly inspirational, moving book.
Profile Image for Lynda.
74 reviews2 followers
February 26, 2019
What an amazing and inspiring collection of stories to make you feel wonderful! Dete and Rachel have gathered stories of regular people who go out of their way to spread kindness and love. With each story, I was sure that it was my most favorite; but without fail the next story evoked the same emotions!
Not only do I want to start spreading all the same love and goodwill; but I want to buy this book for all my family and friends so they can feell the same sense of hope in this world! Maybe there is more love than hate, or maybe if we all start believing that, it will become a reality!
Profile Image for Bryony Nelson.
178 reviews56 followers
February 21, 2019
This is such a beautiful and needed book. With everything that goes on in the world, especially recently, this will definitely raise your spirits and help you believe in humanity once again.

These stories had me laughing, crying and just feeling proud of the people and their stories. It proves that a lot of us really do take things for granted but that being kind to each other is so important. I hope everyone gets a chance to read this one!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kimberley.
213 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2019
I loved this book I highly recommend a box of tissues as I laughed and cried while reading the stories. There are so many wonderful acts of kindness and paying it forward. I loved each one but the special gift for the disable vet was a special one and the special gifts and friendship for the child with cancer.
Profile Image for Mandy Schwartz.
83 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness is an incredible read! S book filled with feel good stories of people helping animals an each other. This book makes you think about how important it is just to help someone out by just giving them a man up. Highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Susan (The Book Bag).
971 reviews88 followers
August 14, 2023
Random Acts of Kindness should be required reading for everyone. I'm serious! It's packed with uplifting, beautiful, and heartwarming stories showing the goodness of people. It's always a heart-warning thing to read about positivity in our world where there can sometimes be so much negativity.

Over and over, the random acts written about in this book started out as just a small thing, something someone saw to help one other person, or a small group of people. And then that idea blossomed into a movement to help so many others. Sometimes, it only take a small act of kindness to deeply touch one person. And by doing that, you have made the world a better place.

I savored this book and read a few stories each day. I found myself reflecting on the good that was being done by these common, ordinary people—people like you and me. Most of these stories will melt your heart and some will bring on some tears, but they all will lift up your mood and make you want to share some kindness.

I love visiting Dete's Facebook page and reading about the wonderful people who are doing amazing things to help others. It brings a positive, upbeat tone to my day and makes me want to go out and do good.

Join Dete's Facebook page Random Acts of Kindness Book for more positive, uplifting stories.
Profile Image for Jeannie Chambers.
Author 2 books66 followers
July 12, 2020
What a great series of ‘feel good’ stories- JUST what’s needed in today’s world!

One of the best ‘feel good’ books I’ve ever read. I chose to read it in segments as opposed to reading straight through. I found that, especially during the first half of 2020, I NEEDED to read about REAL people doing good.

I ‘preach’ the Golden Rule often, but it takes people walking-the-walk to truly be able to talk-the-talk.
Thank you Dete and Rachel for an awesome, inspiring read.

This ebook was gifted to me (and others) from someone in one of the book groups Im in, and now I plan to pay it forward by gifting to others.
Profile Image for Becca Akins.
1,170 reviews64 followers
April 8, 2019
This book was quick and simple but brought a huge smile to my face. Happiness is what this book exudes. My personal motto comes from the Disney live action Cinderella, “Have Courage and Be Kind” and this book is full of individuals that fully encompass this saying. I am so glad I read this book.

I also wanted to note that I loved the inclusion of famous quotes about kindness at the end of each story.

