Stoke Reads Connecting Stories Anthology 2021 by literacytrust

Connecting Stories, Stoke-on-Trent

CITY OF KINDNESS

Connecting Stories Anthology from

This book belongs to

City of Kindness Connecting Stories Anthology Stoke-on-Trent

Supported by Arts Council England.

Cover illustration © Joe Lillington, 2021

Design and content © National Literacy Trust, 2021

Design by Kireli Studio.

All enquiries around this anthology should be directed to: contact@literacytrust.org.uk The National Literacy Trust is a registered charity no. 1116260 and a company limited by guarantee no. 5836486 registered in England and Wales and a registered charity in Scotland no. SC042944. Registered address: 68 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1RL.

With Thanks... The National Literacy Trust is a charity dedicated to improving the reading,

We would like to thank Arts Council England for funding and supporting

writing, speaking and listening skills of those who need it most, giving

the Connecting Stories project. We would also like to thank Harpercollins

them the best possible chance of success in school, work and life. We

and Anna James and Katherine Woodfine, who generously supported

support communities, schools and early years settings and campaign to

this anthology, and extend warm thanks to the numerous community

make literacy a priority. Delivered by the National Literacy Trust and funded by Arts Council England, Connecting Stories aims to increase children and young people's interest in reading and writing, and to promote diverse voices and stories. Connecting Stories provides a programme of exciting events, such as virtual author visits, creative writing competitions and activities for families to enjoy.

champions and corporate volunteers who have kindly donated their time to help bring this anthology together: Atlantic Books

Saffron Alexander

Cambridge University Press

Sally Atkinson

Emerald Publishing

Gaganpreet Kaur Basra

Faber & Faber

Sheena Carman

Pearson

Dawn Claypole Rhona Drever Margaret Duff Hannah Fogg Charlotte Kim James Kingett Jenna Lee Michael Leyland Marykate McGrath Jan Papworth Allison Potter Tahera Sultana Emile Tambeh Felicia Tennant

And finally, thank you to all of the children who took part. It is their stories that make this anthology so special.

A word from children’s author, Anna James

Books meant everything to me when I was young (and still do!) and they were how I explored the world and learned about who I wanted to be. The

Dear young writers, I have loved reading your entries from Stoke-on-Trent – I was so impressed at how brilliantly they captured the theme of ‘City of Kindness’. We’ve collected just some of the best young voices from across Stoke-on-Trent in this anthology - it’s so inspiring to see them all collected here, celebrating your creativity and imagination and what kindness means to you! Creative writing is an amazing way to explore how you feel about the world around you; it’s a place to test out your own ideas and thinking, to imagine what it’s like to be someone else or to share what it’s like to be you. It’s also a way to play and invent, to bring the ideas that only you could have to life on the page. As writers, we spend a lot of time shaping and editing our ideas, but one of the best bits about storytelling is the very beginning when you first have that seed of an idea and are working out what it could be. It’s important that you enjoy this stage and give yourself permission to write big, beautiful, messy things full of imagination and joy! My first book, Tilly and the Bookwanderers, was inspired by my love of reading and writing. It’s about an eleven-year-old girl who lives in a bookshop and realises that she can travel inside books because she is something called a bookwanderer, and she visits books like Alice in Wonderland and Treasure Island with her best friend Oskar.

books in my local library let me go anywhere I wanted and each one felt like a magical portal to another place and so I wanted to celebrate the limitless possibilities of reading in my series, Pages & Co. There’s nothing quite like the freedom that reading and writing can give you. Reading lets you see what other lives are like, and writing gives you a way to share yours. As readers and writers, we’re all part of a long chain of sharing stories that connects us all – something that I think is pretty special. I hope that you enjoy reading this anthology as much I enjoyed helping choose the entries and that they inspire you as much they did me, Happy bookwandering! Anna James

A word from children’s author, Katherine Woodfine

fantasy worlds, exploring language and letting my imagination run wild is a huge part of what made me become a writer. Today I’m the author of more than ten books for children, including the

I am delighted to have had the pleasure of reading entries from Stoke-onTrent for the Connecting Stories creative writing competition. Young writers were asked to respond to the theme ‘City of Kindness’, and it was wonderful to see the imaginative ways they captured the spirit of this theme. Whenever I read children’s writing, I’m always impressed by the creative ideas, the distinctive voices and the sense of humour that I encounter. What’s more, as I read these entries, I was inspired by how passionate these young writers are about the importance of kindness - whether it’s being kind to our friends, our families, the environment, or the wider communities we live in. Their writing shows how much kindness matters to us all. Congratulations to all the young writers whose work is included here. Seeing your work published in an anthology like this is something very special. I know I’d have been thrilled to see my creative writing included in a book like this when I was growing up. I’ve loved reading and writing for as long as I can remember, and still have lots of the stories and poems I wrote as a child. Looking at them now reminds me of the time I spent up in my bedroom, reading my favourite books, writing and drawing. It’s so important to have this time and space to use your imagination and be creative. I know now that the time I spent writing just for fun - inventing my own characters, dreaming up my own

bestselling Sinclair’s Mysteries and the Taylor & Rose Secret Agents series. I’m lucky enough to have my books published in countries around the world. But I can trace all that right back to the books I read and the stories and poems I wrote in my childhood bedroom. That’s where my journey to being a writer really began. I hope you will enjoy reading the writing in this anthology as much as I did. Most of all I hope the entries will inspire you to keep reading, keep writing, and to keep on using your imagination and being creative. You never know where that journey might take you…

A word from Hub Manager, Lois Bateman Stoke-on-Trent was voted as the UK’s kindest city for carrying out acts of kindness in 2020. This is an achievement to be proud of. I am so delighted to have had the pleasure of reading all the wonderful entries for our Kindness Competition, from children in this city celebrating this achievement. All the entries included in this anthology have really made the local voices from Stoke-on-Trent shine and are a testament to the creativity of children and young people in the area. Traditionally, anthologies don’t focus on Stoke-on-Trent, nor do they often include the voices of children or young people. Yet these are the very groups of people with the most creative ideas and the most relevant experiences! The quality in the entries was astonishing and it was so lovely to hear the voices of so many different children from across the city. It is proven that reading for just 10 minutes a day can help you to feel calm and relaxed, reduce your stress levels and improve your memory and concentration. So, give yourself a well-earned break and enjoy these words and wisdom from the children of our beautiful city. I wish you as much joy reading this anthology as I had helping to get these entries together, and above all I hope that they convince you of how important it is to read the stories of others, and to tell your own story. Best, Lois Bateman Stoke Reads

Contents Winning Entry George E, 10...................................... 21

Joint Second Place Entry Millie W, 9.......................................... 22

Joint Second Place Entry Tyler E, 11.......................................... 24

