Cherokee Nation Citizen Publishes Debut Children’s Book, “Catching Kindness”

Oklahoma City, OK – Cherokee Nation citizen Kara Mitchell released her first children’s book, “Catching Kindness,” today, a story aimed at promoting empathy and positive interactions in everyday life.

The book, published by Magination Press out of Washington D.C., follows a young boy who demonstrates kindness to others while grocery shopping. Mitchell, originally from Newkirk, Oklahoma, both wrote and illustrated the book, a project she began in 2023. She holds degrees in fine art and landscape architecture from Oklahoma State University and previously taught high school art before transitioning to landscape design. “I often get cranky in grocery stores and wanted to remind myself and others that kindness is always a better idea,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell drew inspiration from a combination of audiobooks, specifically Malcolm Gladwell’s “Talking to Strangers” and writings by Mister Rogers, leading her to explore the idea that small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect. She spent ten years developing her creative voice and querying agents before finding representation that championed her vision. The illustrations themselves were created using gouache and colored pencil, then digitally collaged. This release comes as educators increasingly focus on social-emotional learning in early childhood.

Coming from a family of educators with a strong storytelling tradition, Mitchell emphasized the importance of stories as tools for teaching and learning. “All the good stuff in life takes a lot of time and sweat,” Mitchell added. “But all of the struggle makes it all worth it, and it makes you stronger in the process. So, if you want to write, write! If you want to draw, draw!” “Catching Kindness” is available for purchase on Amazon and other booksellers.

Mitchell plans to continue writing and illustrating children’s books, hoping to inspire young readers with positive messages.