Book Review A Little Book About Sharing

In a world that often feels divided and self-centered, A Little Book About Sharing by Duke Stebbins arrives as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the beauty of generosity. This charming book, wrapped in simplicity, carries a profound message about the joy of sharing—not just material possessions, but time, kindness, and love.

Whether you're a parent looking for a meaningful story to read to your child, an educator seeking a tool to teach empathy, or simply someone who appreciates uplifting narratives, this book delivers. Stebbins crafts a tale that feels timeless, blending warmth, humor, and wisdom in a way that resonates deeply.

Without giving away major spoilers, A Little Book About Sharing follows a small but meaningful journey—often centered around a single act of kindness that ripples outward. The story introduces us to characters who initially struggle with possessiveness or reluctance to share, only to discover how much richer life becomes when they open their hearts.

The narrative unfolds in a series of small, relatable moments—whether it's sharing a favorite toy, offering a listening ear, or giving up something precious for someone else’s happiness. The plot is straightforward yet deeply effective, making it accessible for young readers while still offering layers of meaning for adults.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its characters. They aren’t perfect—they hesitate, they feel selfish at times, and they wrestle with the instinct to hold onto what’s "theirs." But this makes their growth all the more rewarding.

• The Reluctant Sharer: Often the central figure, this character embodies the initial resistance many of us feel before choosing generosity. Their journey from reluctance to willingness is subtle yet powerful.
• The Generous Guide: Sometimes a friend, a parent, or even an unexpected stranger, this character models what it means to give freely, without expectation.
• The Recipient of Kindness: The person who benefits from sharing serves as a reminder that generosity isn’t just about the giver—it transforms the receiver too.

Stebbins doesn’t preach; instead, he lets the characters’ experiences speak for themselves, making the lessons feel earned rather than forced.

Stebbins’ writing is deceptively simple. His prose is clean and accessible, making it perfect for children, but there’s an underlying depth that adults will appreciate. The dialogue feels natural, and the pacing keeps the story engaging without rushing its emotional beats.

The book also employs repetition effectively—key phrases or moments recur, reinforcing the theme without feeling redundant. The illustrations (if included in the edition) complement the text beautifully, adding another layer of charm.

On the surface, A Little Book About Sharing is about dividing material goods, but its deeper themes explore:

• Empathy & Connection: How sharing bridges gaps between people.
• Joy in Generosity: The surprising happiness that comes from giving.
• Letting Go of Scarcity Mindset: The idea that there’s enough to go around if we’re willing to share.

These themes make the book relevant beyond childhood—it’s a meditation on how small acts of kindness can reshape relationships and communities.

Reading this book felt like a warm hug. There’s an authenticity to Stebbins’ storytelling that avoids saccharine sentimentality. Instead, it feels real—like these are struggles and triumphs we’ve all experienced.

I found myself reflecting on my own habits around sharing, not just with possessions but with time and attention. The emotional impact sneaks up on you, leaving a quiet but lasting impression.

Fans of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein or Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Willems will find similar themes here. However, Stebbins’ approach feels more grounded in everyday interactions rather than grand allegories. It’s less about sacrifice and more about mutual joy—making it a refreshing take on the subject.

Strengths:

• Universal Appeal: Works for kids and adults alike.
• Gentle Yet Impactful: Doesn’t force the message but lets it unfold naturally.
• Relatable Scenarios: The situations feel authentic, not contrived.

Possible Weaknesses:

• Predictability: Some readers might find the arc familiar, though the execution elevates it.

• Minimalist Approach: Those looking for a more complex plot might want more depth.

• Parents & Caregivers: A great tool for teaching kids about generosity.

• Educators: Useful for classroom discussions on empathy.

• Adult Readers: A sweet, quick read that serves as a mindfulness reminder.

While avoiding spoilers, one standout line (or paraphrase, depending on the edition) is:

"When we share, we don’t make things smaller—we make joy bigger."

This encapsulates the book’s heart perfectly.

While the book doesn’t delve into specific cultural or historical settings, its themes are timeless and cross-cultural. Sharing is a universal value, making the story widely relatable.

A Little Book About Sharing is more than a children’s story—it’s a little manual for living kindly. Duke Stebbins has crafted something that feels both simple and profound, a rare combination. Whether you’re reading it to a child or revisiting it yourself, its message lingers long after the last page.

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Discussion Questions for Readers:

• What’s a time when sharing something (even intangible) made a difference in your life?
• How do you teach kids about generosity without making it feel obligatory?
• Do you think society encourages or discourages sharing? Why?

I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below if this book resonated with you too!

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