All Entries Eloise G, 9................................................ 25

Georgie H, 9............................................ 38

Tyler E, 11................................................ 26

Grace L, 9................................................. 39

Maisie S, 10............................................. 26

Jack G, 9.................................................... 41

Lydia B, 7.................................................. 27

Jack L, 10.................................................. 41

Hope C, 7.................................................. 28

Julia L, 9.................................................... 42

Ania F, 11................................................. 28

Olivia C, 10.............................................. 43

Zaynab J, 7............................................... 30

Riley B, 9................................................... 44

Asawer A, 10........................................... 31

Ruby F, 9................................................... 45

Fabbrino J, 9............................................ 32

Thomas C, 9............................................. 46

Grace D, 10.............................................. 33

Isabel P, 9................................................. 47

Charlie S, 9.............................................. 34

Aimee J, 8................................................. 48

Alfie B, 10................................................. 36

Freya C & Amelia C, 8.......................... 49

Connor L, 10............................................ 36

Charlie B, 9.............................................. 49

Daria C, 10............................................... 37

Chloe Y, 9................................................. 50

Edith S, 10............................................... 38

Dylan C, 8................................................. 51

Ella-Rose B, 9.......................................... 52

Fariha K, 11............................................. 85

Elyssa-Mae L, 8...................................... 53 Evie LB, 8................................................. 54 Harry D, 9................................................. 55 Jack L, 9..................................................... 55 Gracie-May R, 10................................... 56 Jacob W, 10.............................................. 57 Leo PM, 9.................................................. 57 Riley P, 10................................................. 58 Tanisha J, 8.............................................. 59 Naomi S, 11............................................. 60 Iman M, 9................................................. 62 Laura G, 9................................................. 64 Maryam A, 9............................................ 66 Roza S, 10................................................ 68 Sameera R, 10........................................ 69 Violet A, 10.............................................. 71 Lacie.......................................................... 73 Oliver......................................................... 74 Linda N, 10.............................................. 75 Mason....................................................... 76 Riley........................................................... 77 Theo........................................................... 78 Maizey....................................................... 79 Gabriella CS............................................ 80 Adam G, 10.............................................. 82 Quratulain T, 11..................................... 84

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Winning Entry

George E, 10 Acts of kindness are easy to do. Something as simple as saying “Ay up mate, how do?” If you're from Stoke you'll know what it means, It’s as heart-warming as oatcakes and beans. A smile or a nod is all it might take, but some people prefer coffee or cake. Mowing a lawn, putting the bin in the street, thanking a policeman for walking their beat. Acts of kindness are easy you sew Yours might be different, this is just me!

Second Place Entry

Millie W, 9 H News | OLD LADY EXTRAVAGANZA “Wednesday, 9.30am. An old lady was coming out of Zezzo’s grocery shop with huge, heavy shopping bags when they split open, sending all of her food to the ground.”

- John (witness)

“I felt so ashamed, standing there holding two broken bags. Cars were beeping but I could not bend over,” said Clare, the old lady, when we caught up with her today. A man named Steve was about to drive off, when he saw the lady in distress. He jumped out and rushed to help her. “On seeing her I had to help her. Older people need more help than the rest of us,” said Steve when we caught up with him earlier today. “A supreme act of kindness.”

- Elizabeth

“Always be kind.”

- George, writer.

Second Place Entry

All Entries

Tyler E, 11

Eloise G, 9

Acts of kindness

One Christmas I was watching the news and a chocolate factory shut down

A little act of kindness can go a long way,

and my neighbour lost her job. She did not find another job and she was ill

To make someone smile and really make their day.

because of Covid. She cannot go out to get food or presents for her kids, so

Kindness can be a hug to share,

I went to the shop and bought food for them and I got the kids a present

to show someone you really care.

and a card for Christmas so that on Christmas day they had food to eat

Kindness can be doing a chore

and presents to open and cards to read. As an act of kindness, you can help

Or standing to the side to let someone through the door.

someone even if you do something little you can still help, just like this girl.

Kindness can be washing someone’s car Or sending a postcard to someone afar. Kindness can be helping someone when they’re down Or leaving happy notes around the house to be found. Kindness can be donating my old toys for those less fortunate, like little girls and boys. Kindness can be helping my mum to cook or sitting down with my dad to read a book. Out of all the towns and cities combined, Stoke-On-Trent is the best at being kind.

There was a girl and she had no toys because her mum had not got a job. She went to the park to play with the children. She walked all the way there and she saw all of the other children going to the park on their scoters and they were all laughing except for one girl. So then they all left her then she ran to the park where she went to the boy with some toys, but he said no because he only let boys play with him. Then she went to sit on the bench all by herself a girl came up to her and asked to play with her then she went to play with her so she had a friend so this girl that shared her toys the little girl, so she was doing an act of kindness.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Tyler E, 11

He is one of the kindest I have seen. He sleeps with me and plays with me,

Acts of kindness

An act of kindness I can see.

A little act of kindness can go a long way,

Fluffy, black and green,

To make someone smile and really make their day.

He is one of the kindest I have seen.

Kindness can be a hug to share,

He is a good friend,

to show someone you really care.

Our friendship will always extend.

Kindness can be doing a chore

Fluffy, black and green,

Or standing to the side to let someone through the door.

He is one of the kindest I have seen.

Kindness can be washing someone’s car Or sending a postcard to someone afar.

Lydia B, 7

Kindness can be helping someone when they’re down Or leaving happy notes around the house to be found. Kindness can be donating my old toys for those less fortunate, like little girls and boys. Kindness can be helping my mum to cook or sitting down with my dad to read a book. Out of all the towns and cities combined, Stoke-On-Trent is the best at being kind.

Maisie S, 10

Be Kind Please be kind for all to see, internet bullying is not for me, it can bring tears, heartache and pain, it really drives me insane, being king is nicer for sure, we should all be a lot nicer more, sharing the love and being kind, Is good for your heart, soul and mind.

My beloved cat He helps me when I am down, I think he deserves a crown. Fluffy, black and green,

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Hope C, 7

Struggling with ideas on what to do in lockdown? If you've reached the end of Netflix and the idea of spending another day on the sofa looking at

I think that the kindest person I know is my mummy. My mummy looks after me and my brother, George, as well as my daddy. My granny and papa

memes is too much to bear, it's time to change up your routine and get those creative juices flowing.

also need looking after and she looks after them too. My mummy is a teacher

Staying at home may be limiting but it doesn't need to be boring – from

and looks after big children all day too. Do I think my mummy must be

learning a language to organising your wardrobe, updating your CV to

good at looking after people and being kind? I think that it's important to be

writing a novel, there are plenty of fun and productive things you can take

kind to everyone. We've learnt at school that we should be kind to everyone

up to pass the time. Why not start right now?

as we don't know how hard people might have things at home. I've learned that some people have had to move places from where they lived. Being kind to people can be sharing a story or listening to people if they need to talk. I think we all need to be more kind.

So now you have had some inspiration I want to see you all up and running and finding something to do because during this hard time we can’t just give up we have to pick ourselves up and try and get through this so come on get up off your sofas even you parents and let’s do some exercise.

