Kind Karl

A grumpy crocodile learns what good can come when he chooses kindness in this adorable picture book for kids ages 4-8.
With everyday examples, approachable language, and adorable illustrations, adults will love introducing kids to mindfulness and meditation, inspiring them to look inward with curiosity and kindness.
Karl is a crocodile who lives in Orlando. He loves cardigans, crepes, and combing his hair. And . . . he has a terrible temper! Full of lovable animal characters, this playful story is a children's adaptation of Sharon Salzberg's beloved book Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness. Like the original, it asks the question, "Why does what we do, say, and care about make a difference?" The book explores how generosity and mindfulness contribute to a life of happiness and connection.
In today's divisive society, lovingkindness asks us to stop, find quiet, and look within; and in that honest reflection, answers appear. With relatable everyday examples, approachable language, and adorable illustrations, the book will inspire children to look inward with curiosity and kindness. By understanding what happiness feels like for themselves, they can realize how all people desire happiness.
The book includes accessible activities at the end to help kids and parents start a lovingkindness practice in their own lives.

SHARON SALZBERG is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She is among the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture 50 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is the co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society and author of fourteen books. She also hosts the popular podcast, The Metta Hour, featuring interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond.
JASON GRUHL is the former executive director and founder of The Joshua School (a school for children with autism spectrum disorders and developmental disabilities in Colorado); a psychotherapist; and a professor (adjunct) in the Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling program at Naropa University where he teaches Mindfulness and Meditation and Therapy for Children and Adolescence. Jason is the author of several books.
SÉBASTIEN MOURRAIN is the illustrator of over forty picture books and documentaries published by Gallimard, Seuil, Bayard Éditions, and Éditions Milan, among others. He lives in Lyon, France. His portfolio can be viewed at https://mourrain.ultra-book.com.