Reading list

If you are at the library with your children, you may consider for those around 10.

1. "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio A heartwarming novel centers around Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, and the challenges he faces as he navigates school life. The book explores themes of empathy, compassion, and kindness, teaching the importance of understanding others.

2. "The Kindness Quilt" by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace This book tells the story of a group of students who make a quilt to honor acts of kindness. It's a wonderful, gentle story that encourages children to practice kindness and see the positive effects it can have on the world.

3. "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" by Carol McCloud A wonderful book uses the metaphor of a "bucket" to teach children about the importance of being kind, compassionate, and spreading positive energy. It encourages kids to "fill" others' emotional buckets with kind words and actions.

4. "Each Kindness" by Jacqueline Woodson In this story, a girl named Chloe regrets not being kind to a new student named Maya. This book teaches kids the value of kindness, how our actions affect others, and how important it is to seize opportunities for kindness when they arise.

5. "A Little SPOT of Kindness: A Story About Caring for Others" by Diane Alber This is part of the "A Little SPOT" series and focuses on teaching young children the importance of kindness and how small acts of kindness can create a positive ripple effect in the world.

6. "The Invisible Boy" by Trudy Ludwig This book highlights the story of a lonely boy named Brian who feels invisible. The story focuses on the power of inclusion and how small acts of kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life.

7. "What If...?" by Samantha Berger This inspiring story is about a young artist named Samantha who faces setbacks in her creative journey. The book is full of optimism and encourages children to stay positive, no matter the challenges, while remaining compassionate toward others.

8. "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate Told from the perspective of Ivan, a gorilla living in captivity, this novel teaches compassion for animals and others who are treated unfairly. It's an uplifting story about friendship, resilience, and kindness.

9. "How to Fill Your Bucket with Positive Energy" by Carol McCloud A follow-up to "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" this book focuses more on how children can fill their own buckets with positive energy and use their inner strength to share positivity with others.

10. "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein While it's often associated with the themes of selflessness, the story of "The Giving Tree" can also be interpreted as a lesson in compassion and giving without expecting anything in return. It shows how selflessness can create joy and connection.

These books are all secular and focus on the themes of compassion, kindness, and positivity in ways that are relatable for children. They will help inspire young minds to approach the world with empathy and understanding.

For teens -

1. "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas This powerful novel tells the story of Starr Carter, a young Black girl who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend. The book tackles issues of racism, injustice, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. It’s a great read for encouraging empathy, compassion, and the courage to take action for positive change.

2. "Turtles All the Way Down" by John Green John Green’s novel follows Aza Holmes, a teenager who struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The book deals with mental health, self-compassion, and understanding others’ emotional struggles, offering a powerful message about the importance of love and support.

3. "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio (also great for teens) A beautifully written story about Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, navigating life in middle school. The novel highlights the themes of kindness, empathy, and the importance of seeing beyond physical appearance to truly understand others.

4. "The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom" by Don Miguel Ruiz While more of a self-help book, "The Four Agreements" is a great guide for teens to live with positivity, integrity, and compassion. It presents four key principles to help young people understand how to live harmoniously with themselves and others.

5. "I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban" by Malala Yousafzai This inspiring memoir tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, a young girl from Pakistan who fought for the right to education despite incredible adversity. Her story teaches teens about courage, compassion, and the power of standing up for others.

6. "You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero A fun and motivational read that encourages readers to believe in themselves and their ability to create positive change in their lives. It’s filled with practical advice on how to overcome self-doubt, cultivate self-compassion, and embrace a positive mindset.

7. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak Set during World War II, this novel follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany, who finds solace in books. The story is an exploration of human kindness, the power of words, and how love and compassion can persist even in the darkest times.

8. "Becoming" by Michelle Obama A memoir by the former First Lady of the United States is a powerful story about resilience, growth, and compassion. Michelle Obama shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of empathy, kindness, and the power of staying true to oneself.

9. "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown Brene Brown's book explores how embracing vulnerability and imperfection can lead to a more fulfilling and compassionate life. Her insights on self-compassion, authenticity, and connection are deeply relevant for teens navigating their identity and relationships.