Ania F, 11

So now you probably want some rest don’t you so how about a few ideas for that. Take a break. Relaxation doesn't have to take up lots of your time. Just

Coronavirus has affected everyone throughout the world and has left people

stepping away from something stressful for a few minutes or taking time

feeling agitated and disconsolate because we never know what is going to

away from your normal routines and thoughts can give you enough space

happen. But we have to be prepared and we also have to follow the rules

and distance to feel calmer.

because these rules are the rules that will keep us safe and healthy. If we don’t follow the rules, then that puts us and everyone around us in danger.

Read a book or a magazine, even if it's only for a few minutes. Run yourself a bath, watch a film, play with a pet or try out a new recipe. Try active

Just because the rules are there doesn’t mean we can’t exercise or have fun

relaxation. Relaxation doesn't have to mean sitting still – gentle exercise can

because the whole point of life is not just to work hard and get a job but it

help you relax too.

is also about having fun and no matter what happens don’t give up because there is hope. In fact, here are some ideas you could have a look at.

Take a walk, going at your own pace. You might choose to go for a longer walk, but even a few minutes of walking can help you feel relaxed. Look for 29

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Asawer A, 10

a class you'd like to try, such as yoga, Pilates or gentle stretching. See our page on physical activity and mental health for more tips. So that is probably all the relaxation and how to keep healthy tips you want.

Once a upon a time, live two girls called Maltid and Maddie they were the

But also do your bit, like helping the environment. Just remember don’t lose

bestie twins. But one day Maddie couldn’t find her makeup because Maltid

hope and always try your best!

took it because she was going to a party. Maddie saw Maltid doing her

Have a good day and remember don’t lose hope finally goodbye.

makeup and Maddie shouted: “Is that my makeup?” “Yes,” replied, Maltid.

Zaynab J, 7

“What? Give it to me right now right now!” “Not it my life,” shouted Maltid. Maddie went crying to her mum and told everything what Maltid did. Her mum went to Maltid’s room so angry.

Kindness is a mark of faith. Kindness is not to hate.

“There,” Mum said, “give Maddie’s makeup back right now?”

Kindness is a beautiful trait.

“Ok,” Maltid said. Their mum talked to Maltid about kindness. She

Kindness is never too late.

understood about kindness and Maltid said sorry.

Kindness is a great state. Kindness leads to a beautiful gate.

“It’s ok,” replied Maddie. “Do you what to play with me?”

So sow a seed of kindness and make the world a better place.

“Yes,” replied Maltid. “Ok.” They were the bestie, friendly twins again. Their mum was so, so proud about them.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Fabbrino J, 9

Grace D, 10 Wherever you go each and every day,

City of Kindness

It doesn’t matter who you meet along the way.

Can you be kind with everyone?

For when the kind words live in your heart,

If I help someone up who is in need

A relationship is about to start.

Then they will be happy indeed. You do everything with kindness, it means a lot. Oh! Could you behave good and in kind manner? For that you will touch others hearts. Kind enough to play with who are in need, Instantly they will get cheered up indeed. Nothing can be better of being kind to everyone. Do it today and do it every day.

When captain Tom raised money, The nation became really sunny. Claps and cheers filled the land, Donations flooded in more than they had planned. When strangers clapped outside together, The nation’s hearts were sewn together.

Notice that the city will be smiling. Everyone can afford to give, it costs nothing. Still, love and kindness are in this world So you can be kind and the city will be happy everyday.

Neighbourhoods bonded and came together, Relationships were formed forever. When Covid’s takeover was at bay, The NHS saved the day. Cheers spread around the land, Neighbours everywhere lending a hand. Those little kind acts, Have the most impact, And while we can’t hug our family and friends, We can always share our hearts and the love it sends.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Charlie S, 9 Children’s rugby team receives award of kindness This week is random acts of kindness week and an under 9s rugby coach received the award for giving his best to help the team achieve their goal! Photo: football clothes This allows people to donate clothes they don’t need to the club this allows our new players who can’t afford a football kit to have on from older people. What is random act of kindness week? Random act of kindness week is a week to celebrate generous things people have done. It was created in 2015 by the kindness foundation to encourage others. The team decides to raise money for their local charity. They raised £253! Wow, that’s a lot.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Alfie B, 10

After the 90 minutes it was a 1-0 win for Vale, The first thing Taylor did was run over to the child and passed the shirt over to him.

Dear Diary,

This was a really jubilant as the kid started to cry the most happy tears

Today we picked up my 20-year-old cousin to take her to the hospital where my mum works so she could volunteer on the wards to help out in the

imaginable. Cameras caught the moment and even noticed that Taylor had a tear in his eye. This will surely go down in the club’s history books.

pandemic. I think my cousin is the kindest person I know because she is giving up her free time to help sick people in need.

Daria C, 10

She goes on to the ward to feed and help the elderly with their dinners as well as general care she also talks to them when they are lonely. This makes me want to be kind in the future and I want to help people who are in need or lonely.

Dear Diary, Today was the best day of my life. When I was walking back from the butcher’s shop there was a big crowd was making fun of an elderly lady that that could not cross the road. While people stared and laughed and smirked,

Connor L, 10

I was frozen inside. I was asking myself questions like “why are they doing this to her”? and before I knew it I was going to help her. So I dropped my shopping and ran as fast as my legs could take me. Firstly,

Words are decorations

I tried to stop the cars and everyone laughed at me. Finally, when the cars

Today, at 3pm Port Vale took on Leyton Orient. But today something strange

stopped, I put my hand over her shoulder and carefully crossed the street

yet amazing happened. There was a young boy with a sign that said: “Jake

with her.

Taylor please can I have your shirt?”

After we got to the other side of the road she couldn’t stop thanking me, I

This was strange because not a lot of people do this at Port Vale. It was also

knew I did something good.

the child’s birthday which made the scenario even more sweet and heartwarming. Jake Taylor immediately noticed the sign and promised the child he would give his shirt to him after the game.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Edith S, 10 Dear Diary,

Grace L, 9 Bee kind

Today, I witnessed an act of kindness that made me smile. All of this started when I was in my dad’s car but then I saw somebody drop their shopping. I couldn’t get out the car to help him because I was on a main road. I wasn’t moving because I was in a traffic jam. Luckily somebody walk to him she picked everything up and put it in his bag. That is how I got happy today.

Kindness is like a flower it grows and grows every time you do a kind thing the naughty crow goes away so keep the crow at bay

Georgie H, 9

and bring a smile to someone’s face.

