The Paper Heart: A Story About How Words Can Hurt and How One Kind Action Can Make A Difference

A young boy learns about kindness and empathy after missing out on the opportunity to form a new friendship. When Martin gets called into the principal's office for bullying Julian, Martin thinks he hasn't done anything wrong. The principal tells Martin he needs to make things better with Julian by the end of the day. Martin has no idea how he will possibly do that since he thinks he hasn't hurt Julian's feelings. After listening to a story read by his teacher, Martin begins to experience empathy and realizes that maybe he didn't show much kindness to Julian after all, but still has no idea how he can make this up to Julian, until he discovers something laying on the floor by his table. In the end, Martin realizes too late that he missed out on a friendship with Julian because of his own actions. As the story continues, will Martin learn from his mistake and make a new friend? A message of empathy and respect is conveyed through engaging colorful illustrations. A great story for educators and parents to use to teach kindness and empathy. Educational materials developed to enhance the story and aligned with common core standards are available at tailgatorpress.com.

About the Author
Reichert, Sally: - Sally Reichert, M.Ed. is an emerging author, adventurer, traveler, and children's advocate. While she is retired now after a rewarding teaching career spanning almost three decades, her passion for educating our youth is lifelong. Year by year, Sally's heart grew heavier and heavier in the midst of dwindling kindness in the classroom and beyond. As a result, her story is one of genuine empathy and kindness. Through her debut book, she strives to ensure fellow educators and parents have the resources they need to teach children the art of compassion and thoughtfulness.