**I received an E-arc of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affects my rating or review of this book.

Profile Image for Teri.
608 reviews
April 4, 2019
I have absolutely no idea how anyone was capable of writing this book without shedding buckets of tears! I found myself weeping over the beautiful acts of service devoted to making the world simply a better place. These real life Good Sams are nothing short of angels walking among us. Absolutely beautiful and so inspiring.
Profile Image for Debbi Daniels  Hicks.
160 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2022
If you need a hug read this book. Filled with stories that will warm your heart and renew your faith in humanity. This is a great giftable book. Stories are short and enjoyable even for folks who don't enjoy reading books. Inspiration at it's best.
Profile Image for Gina.
580 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley for the ecopy of this book for my Kindle.
The stories are inspirations to anyone who reads this book. There was only one story in the book that I was familiar with, so it was interesting to read so many "acts of kindness" stories.
People from all types of backgrounds and areas throughout our country touch people in need whether it's a physical need or a kind word. This books shows readers that all of us can pay forward or show acts of kindness every day of our lives.
What an uplifting and encouraging read!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,997 reviews162 followers
April 1, 2019
Random Acts of Kindness was a sweet and heartwarming compilation of real life acts of love both given and received. It was uplifting and inspiring, and I teared up several times while reading it. I am already dedicated to committing random acts of kindness, but this book definitely reinforced my principles, and I hope it inspires others to do the same.

I don't want to include any spoilers in my review, but I do have to say that my favorite story was about Lillian Weber, the 100 year old woman who, after the loss of her beloved husband, found a renewed purpose in her life by sewing a dress a day for girls in need for the nonprofit Little Dresses for Africa. Beautiful.

Location: Alabama, California (Long Beach), Florida (Brevard Co), Georgia, Indiana (Greenfield), Iowa (Bettendorf), Massachusetts (Boston), Michigan (Grand Haven and Howell), Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania (Philadelphia), Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, and Canada (King City, Ontario).

I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Alina.
672 reviews4 followers
March 13, 2019
I usually give my reading preference to fiction, but I decided that this year I should give non-fiction books another try, and I am very happy to start with "Randon Acts of Kindness".

This book combines multiple stories from across the US that unites people of different age, ethnicity, and status. And the only factor that unites them is a desire to help others. Each person described in the book has different reasons that pushed them towards their act of kindness. Each story is unique, heartwarming and inspiring.

Every individual act of kindness described in the book reminds the reader that there are good people left in this world who do countless selfless good deeds and motivate us to continue the goodwill.

Thank you NetGalley and Melrose Hill Publisher for a free and advanced copy of this book, and another huge thank you to the authors Dete Meserve and Rachel Grego for sharing these wonderful stories and restoring our faith in humanity.
Profile Image for Sue .
2,029 reviews124 followers
March 3, 2019
I think that everyone needs to have a copy of this book close at hand. That way when you feel all beat up over news stories about the cruelty of people to other people and animals, you can pick this book up and read a few of the wonderful stories about people doing random acts of kindness for strangers. Reading about these acts of kindness will help remind you that there really are fantastic people in this world.

This book is full of inspiring true stories from people of all ages who want to help other people with no expectation of return. It is divided into several sections:
Kindness at Any Age
Finding Purpose Through Kindness
Connecting to Others Through Kindness
Unique Ways of Showing Kindness
Kindness Movements

In each section, there are stories of people doing good deeds that may be very simple but are absolutely amazing. I'd like to tell you about my favorite story but it's impossible because I loved it all. Many of the stories made me cry happy tears over how much of a difference a small act could make.

Read this book - I promise you'll feel better about the state of the world after you do. And maybe, just maybe, you'll think of ways that you can help other people with random acts of kindness.

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lisa G. Hudson.
697 reviews62 followers
March 26, 2019
INSPIRATIONAL!

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS by Dete Meserve & Rachel Greco should be required reading for EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE! We are surrounded and bombarded 24/7 by all the horrific atrocities that place all over the world. Two authors have decided to flip the switch and spread Good News for a change. In a mere 135 pages, they manage to share many inspirational stories of life changing random acts of kindness. As you read, you will be challenged to examine your own life and consider what random act of kindness can you choose to do every single day that could truly change someone’s life forever? You think that’s too daunting of a task, but really it’s not. As you read this wonderful book you’ll realize we all make multiple choices every day that can all impact random acts of kindness. What will you choose?

I was provided an ARC of this book by the author and NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.
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