Dear Diary,

listen

Today I witnessed the most incredible act of kindness it made my heart smile. It all started when an old lady came out of the shop. She walked down the road and dropped her bag of shopping. There were two other girls walking down the street. When the old lady dropped her bag of shopping the girls hurried down to help the old lady. They helped her pick her shopping up. The lady was not hurt. They went to her house and put her shopping away. The lady let them stay for the night. Then a year later the old lady died on the 19th July. But when anyone was hurt Jalika and Izzy would be there.

to this time I’ve seen a good deed… A man on the side of the road Got stung a hard sting by a bee in black and yellow he fell to the floor with a thud then a kind man

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Jack G, 9

came and lifted him to

Dear Diary,

his fate so the kind man’s flower is big

Today I witnessed the most incredible act of kindness – it made my heart

make your flower big too!

smile. It all started when there was a kind women donated to a charity outside a shop. Also there was a man helping a homeless person by giving them money, food and water. Also there was the most incredible act of kindness, my friend helped somebody clean up their mess and he always puts a smile on everybody’s face and he always cheers people up when they are getting sad, and he always lets people in his games when they are feeling lonely and left out.

Jack L, 10 Dear Diary, Today I witnessed something heart-warming. On my way to school me and my friends, Heidi and Lily, saw a puppy shivering in the road so we all ran into the road when nobody was there and gently picked up the puppy and took him to the vets. A few days later we went to see how he was doing. When they walked in he was on the front desk looking like a new dog and he even had a name – Bruno! We all were obssessed with him and one of the vets said you should adopt Bruno, he needs a home.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Olivia C, 10

Suddenly my mum who is a vet came out and said: “You’ve ruined the surprise! You are adopting him!” Me and Lily screamed with joy and so did Bruno.

It doesn’t matter where you are, or when you meet,

Julia L, 9

carry love, kindness and happiness in your heart, And use it each day. A simple smile can change someone’s face, And someone’s week,

Keeping others in my payers.

The smallest happiness we have,

Including others.

The gift of joy we seek.

Negative is the feeling you don’t want to have. Do keep your hands to yourself.

A gentle touch reminds us, That humanity still reigns. To pet a lonely cat or dog, Shows that love will never go.

Not hurting others.

There are a million obstacles,

Every day I can be kind.

On any given day,

Spreading kindness is good for you and others.

But rise above the hate and fear, And we use the kindness way.

Saying good things about others.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Riley B, 9 Dear Diary,

Ruby F, 9 The man on the farm

Today, I witnessed the most incredible act of kindness – it made my heart smile. It all started when a man was sitting in the streets and lots of people walked past him, not even looking at him. He thought he wasn’t even anyone there for them. After days and days, a man came and stopped for him and asked if he was ok, he said he had a cold and stomach pain so he man took him to a doctor and after he had some medicine he was ok and they went to buy new clothes for him. The homeless man thanked him so much and the man set off home and said he will come back later to see him again.

The old man who lived on a farm jumped out of his bed made of yarn, To water his plants and to do what God asks. He wakes up every day, spring or summer even if the weather gets even warmer, To water his plants and do what God asks. He does not care what others have to say so he decides to do this every day, He waters his plants he does what God asks.

After, they went to buy a house for the homeless man and they spent the

He helps the plants to live and he

day decorating his house. When it was his birthday, the man bought him

gives everything he has to give,

a dog to keep him company. After five years the man came back to see the

And he waters the plants and does what God asks.

homeless man again and told him he got married and had two kids and was so happy that he did this for the homeless man. The man gave him a little more money for more food, water, warmth, and after, he thanked him again and the other man set off back home. The dog barked when he left and the man bought him dog food and gave it to the dog to eat.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Thomas C, 9

Isabel P, 9

One sunny day, I was doing my home schooling upstairs when I started to feel lonely and bored because there was no one upstairs except my dad who is doing work. So after school, I went downstairs and told Mum how I felt. Then Mum said: “Now, I know how you feel, I’ll do my best to try and make home schooling fun again.” So she did in break and those times when there was quite a few minutes left so we would have like a quick game of hangman then I will re-join all happy and prepared for the rest part of home schooling. Then I started to miss my friends so we had a few calls to try and cheer me up. When it got so close to the end of home schooling, when this had happened, I started to feel a bit more normal because when I go back to school. It will be the beginning of the end of lockdown, so I can see my friends again so it will end all the darkness and bring love, joy and kindness together, forever.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Aimee J, 8

Freya C & Amelia C, 8

City of Kindness

Kindness is manners

My mum has a special gift,

We say “Thank you”. We say “please”.

That she shares with not only me,

We don’t interrupt or tease.

But everyone she sees.

We don’t argue, we don’t fuss. We listen to our friends.

That gift is kindness.

We share our toys and take our turn.

Whether it’s helping someone when they are hurt,

Good manners are easy to learn. It’s really easy when you’ve learnt.

Or just spreading a smile,

That good manners mean.

Mum always does it with kindness.

BEING KIND.

And the best thing about her gift,

Charlie B, 9

Is that you can have it too! In fact, anyone can be kind.

My story is non-fiction

and it doesn’t cost a penny!

My neighbour, Jeff, who is very lonely was shouting really loud. My dad

You don’t have to be rich to be kind!

started talking to him through the letter box. It turned out he was on the floor and couldn’t get up. The door was locked but we didn’t want to wait

You just have to care.

for emergency services because it could be too late. My dad had to remove the back window. Jeff had been there for two days with no food or water. My mum, dad and another neighbour got him comfortable while we waited for an ambulance to arrive. Now he gives free pies. I think he likes us.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Chloe Y, 9

Dylan C, 8 City of Kindness

City of Kindness

Kindness is in all forms: A hug, smile, helping someone to cross the street.

If you don’t do a crime, you will be happy all the time

People are always being kind if it’s helping someone off the road, playing with

If you smile it will spread the cheer,

someone who is lonely or helping your mum with her chores.

to get us through this year.

Showing kindness to other people makes everyone happy and makes you

If you are said inside don’t cry, It will be fine your friend is by your side.

warm on the inside. Help a teacher help a friend.

If you help someone you,

Kindness doesn’t cost a thing and makes the world a better place. Do your

have made a friend inside.

part today and make the world smile.

do a hobby with a friend it’s lots of fun time to spend. If you don’t do a crime you, will be happy all the time.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Ella-Rose B, 9 City of Kindness

Elyssa-Mae L, 8 City of Kindness – a world full of kindness

Busy every day for kindness to people I’ve seen strangers giving money to homeless people My mum and stepdad give me big squeeze when I am sad I will help people if they need help. If someone is sad I will help them by making them laugh My stepdad helps me my cricket I will help my sister if she feels upset. My mum and stepdad are kind because they put me and my sister first.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Evie LB, 8 Me and Isabella were at the ice cream farm on Sunday. Isabella saw a park. Me and Isabella went to the park. After a while me and Isabelle got nangle awer. Mum said “let’s go get some ice cream.”

Harry D, 9 Kind Dog There was once a kind dog, called Nog,

I got caramel. Isabella did too. As we went to the park bench Isabella dropped

who saved me,

her ice cream. Isabella’s mum didn’t have any more money, nor my mum.

from a falling tree,

So I had a great idea to share my ice cream. Then when we were just about

Nog is a hero,

to play then Isabella gave me a hug to say thank you. So for the rest of the

Nog is my little hero,

day we played in the park.

and my friend, Forever.

