You Never Know

You don’t need someone’s whole story to offer kindness. Behind a smile, a quiet answer, or a difficult school day, a child may carry worries others cannot see. Meet Eli, Maya, Jo, and Sam—four children with imagination, humor, friendships, and hidden struggles. Through heartfelt poetry and warm illustrations, You Never Know: From Hidden Hurts to Open Hearts invites readers to pause before judging, make room for others, and turn compassion into action. For readers carrying hurt themselves, it offers another message: you deserve to be heard, protected, and supported. Written for ages 9–13, this book includes reflection activities, guidance for caring adults, and U.S. support resources. It encourages meaningful conversations at home, in classrooms, and in community groups—without requiring children to share private experiences. Small acts of kindness matter. So does help that follows through.