Makayla Cares about Others

Makayla loves to fix all kinds of things, and thanks to the toolbox Grandpa gave her, she's ready to mend anything she can. When Aunt Karen's turtle figurine broke or when Mr. Bell's bird-feeder fell off the tree, Makayla was there to help.

On her way to Grandpa's one day, Makayla sees her neighbor planting a memory garden in honor of her cat who passed away. Makayla cares about Mrs. MacFee and knows that she should help with the garden, but there are bugs in the garden, and Makayla is terrified of bugs!

When Makayla leaves Mrs. MacFee alone in her garden, she feels sad that she can't help her neighbor. Then, she begins to think about how her grandpa still takes her to their favorite ice-cream shop, even though he can't eat sweets anymore. Makayla realizes that caring is about doing nice things for other people, even when you don't have to and when it's hard to do. Makayla returns to Mrs. MacFee's garden, determined to overcome her fear of bugs in order to help plant the garden.
This story in the "The Way I Act" series shows readers the importance of kindness and compassion. Virginia Kroll lives in New York. Nancy Cote, who lives in Massachusetts, adds her warm illustrations.