Jack L, 9 City of Kindness Kindness is great, especially when hearing a mate. One kind word, needs to be heard. One smile, can travel a mile. Lending a hand, Will show you understand.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Gracie-May R, 10

Jacob W, 10 The City of Kindness is the finest of all. So fine that it’s all peace. But in the Stoke City Stadium it makes the city rumble because the fans are so excited to yet win another game. Sometimes they don't win, that’s just bad luck but with the power of the City of Kindness, Stoke on Trent, they grow confidence and yet win more games, and win EFL cup.

Leo PM, 9 My great-nan was born on February 18th 1921. She decided as she celebrated her 100th birthday this year and instead of getting presents she wanted to raise money. So she chose UHNM which is our hospital and my mum set up a charity page for her. She has lived in Stoke-on-Trent her whole life and wanted to help all of the brave hospital workers and to show how proud she was for everything they do. I am proud of her for reaching that age and being so generous and kind. She raised £725.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Riley P, 10

Tanisha J, 8

Once upon a time there was a lonely gorilla and a happy gorilla. The lonely

The Kindness Monster was sitting in its dark cave bored to death. He heard

gorilla was called Gerald and the happy gorilla was called Logan. One day

the chatter of children outside and he looked through a hole. The children

Gerald went to speak to the other gorillas and said: “What should I do to

were playing outside nicely by sharing and helping people in need. The

get friends?”

monster hated people being kind so he wanted revenge. He went to the

“Do something funny,” they replied, “or speak to them.” “Ok,” said Gerald. He went over to Logan and said: “Do you want to see something funny?”

village to suck all the kindness out of people. The people started to become mean. They didn’t share or talk to one another but luckily two kids, Tanisha and Alfie, didn’t get their kindness sucked out of them. When they saw him coming out of his house, they hid behind

“Yes, please,” he said. Gerald started juggling with his feet. “Ha ha ha!” Logan

some boxes. As they crouched down, fear ran through their bodies. They

said. “You are so funny!”

didn't even breathe. They watched in horror as the terrifying monster went

Gerald said: “Do you want to be friends?” “Yes please,” he replied. From then Gerald wasn’t a lonely gorilla, he was a funny gorilla. Ever since then they moved in together and had a happy life, as best friends.

from house to house sucking the kindness from the every last villager with a long, blue straw. When he monster had finished his terrible deed, he went back home and sat down to rest, but the two 'survivors' wouldn’t give up and vowed to save the village. They went to the monster’s house and listened to what the monster

The End.

was saying. “So peaceful - no people being kind," the monster muttered to himself, but that was no help. Suddenly, they had an idea to try and find the kindness in the monster by dropping lots of Acts of Random Kindness around his house. They waited until the monster had fallen asleep in his armchair. They crept inside, and started their acts of kindness. They washed the dirty dishes, cleaned his car, made his bed they even prepared a delicious meal. As the amazing smells wafted through the house, the monster started to stir. First 58

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

one eye, then the other. His nose started to twitch and his belly began to

When they elders found them they were restored

grumble. He followed the breathtaking smells to the kitchen. He was amazed

To an evil darkness that was ensured by

at what he saw as he entered the room.

The City of Darkness

"Would you like something to eat?" Tanisha and Alfie asked nervously.

But once, a citizen dared to shout out A loud vibrating call that rang throughout

"Yes please!" said the monster excitedly. “Wait, I thought I sucked all the

Little did everyone know, in their minds full of doubt

kindness out of the villagers!" He exclaimed. He saw the children smiling

That someone would hear the vibrating shout,

and said: "I can't believe you have done all these amazing things for me when

And come to save.

I have been so horrible to everyone. Kindness isn’t that bad," he mumbled to

The City of Darkness

himself. "Wait. Yes it is. If I am kind, my mum will be mean to me!"

This person, you might wonder,

Tanisha whispered gently: “It doesn’t matter. We can be your family.”

Could stop the call of thunder They were gifted in the power of kindness

“Really? Thank you,” said the monster. "You have shown me how important

The power that could save all the righteous

kindness is. I promise to be kind from now on and I'll start by giving everyone

The City of Darkness

their kindness back."

They heard the sorrowful call of despair And flew with their bronze wings through the cool air

Naomi S, 11

Towards the place where they needed to share The love, kindness and care With the place they would call The City of Kindness

The City of Kindness

Like a heroine in a storybook

Once in a valley far, far away

They arrived and with just a look

A mean, selfish place with a stone heart lay

Turned a new page in the book

Within its evil clutches, you would not want to stay.

for

The City of Darkness

The City of Kindness

The fear that remained with a heart oh so pure

In a swirl of gold magic,

Were rejected cruelly by the ones they once adored

There was no trace of anything tragic

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

They all jumped for joy, hugged and smiled At the one who had saved everyone, mother and child The one who took a graceful bow

Me and my dad crossed the road over to her I said: “Do you need help?” She said: “Yes.”

The magical pixie, maker of

My dad asked: “Where do you need to go? I could take you wherever you

The City of Kindness

have to go.”

Iman M, 9

She replied: “I was in a shop with my son and I didn’t realise he went to a different shop, I didn’t have my phone or anything. No one would let me borrow their phone. Could you call this number?” My dad said: “Of course, you really need to find your family. No one should

City of Kindness In the future I want the whole world to be kind! They could help blind people, care for the poor; there’s lots of things we could do to be kind. If, when I’m older, I was rich I would share that money to my family to the poor, but it’s not just about the money. It’s about your actions. People in the world aren’t in it for the money but for people to change how they act. If just at least for one day they think about how they could change everyone’s lives by smiling, saying thank you and please, this would be a life changer. This is a story now about how I was kind to an old lady in France. When I was four or five years old I went to France with my dad, my mum and my sister. We were visiting France when we approached the road to cross it when we see a woman. We don’t know exactly what she was doing but it looked like she was struggling to cross the road. She would try but sit back down again. I don’t know if she was blind but I asked my dad if we could help her. He said yes.

be alone.” So my dad put in his phone and gave it to the women. She talked to her son and he said he was coming in a few minutes. The lady was extremely grateful to finally re-join with her family. She asked: “How could I ever repay?” My dad and me replied together saying: “You don’t have to do anything, live your life doing anything with your family.” After a while her son found her. He said: “May God have so much mercy on you, may he take you straight to Heaven.” My dad said: “No problem, it was my pleasure.” Then they drove off and I was thinking what if I got lost I don’t know what I would do without family. I would not live without my family. Family are the most important thing ever. Always look where your family is.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Laura G, 9

“Yes it is.” “What are you doing here?”

City of Kindness

“I’m here to ask why you are in hospital?”

