When I first saw Cocoa Magic by Sandra Bradley and Gabrielle Grimard, I thought it was a book for the holidays. The cover evokes feelings of nostalgia and cozy moments but it's so much more than that!

Daniel spends lots of time with his Great-Uncle Lewis, the famous chocolatier. There was magic in that chocolate shop, a warmth that Daniel rarely felt outside of its walls, especially in the cold brick school building. When Daniel sees there are classmates who look like they can use a bit of warmth and magic, he starts leaving special gifts of chocolate, hidden for his friends. When Daniel needs a little cheering up himself, his friends, knowing what he had done for them, show up in a big way.

Author Sandra Bradley is a clinical social worker who knows the value of a simple act of kindness. When we see people and show up for them, even in the seemingly simplest of ways, it adds a little spark of magic. We all have a deep desire to feel as if we matter to each other. In this story, Sandra Bradley shows young readers how we can show empathy and understanding to others through Daniel and his chocolates. This would be an excellent story to combine with teachings of community, kindness and generosity. It is kind of perfect for the holiday season. No matter what you celebrate, each holiday has at its core the thread of generosity and kindness.

Gabrielle Grimard was the perfect choice to illustrate this story. Her art always evokes feelings of nostalgia and in a story set in the 1920s it was very necessary. Although her art reflects the time, it doesn’t feel old fashioned or out of touch with todays’ readers. All readers will feel the warmth in the illustrations as the empathy grows throughout the story.