WE BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO YOUNG TO SHOW COMPASSION TO OTHERS…
Compassionate actions can be small or HUGE, and are usually welcomed with open arms!
Whether it’s a sharing a hug with a close friend or opening the door for a stranger, we all have the ability to brighten someone’s day with these sincere acts of kindness. By embracing the beauty of everyone around us, appreciating what we have, and remembering to reserve judgement, we can cultivate a sense of compassion for others, especially those less fortunate.
Below you’ll find books, conversation launchers and activities that are appropriate for 6th, 7th and 8th Graders around the concept of “Compassion”.
GREAT BOOKS & CONVOS
Insignificant Events in the Life of A Cactus
By Dusti Bowling
Why We LOVE This Book
Aven’s curiosity, humor, and honesty of being a middle schooler during a challenging time is right on point. Her friendships between Connor and Zion are an inspiration to anyone trying to find himself / herself in this crazy world. The disabilities that Bowling highlights in this novel open the door for education, compassion, and reality for the young and old. This book really encourages the reader to analyze how confident he / she can be when faced with personal life trials.
Conversation Launchers
Out of My Mind
By Sharon M Draper
Why We LOVE This Book
Melody has cerebral palsy and cannot walk, talk, feed, or take care of herself, but can read, think, and feel. Her brilliance is trapped in her body and she is willing to do anything, so others will know. The compassion shown by some characters help Melody with her determination to clear up any misconceptions about disabilities. This compelling and riveting book is told in Melody’s voice and I found myself cheering for her the entire time.
Conversation Launchers
Everything Sad is Untrue (A True Story)
By Daniel Nayeri
Why We LOVE This Book
Khosrou (Everyone calls him Daniel.), an Iranian immigrant, shares tales of his history at an Oklahoman middle school, but many classmates do not exhibit compassion or appreciation for his culture, race, and religion. It is easy to get lost in this beautiful, yet gut-wrenching (at times) book. I found myself laughing and cheering for Daniel and was so glad to know there were some compassionate people in his young life.
Conversation Launchers
Keep the Conversation Going!
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
MORE GREAT READS
Roll With It
Jamie Sumner
Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood
Ibtisam Barakat
I Am Alfonso Jones
Tony Medina
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Resources for OTHER AGE GROUPS
Below you’ll find books and activities that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “Compassion.”
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founder