Once upon a time, there was a man called Luke. He had won a lottery and rushed to the hospital too help his wife but when he was walking, he saw a homeless man wanting to buy food. Luke went too him and decided to give him £100 so he could buy himself some food but Luke just remembered

“Well someone robbed our house and I decided to run but all my other family members died except my sister, because you saved her life, she was able to do everything now and she ran with me. Thank you.”

about him going to help his wife. He paid and his wife was able to go home,

Luke was shocked that he was able to help Jake’s sister. He paid for his son’s

but just before he paid, he overheard a conversation about someone called

operation and was able to buy a small house for Jake and his sister since the

Jake who didn’t have enough money to pay for his sister with cancer. So Jake

robbers took everything. Luke saved a small family.

rushed to him and said: “Jake, I’ve heard you don’t have money to help your sister, is that right?”

Three years later he found the homeless man getting a house key from Jake. Jake became a millionaire and because Luke saved him and Jake helped

Jake replied saying: “Yes sir, that is true, I’m missing £57.” Luke felt bad and decided to help Jake out. “You know what, take this.” Jake was so happy and quickly paid for his sister. “Thank you so much sir,

someone else. Jake come up to Luke and said: “Thank you for saving me, I’ve became this now, someone kind like you.” Luke replied: “You’re welcome, and help people wisely.”

you don’t know how much that helped me, that is so kind of you.”

“I will, again thank you.”

“You’re welcome, and I hope you and your family are okay.”

“You’re welcome.”

Next year Luke and his wife had a child. He, their little son, was born with a foot infection. So Luke had to pay £50 to help his son. But Luke found Jake again sitting down crying. Luke didn’t know happened so he went to ask. “Jake, what’s wrong?” “L-L-Luke? I-i-i-is that you again?”

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Maryam A, 9

I heard them say: “Why are we bullying when the world is already sad? We should change and say sorry.” While I walked into school and then school was about end my last day with

City of Kindness Hi, my name is Mia and I would like you to sit right there and just imagine how great it would be to live in a city full of kindness! It sounds great, doesn’t it? Well, it is! It all started when I was walking home from school I saw a

PSHE! The PSHE teacher held out my poster and asked: “Whoever posted this has a good heart because even in the rough times, people need love and kindness!”

homeless person asking for food. I immediately wanted to give some money

Then me and my friends got the courage and told the teacher! After school,

but a guy came up to the homeless man and gave him £50! I was astonished

I had a phone call, thinking it was my mother. I had a look, it was The Star

about how that man had so much money. When I got home I thought in

and News reporter Joe Blackberry. I immediately answered and heard a voice

my room, what would it be like if everyone was like this? With no hate or

saying: “Hi, I’m Joe Blackberry and I have seen your posters everywhere!

agony, just pure love and kindness. I then started to put up posters with my

Please, tell me your name.”

friends Ash and Maria and it took us all the weekend to make these posters! When we were finished we decided to hang them all up around the city. When we hung them all up me and my friends looked through my bedroom window and many people were reading posters and smiling! We were all so happy and with excitement when I saw two random strangers talking and smiling! It turned to night and my friend went home. When I was in bed I

I answered: “My name is Mia Hind!” He told me about telling the whole city about your poster! I immediately said yes and came running home in my room screaming with joy! When I woke up I jumped out of bed and saw everybody hugging and talking. Then I went with my family out in the city and everyone were smiling and kind!

dreamt of the whole city being like this, no fights, all peace, lots of kindness and love also respect. Everyone was happy and nobody thought of hate. It was like paradise! When I woke up my mum made me breakfast and my dad gave me a kiss. While I was walking to school I saw more and more people reading the posters and talking while smiling it made me extremely happy! Then what made me even more happier was that the school bullies read the posters and

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Roza S, 10

started to do what Richard did, boast. Time went on and the lady got more selfish, and more... until she decided to give money to people in need, she decided she had to be kind and make people smile.

City of Kindness There once was a man who boasted all day long. He boasted about his wealth, his home, and his belonging. This man was called Richard. Richard never thought about others, only himself. He thought everyone was a beggar. Beggars, who scam, sad beggars which love money. He only thought this because of his past experience. Richards’s mother scammed people out of their money, his father worked as a beggar, getting as much money as possible

She did just that and was praised. Kindness was passed on, from England to the rest of the world. This was one of the biggest things the world had over achieved kindness. The world carried on to be the kindest, but when people changed their ways, and started to become selfish, people decided to be kind to them, so they know what would happen if they were kind. Kindness is contagious.

and then driving home in his car. One day, when Richard came home from work he saw an old lady begging

Sameera R, 10

for food. Richard came home decided to question the lady with questions like, “How old are you?” “What are you doing?” “Why are you doing this?” The lady didn’t answer, she started doing sign language. Richard was confused. He walked off and asked pedestrians if they could understand her. None of them cared, until Richard gave up and decided to be kind for once. His memories went through his head and gave him flashbacks of his parents going to jail for begging. He brought out his wallet and took out £200 because he thought it wold help. Richard handed it to the old lady and walked off.

City of Kindness One day there was a young girl named Arro. She had rosy red lips and beautiful fair skin. She loved to take care of the world and every day after school she would take the longest path home so she could clean the environment and to collect rather strange flowers to put them in her room. It was a normal day coming back home but that’s when she saw a humongous

A couple of days later the lady decided to buy a lottery ticket. She scratched it off and gasped in excitement. She won! All because of Richard and his heart. The lady went back to the place she was begging and decided to give back to Richard. She brought out £2,000 and waited for him to pass by but he never did. Turns he lost his job and moved to another country. The lady 68

bumpy-looking mountain in the distance she couldn’t quite figure out what it was she slowly, step by step, walked towards it. It was not a mountain. In fact it was some sort of beast. Arro wasn’t afraid. She touched it slowly and it roared as loud as two hundr4ed children screaming loudly at once. It got up and looked at Arro. It was nothing she’d seen before, Arro was absolutely

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Violet A, 10

amazed. She had never studied this before she quietly asked: “What is your name” He replied it was Zander. She explained to Zander how he could not stay here because of how dirty the environment was and he would get sick.

City of Kindness Once there was a girl, her mum lived in an apartment, the girl’s name was

Zander refused. He was happy and liked it there she pleaded with him and

Jenna. Jenna was very excited about the Christmas party that day. So Jenna

he still refused. Zander said: “I am a Never Beast, this used to be my home.”

put on her best clothes for the occasion. She grabbed her bag and said

Arro was heartbroken because her people destroyed it. She made a deal with

goodbye to her mum. She walked down the long set of stairs to the ground

Zander, he could stay her if he helped to clean the forest and pick up all the

floor. As soon as she stepped outside the cold air drifted past her face and

litter on the ground. He agreed happily and they started straight away. Arro

shoved through her long, black hair. “The cold winter days have just started,”

was delighted but where would they start?

she said to herself.

