Kindness Glows in the Dark - Hardcover

by Gama Valle (Author), Mrinali Álvarez Astacio (Illustrator)

★ "A striking book with incredible, unique illustrations that is a great addition to any collection" - School Library Journal, starred review

"Captures a memorable friendship while gently tackling difficult subjects" - Kirkus Reviews

A layered story set in Puerto Rico that emphasizes the values of kindness and community" - Booklist

A story about how a little bit of kindness can go a long way.

"Please, don't tell anyone," says Kamil.

Nube promises.

Nube knows someone has been stealing from her family's garden, and she's determined to catch whoever it is. But she never would have guessed that the person stealing is her friend Kamil. He helped her when she fell, he likes to share with everyone, and he always insists they let the cucubanos that they catch go. Why would someone so kind do something wrong?

Nube promises Kamil not to tell anyone about the stealing, but when she tells her best friend, word gets out and no one wants to play with Kamil. Through little acts of kindness and friendship, Nube tries to make it up to him. She discovers that Kamil's life at home isn't like hers, and that sharing helps everyone.

• Set in Puerto Rico in the Cordillera Central region
• Teaches kids about food insecurity and economic differences in an accessible way
• Endnotes provide further information about Cordillera Central and food insecurity

Back Jacket

"Nube and Kamil fill the night up with sparkles."

When Nube finds her friend Kamil stealing from her family's garden, she promises not to tell anyone. But when she breaks her promise, the two friends learn about giving and forgiving.

Author Biography

Gama Valle is a Puerto Rican children's author and casting director. He grew up surrounded by nature, fascinated with cucullos, and thankful for people's generosity. Gama's childhood experiences inspired Kamil and Nube's story. He currently lives in New York City, USA with his boyfriend and their pup, Meta.

Mrinali Álvarez Astacio grew up in a small house that, somehow, never felt small because it was filled with books that sparked her imagination. She believes that illustrations help us dream while we're awake. Mrinali now lives in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, and has an MA and PhD in children's book illustration from the Cambridge School of Art in the United Kingdo