10. "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon This novel tells the story of Christopher, a young boy with autism, who tries to solve the mystery of a neighbor's dead dog. The book is a compassionate exploration of how people with different perspectives experience the world, highlighting the importance of empathy, understanding, and connection.

11. "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara Although this novel is emotionally intense and may be more suited for older teens, it explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the deep need for human connection and compassion. It’s a poignant story about friendship and the healing power of empathy.

12. "This Is Where It Ends" by Marieke Nijkamp The novel takes place during a school shooting and is told from the perspectives of four teens. The story emphasizes empathy, the importance of standing up for others, and how acts of kindness and bravery can make a difference in times of crisis.

13. "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown Another great book by Brené Brown, this one explores how embracing vulnerability and taking risks can lead to greater courage, compassion, and connection. It’s a wonderful resource for teens looking to grow emotionally and practice empathy.

14. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky A coming-of-age story about Charlie, a shy and introspective teen, navigating the complexities of high school life. It touches on mental health, self-compassion, and the importance of understanding and supporting others.

15. "Everything, Everything" by Nicola Yoon A contemporary romance about a girl who is allergic to the outside world and her experiences of love and connection. The book explores themes of compassion, overcoming fears, and the importance of living a full life despite challenges.

These books offer teens a mix of inspiration, introspection, and valuable lessons on compassion, kindness, and the importance of a positive mindset

Adults

🌸 Buddhism (Secular & Practical)

1. “Why Buddhism Is True” by Robert Wright– A rational and scientific look at Buddhist ideas like mindfulness and no-self. Psychology meets Eastern wisdom.

2. “Buddhism Without Beliefs” by Stephen Batchelor– Clear, accessible guide for those drawn to Buddhist practice without religious trappings.

3. “The Art of Happiness” by Dalai Lama & Howard Cutler– A compassionate, practical book framed as a dialogue between East and West.

4. “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hanh– Gentle, profound lessons in presence, awareness, and peace.

🏛️ Stoicism (Modern and Accessible)

1. “A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy” by William B. Irvine– A practical manual for applying Stoic resilience and tranquility to modern life.

2. “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman– 366 meditations on wisdom, perseverance, and living with purpose.

3. “How to Be a Stoic” by Massimo Pigliucci– Combines personal narrative, classical texts, and contemporary examples.

📜 Confucianism (Human-Centered Harmony)

1. “Confucianism: A Very Short Introduction” by Daniel K. Gardner– A clear, digestible introduction to Confucian values like benevolence and harmony.

2. “The Analects of Confucius” (translated by D.C. Lau or Edward Slingerland)– Timeless wisdom about virtue, family, and societal respect — best read as reflective quotes.

3. “Confucius Lives Next Door” by T.R. Reid– A Western journalist's perspective on Confucian ethics in modern East Asia; warm, funny, and insightful.

💛 Feel-Good Compassion & Positive Energy

1. “The Book of Joy” by Dalai Lama & Desmond Tutu– Two spiritual titans laugh, share, and explore how to find joy in the face of suffering.

2. “The Power of Kindness” by Piero Ferrucci– Shows how simple acts of compassion transform lives — our own and others.

3. “The Happiness Hypothesis” by Jonathan Haidt– A compelling blend of science, psychology, and ancient wisdom about what really makes us thrive.

4. “Radical Acceptance” by Tara Brach– Buddhist-inspired insights for self-compassion and emotional healing.

5. “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl– A powerful testament to resilience, dignity, and choosing one’s response to life.

🌀 Bonus: Secular Spirituality & Interconnectedness

1. “The More Beautiful World Our Hearts Know Is Possible” by Charles Eisenstein– Hopeful, poetic, and radical — calling for a world built on empathy and unity.

2. “Being Peace” by Thich Nhat Hanh– A soft, powerful book about embodying compassion in every moment.

3. “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer– Merges indigenous wisdom, science, and poetic reverence for the earth. Deeply compassionate and positively charged.