Kara Mitchell
Catching Kindness
A gentle, effective tool for discussing social dynamics and the tangible impact of kindness in a school setting.
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You've Found Oliver
by Dustin Thao
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2025
A straightforward, honest story about unlikely friendship and neurodivergent representation that doesn't sentimentalize—the dog brings kids together, but they have to do the actual work of understanding each other.
Too good to be true
by Susan Kirby
Middle grade · ages 10–14 · 720L · 1992
A solid, character-driven story about the gap between appearance and reality in friendship—earnest without being preachy, and the protagonist's growth feels earned.
Cross My Heart and Never Lie
by Nora Dåsnes
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2023
A gentle but unflinching look at how kids fracture friendships through carelessness and social pressure, with a protagonist who actually earns her redemption.