Something Good

"Something Good" by Marcy Campbell, illustrated by Corinna Luyken, is a powerful and deeply moving picture book designed to help elementary school children grapple with the difficult topic of hate speech and its impact on a community. When a hateful message, a "bad-something," is discovered scrawled on a school wall, the students and staff are thrown into disarray. Initial reactions range from nervous giggles and curiosity to worry, confusion, sadness, and anger. Suspicion clouds the atmosphere as everyone wonders: Who committed this act, and what motivated them? The innocent days before the incident are now viewed with a sense of longing, as the school environment feels irrevocably changed. Campbell masterfully portrays the ripple effect of hate speech, showing how it erodes trust and disrupts the sense of safety and belonging that is crucial for young children's well-being. The story doesn't shy away from the raw emotions that arise in the aftermath of such an event. Instead, it gently guides readers through the process of acknowledging these feelings and finding healthy ways to process them. Luyken's illustrations beautifully complement Campbell's text, using evocative imagery and a sensitive color palette to capture the emotional landscape of the story. Her artwork adds layers of meaning, emphasizing the children's vulnerability and the importance of empathy. The visual narrative mirrors the journey of healing, gradually transitioning from darker, more somber tones to brighter, more hopeful hues as the community begins to mend. This book is more than just a story; it's a valuable resource for parents, educators, and counselors seeking to initiate conversations about tolerance, prejudice, and the power of words. "Something Good" offers a pathway towards healing and reconciliation by emphasizing the importance of open communication, active listening, and collective action. The children in the story learn that by working together, they can create something positive that outweighs the negativity and helps restore their sense of community. Unlike many books that shy away from difficult subjects, "Something Good" confronts the issue of hate speech head-on, offering a realistic yet hopeful portrayal of how a school can navigate such a crisis. It highlights the fact that while the scars of such incidents may linger, it is possible to rebuild trust, foster understanding, and cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate environment. This book serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, empathy and kindness can pave the way for a brighter future. "Something Good" is a worthy addition to any home or school library, providing children with the tools they need to understand and combat hate speech while promoting a more tolerant and accepting world. From the acclaimed creators of "Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse!", this is a story that will resonate deeply with readers of all ages, encouraging them to embrace diversity and stand up against injustice.