by Joy Vee
Looking for picture books about kindness that teach gratitude and faith?
When Benaiah discovers a tree marked with a mysterious red line, he’s convinced it has magical powers – especially after he picks up a leaf and suddenly becomes “super kind” at school. But when the tree is cut down, will the kindness disappear too? This heartwarming Christian picture book teaches children that true kindness doesn’t come from magic—it flows from grateful hearts that recognise God’s goodness all around them.
Benaiah and the Kindness Tree is one of those rare children’s books about kindness that goes deeper than simply listing nice things to do. Through Benaiah’s journey from believing in a magic leaf to discovering kindness already lives inside him, young readers learn that gratitude for God’s creation is the wellspring of genuine compassion. Perfect for families wanting Christian picture books that teach character alongside faith.
Who is Benaiah and the Kindness Tree written for?
This beautifully illustrated picture book is perfect for children ages 3-6 who are learning about kindness, empathy, and gratitude. It’s ideal for parents, grandparents, and teachers looking for Christian picture books that teach values without being preachy. If you want books about gratitude for kids that show the connection between thankfulness and kindness, or if you’re looking for bedtime stories that spark meaningful conversations about character, this book belongs on your shelf.
Why do I need this book?
It teaches that kindness comes from grateful hearts, not external rewards. Benaiah discovers his kindness flows from gratitude – for God’s beautiful creation, for having enough to share, for understanding what others experience. When we’re thankful for God’s kindness to us, kindness naturally bubbles up and overflows to others.
It answers the “why” question kids always ask. Benaiah explains: “When I look at creation, I feel so happy. God made everything so beautiful for us. That was so kind of Him. And when I think about that, kindness bubbles up inside me.” This book about gratitude for kids naturally connects seeing God’s goodness with kind actions.
It uses story to teach, not lectures. The magic tree captures imagination. When Benaiah helps his friend or shares his snack, these aren’t lessons – they’re natural parts of an engaging story. The twist ending teaches that kindness was inside us all along.
Can I read a sample first?
Of course! Here’s a beautiful moment when Benaiah explains to the old man why he chooses to be kind:
Extract from Benaiah and the Kindness Tree
“Has your friend often seen you being kind?” The old man asked.
Benaiah shrugged. “I suppose so. Being kind is important, isn’t it? I try to do it when I can.”
“Why is that? Why do you do kind things?”
Benaiah thought about his last week at school. “I picked someone’s coat off the floor because I didn’t want it to get dirty. I like it when my clothes are clean and tidy, and I wanted that coat to be clean too.”
The old man nodded slowly but didn’t say anything.
“And I helped Vadym because he doesn’t know English very well. He had to come here because his home isn’t safe. I feel sad that he left his life behind, and glad I can help him, even if it’s just a bit.”
A robin flew down onto the tree stump, and a bee buzzed past the bench. Benaiah felt warm inside as he watched them.
“When I look at creation – the birds, the trees, even the insects – I feel so happy. God made everything so beautiful for us. That was kind of Him. And when I think about that, kindness bubbles up inside me, and I want to share that kindness with others.”
The old man leaned back on the bench with a smile on his face.
“It sounds like you have found the key to kindness – and some people never find that. Seeing God’s kindness and being grateful is the first step to being kind to others.”
He pointed to the tree stump.
“The tree wasn’t magical, although maybe the leaves were a useful reminder. The kindness came from your grateful heart, and it will continue to come from there, even though the tree isn’t here anymore.”
Excerpt from Benaiah and the Kindness Tree © Joy Vee, 2024
Where Can I Purchase the Book?
You can buy paperbacks & ebooks directly from us here.
If you’d love this book to teach your children about kindness and gratitude but cannot afford it, we do run a bursary programme. Please contact us to request a book.