The Kindness Keeper (Book 1 of The Maple Hollow Stories) Sometimes the smallest kindness can change the biggest world. In the quiet New England town of Maple Hollow, nine-year-old Nora Linden believes kindness can make any place feel like home. When she starts at a new school, Nora carries more than pencils and notebooks in her backpack—she carries a heart full of hope. But not everyone knows how to be kind right away, and that sometimes friendship takes patience, courage, and a little faith in the goodness of others. Through laughter, small disappointments, and the gentle guidance of her parents and teacher, Nora discovers what it truly means to be The Kindness Keeper—someone who keeps kindness alive, even when it isn’t easy. With lyrical storytelling and warm watercolor-style illustrations, The Kindness Keeper is a tender celebration of empathy, belonging, and the quiet power of compassion. Perfect for readers ages 6–10, this heartfelt story will resonate with children, parents, and teachers alike, reminding us all that kindness doesn’t just happen; it grows.