Day after day, more than five bags of litter was collected. Arro repeated:

When Jenna got to school she was in awe, she couldn’t stop staring at the

“kindness doesn’t cost anything doing something kind could make someone’s

expensive decorations hung all around her class room. As Jenna had walked

day!” They worked and worked to make the streets of Peru nice again.

to school she was a bit late. She dropped her bag next to her desk and

Zander introduced his friend, Damion, to Arro she was so happy that Zander had a friend his own kind. Damion didn’t like Arro at first, but later on, after

sat down. She was reading a sign above the white board, waiting for her punishment. Her teacher, Miss Salty, slowly walked over to her desk.

she saw what she did, Damion was astonished at the sight and state of the

Shaking her head, teacher said: “Jenna, Jenna. How many times do I have

forest. It looked somehow close to what it looked likw before it was ruined.

to tell you to stop being late?”

Finally, everything looked amazing the Never Beasts came from far away.

Jenna replied: “Miss I –“

Arro knew she didn’t only help the Never Beasts, her kindness spread around and more people took care of the land. It also inspired people to go on walks since it was so clean. A small act of kindness can go a very long way and it can help people you may not even know! What can you do to be kind to everyone around you? You could use your manners or hold the door or maybe pick up some litter. 70

But Miss Salty butted in: “I don’t want to hear it!” Jenna tried, but the teacher ignored her. Miss Salty announced: “Everyone come to the front of the class for a group photo.” All of the kids raced up to the front, made a line and showed off their outfits to the teacher, Miss Salty. Miss Salty had a furious look on her face as she

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Lacie

saw what Jenna was wearing. Miss Salty shouted: “Why are you wearing a blue shirt for Christmas?” Jenna tried to say “Well I –“ but again Miss butted: “I don’t want excuses,

The Meadows Primary Academy

you’re just lazy!” Jenna was shouted at. Miss ordered her to stand behind Lola and Billy, the bullies.

Caring people, with the biggest hearts

“Finally! It’s time for food!” Miss said. Miss Salty listed all the children, and

Incredible acts of kindness

finally got to Jenna. “Jenna!”

The people in need, request your help You know we can all be kind inside

“Yes miss?” she replied. “Why didn’t you bring the crisps?”

Open people's hearts - fill them with love

Jenna didn’t answer because she knew that her teacher would ignore her. Miss Salty said she was at the back of the line to eat.

Follow rules, to make the world a better place Kindness is good for everyone

It was the end of the day after class had ended, Miss Satly set at her desk and

Inspire others to help people in need

read the letters that the children had written to Santa. She decided to read

Notice others that need our assistance

Jenna’s. Miss Satly shocked when she saw that all Jenna wanted was food and

Do remarkable things

new clothes! Miss Satly ran out of the school into the pouring rain to Jenna’s

Never give up, never give in

mum’s apartment. When she got there Jenna let her straight in because she

Extra support for friends and family

was very wet.

Stay safe, stay confident

Miss Satly had brought her presents from Santa! She opened them with

Stoke-On-Trent City, the City of kindness

a smile. Santa brough her brand new clothes and lots of food. Miss Salty helped them save up for a house and they were all happily friends.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Oliver

Kindness is a happy thing, It always makes you want to sing.

The Meadows Primary Academy

Everybody is happy, If you can be kind to me.

What is Kindness?

Linda N, 10

Kindness is a happy thing, It always makes you want to sing.

City of Kindness

Everybody is happy,

Imagine a place where happiness lurks in every corner, where no one is afraid,

If you can be kind to me.

where everyone helps each other. In this extraordinary city all this is possible.

Somebody's hurt,

One ordinary autumn day, the sun was shining bright and the wind roughly

What should you do?

blew as the colourful leaves danced through the sky. The school bell rang

You should help them

exactly at 12 o’clock and the doors flew open. Kids screamed and ran outside

It will help you.

and sat next to their friends. Except a small girl she sat on the cold hard ground. She opened her lunch bag, she took her lunch out and noticed a

Stoke-On-Trent's,

smelly spotty banana, her smile turned upside down. After a while, a tall,

The kindest place.

brown haired boy walked up to her and gave her a bright, ripe apple. Her

Locals put smiles,

day brightened up and her lips stretched out as far as they could and the

On your face.

boy reminded her, “One smile can change everything!”

Hanley, Longton, Tunstall too, They will all be kind to you. Fenton, Trentham, also Stoke, You will find a joyful bloke.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Mason

Riley

The Meadows Primary Academy

Dear Journal,

Local legend saves homeless person

Today I decided to surprise my dad by buying him a ticket to his favourite

Last year, on the 21st of December 2020, a homeless man received the best

opera singer Renée Fleming. Earlier I gave him the ticket. He was ecstatic!

gift of their life, as a person call Jeff donated £50,000 and a car. That present

You see, sadly my dad is disabled so there is not a lot of stuff he can do.

changed his life forever.

He works as a Student Wellbeing Advisor but he gets the easy jobs. Before the accident my dad, James Mochilas, used to be a mechanic but as he was working on a 2003 Toyota Corolla the lift malfunctioned causing severe damage to his legs since then he has been in a wheelchair.

Bob, who was 37 and originally from Australia, found himself homeless and without any personal possessions when he first came to the country several years ago. He was robbed of his items while he was searching the country for somewhere to set up home and start a new job. Eventually, he made his

We live on Blurton Road, in Stoke-On-Trent. My dad is the kindest person

way to Stoke-on-Trent where he found himself sleeping in a cardboard box

ever unfortunately his movements have become harder for him since his

in a shop doorway. With no family in the country to help, he was all alone.

accident. He thinks he is useless.

Bob described his life on the streets as torture since he had people bullying

At 8.30pm, we went to the opera house to see Renée Fleming. The house was so cool and giant. The show didn't take too long to start. She sounded amazing! The song she sang was 'You'll Never Know'. On the way back home, Dad wanted some popcorn so we got some.

him. In the winter months, it was especially difficult because he had no blankets or a roof over his head. It was also hard in the winter months since temperatures dropped below zero degrees, he described this as being as cold as a block of ice. Jeff, who is 35, built his own company from scratch. It helps homeless people

Good night.

by providing items such as a house, car, money and advice on how to get a job. He likes helping homeless people as he used to have nothing and was in a similar position until a kind hearted person helped him get a job even though he didn't have any experience or idea what he was doing.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Maizey

One month later, with the support of Jeff, Bob now has a job as an actor and has started earning tens of thousands of pounds. Even better, he now donates five percent – £500 – of his earnings to charities that help homeless people

The Meadows Primary Academy

to get homes in their favourite places. Since then, everybody around his hometown have been ever so happy with beautiful homes and fun families they decided to help other towns and then went on to create the 'City of Kindness' that would name a different City every year.

