Theo of Golden is a beautifully written, uplifting story about a gentle soul with a heart full of kindness. Allen Levi has created something truly special in Theo—a character who feels so real, so thoughtful, and so quietly impactful that you can’t help but fall in love with him. As Theo arrives in the small town of Golden, Georgia, and begins returning pencil portraits to their subjects, each interaction sparks meaningful conversations, deep connections, and subtle but powerful changes in the lives of those he meets. The mystery surrounding his past adds a layer of quiet intrigue, but what stays with you most is the warmth of the story and the humanity of the characters. By the end, they feel like friends, and you may even find yourself wanting to be a little more like Theo, more present, more compassionate, and more open-hearted. This is the kind of feel-good book that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
This tender land by William Kent Kruger, is the best book I’ve read in years. I couldn’t put it down. It felt like a Twain or Steinbeck book, covering the depression era and following four kids on an epic journey. The book is so beautifully written, that I now have to go read some of Kruger’s other books. Take the journey, fall in love with the four kids, Albert, Odie, Emmy, and Mose, and prepare to have your emotions jerked all over the place. Yes, your heart will hurt, your emotions will boil, and you will root for and fall in love with the four children on their arduous journey. Here’s a taste of what’s to come: “The tale I’m going to tell is of a summer-long ago. Of killing and kidnapping and children pursued by demons of a thousand names. There will be courage in this story and cowardice. There will be love and betrayal. And, of course, there will be hope. In the end, isn’t that what every good story is about?” Seriously, run do not walk, to your nearest bookstore and grab this book.
1932, Minnesota-the Lincoln School is a pitiless place where hundreds of Native American children, forcibly separated from their parents, are sent to be educated. It is also home to an orphan named Odie O'Banion, a lively boy whose exploits earn him the superintendent's wrath. Forced to flee, he and his brother Albert, their best friend Mose, and a brokenhearted little girl named Emmy steal away in a canoe, heading for the mighty Mississippi and a place to call their own.
Over the course of one unforgettable summer, these four orphans will fly into the unknown and cross paths with others…
When I first started The Correspondent, I found it a bit confusing and had to jot down who was who to keep everything straight. But that didn’t last long, once I settled in, I was hooked. The story centers on Sylvia, a senior woman who was ahead of her time professionally, and whose life unfolds through letters to family, friends, and even film stars, authors, and politicians. Through her correspondence, we see her regrets, kindnesses, heartbreak, health struggles, and moments of joy. At first, I wasn’t sure about the letter-writing format, but it ended up being one of the things I loved most. It’s a fresh, beautifully done way to tell a story. I grew deeply attached to Sylvia and found myself rooting for her and those she loves. I highly recommend this book, just give it a little time in the beginning. It’s absolutely worth it.
In a world often overwhelmed by negativity and division, Kindness Heroes offers something we all need: hope. This uplifting collection shares true stories of everyday people—students, teachers, parents, and neighbors—who saw a need and chose to act, creating powerful ripple effects in their communities. Their stories remind us that goodness is still all around us. Rooted in the legacy of Matt Kurtz, this book was born from grief transformed into generosity through Matt’s Kindness Ripples On. Each story is a reminder that kindness matters, and that even the smallest act can make a difference. This isn’t just their story; it’s an invitation to create your own ripple.