Theo

A while ago, I lived in an apartment and every day I would see a young girl while I was walking past my favourite shop. I would try to take a look at where she was going. One day, I saw her again so I decided to follow her. I hung back so she could not see me. As I turned the corner, she was on her knees, giving a homeless person some money, food, a sleeping bag and pillow. I thought this was so incredibly nice that I wanted to help too. I spread the

The Meadows Primary Academy

word to other local people and they started to do the same. I was so happy to see this. Two years later, I saw that same girl. I found her on a different street. She

Kind Land

begged me for money. She told me all about what had happened. She had

In the 23rd century there is amazing technology and gadgets. The first flying car

lost all her money due to her bills and rent increasing and found herself

was invented on the 19th of February 2315. Unimaginable houses were created in

homeless so I made a brilliant choice I gave her some money. I felt so warm

a blink of an eye. There was one place everyone wanted to see, Kind Land. It was

inside like a fire was in my stomach. I decided on £375. She was so happy!

the capital of all of the capitals.

I decided enough was enough; I needed to do more to help.

People can make a career there or make it a holiday to remember (that they will

Every day, I would give her choices of food and make sure she was safe. I

repeat year after year) for the rest of their existence. It's the only place in the world

decided I would not give her money but I would help her to find somewhere

with remote control robots that will help you in your everyday life like shopping,

to live. With lots of support and hard work, she finally found somewhere. I

cleaning, ironing.

was so glad to see this.

Every year there is one event in the whole city - the kind festival you can meet

A few weeks later, she was settled and finally happy. We are now the best of

your favourite celebrity there and at the end you can meet the one and only Oliver

friends and spend days out together like going shopping and going to the

Williams (he invented the flying car and with some friends he created Kind Land).

park to have a picnic.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Gabriella CS

They were human friends. “I’m a human!” said Pineapple.

The monkey with the golden heart There once was a monkey, his name was Pineapple. He had a golden heart and he lived in a jungle. Everyone laughed at him because he had a golden heart and everyone else had a red heart. He asked: “What’s so bad with having a golden heart?”

“And me!” said Dog. “Let’s go and show Chirpy,” said Dog. “Wow!” said Chirpy. “Sorry for what I said earlier,” said Chirpy.

“Everything,” said Chirpy Pie the bird. So Pineapple walked off all sad and alone. After a moment he heard a voice. “What’s wrong?” said the voice. It was a dog. “Well I have a golden heart and everyone laughs at me for having one.”

“You are forgiven.” “Let’s just say we have all shown kindness today,” said Pineapple. They all played happily together.

“I like your golden heart, I think it’s different. Just because you have a different heart does not mean I don’t like you.” “Do you want to come to the park with me?” “Yes please I would love that!” said Pineapple. So off they went as happy as can be. Pineapple went down the slide, then Dog and they took it in turns. “Let me just say to you Dog, that you have made me so happy. You share with me, you play with me, I don’t know what to say apart from a big thank you!” “That’s what friends are for,” said Dog. Then Pineapple and the dog hugged and... Kazoom! Whizz! Bang!

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Adam G, 10

Quratulain T, 11

City of Kindness

Kindness can break down barriers with words, a smile and touch, linking us

My aching heart pulsed in my chest as a flurry of lustrous tears engulfed

all, meaning so much. Armour is what you need to break free (from sadness)

me. They would never apprehend properly what I, the girl, who had been

and plead your effect can please.

demeaned, was going through. My head throbbed and wailed at me, as

Now, imagine a world fuelled by kindness, people showing their neighbour new things, showing concern. What a wonder it would be! Armour of peace, a sword of love and a cape showing no fear.

I shoved it deep into the pillow as my dry mouth clamped shut and my eyes cried softly, lulling me to sleep. A knock startled me from my stinging sleep, my eyes grew wide as I mouthed, no, no, no! Why couldn’t they just leave me be? My cheeks were still moist

Shoulders to cry on, heart-warming hugs as soft as a baby’s touch, feeling as

and the blood drained from them, my eyes were still glistening with tears and

if a fresh bandage wrapped around you.

were red and puffy. Climbing out of my comfort zone, I opened the door, but

A present driven by compassion, the generosity of laughter, a beaming smile as bright as a vibrant kite seen from afar. Giving a helping hand, kind acts and more. Kindness is global glue binding us all together but others are blind to see, peace we can find love in our minds, as smile on our face, a world divine.

to my discomfort no one was there! I just wanted someone to be there for me. I walked to the bus stop, thinking that the weather matched my mood, grey clouds and a torrent of remorseless rain. Walking without thinking, I bumped into a lady as she passed me an umbrella mouthing ‘you will need this’ and with a flurry of reflexes passed me a wooleln hat and gloves. My

The symptoms of kindness are varied, many types, but for some its rare as

heart thumped with happiness as further on a stranger smiled at me and a

others stare face down, feeling frightened feeling scared.

lady offered me a mint. I was the happiest person in the world. An act of

Could it be a monster of despair who would not share, who did not care,

kindness can lighten any burdened, any day.

happiness for all but didn’t restrain from anger after all, he could not bear. The more you love the more you will find that life is good and friends are kind... “For only what we give enriches us day by day” 82

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Fariha K, 11 Kindness Kindness is a little act of love. It can even be just a simple smile to brighten up a day. Kindness isn’t difficult, it’s just a good deed. Comforting, sharing or playing shows you that someone cares. There are many ways to show kindness. Drawing something for someone shows love, or you can write something out for somebody or you could just work together as a team, to support each other. In your heart you really do care, just show it to someone, anywhere. A person’s heart is as precious as a jewel and so is yours. You can go and do what you love. No matter what, whenever or wherever we are, we can show our love, to those who we care. Show concern for those needing comfort, keep involved, everyone can play a part, no matter what race or language, don’t leave people on their own, just show you care to those who seek your love. You can play a part in spreading kindness.

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

Participating Schools With thanks to the following schools, whose students’ wonderful work is included in this anthology: Kingsland CofE Academy The Meadows Primary Academy St George and St Martin's Catholic Academy St Mary's Catholic Academy St Peter's Catholic Academy St George and St Martin's Catholic Academy

The End

Hanley St Luke's CofE Aided Primary School St Mary's Catholic Academy Burnwood Community Primary School St Luke's Academy Endon St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School Summerbank Primary Academy St Mary's Catholic Academy Kingsland CofE Academy Saint Nathaniel's Academy St Filumena's Catholic Primary School St Peter's Catholic Academy The Meadows Primary Academy

Connecting Stories Anthology from Stoke-on-Trent

City of Kindness By Stoke-on-Trent Connecting Stories, funded by Arts Council England, aims to increase children and young people's interest in reading and writing, and to promote diverse voices and stories. Children and young people were invited to take part in a creative writing competition which has been judged by publishers, authors and community champions. This anthology celebrates their creativity and hard work. We hope all entrants feel extremely proud to see their story published and that this gives them the confidence and passion to continue writing.

'Congratulations to all the young writers featured in this anthology. I am so impressed by their imaginative and creative stories – a must-read!'

Jonathan Douglas CBE Chief Executive, National Literacy Trust