Austin-based organization Dude. Be Nice is set to launch a children’s book titled ‘Dude. Be Nice,’ aimed at spreading kindness and encouraging meaningful conversations about helping others.
The story follows a bear named Dude who devises a plan to perform nice deeds for his friends. However, through a series of mishaps, he discovers that a crucial aspect of kindness is understanding how others wish to be supported.
Authors Brent Camalich and Jamie Lynn Camalich shared insights about their journey in creating this book and their aspirations for conversations it will inspire. During an interview, they reflected on the origin of the project and the collaborative efforts that culminated in the book.
Brent explained that they started the Dude. Be Nice brand over a decade ago, celebrating people making positive impacts across the country. The organization gained recognition through the Dude. Be Nice Project—a series dedicated to appreciating remarkable individuals.
The idea for the book emerged when children’s book author Sarah Scheerger stumbled upon one of their videos and expressed interest in collaborating. She envisioned a project that would convey the importance of inspiring others to treat themselves and one another with kindness.
Both Brent and Jamie were thrilled at the prospect and began the lengthy process of turning the idea into reality.
Jamie, currently working in elementary education, emphasized their goal to tailor the message about kindness specifically for young readers. Alongside Sarah, whose background includes counseling, they collaborated to create a story that balances humor and depth.
As they developed the narrative, the trio focused on crafting a silly yet poignant tale that opens up discussions about what it truly means to be kind.
Brent added that after a long search for the right illustrator, they found Alex MacNaughton from England—who illustrated the book. This partnership transformed their ideas into vibrant characters, giving life to Dude and his friends.
What sets the book apart is its fresh perspective on kindness, as Jamie illustrated with examples from her classroom. Commonly, the message surrounding kindness revolves around jumping in to help, but the characters contend with the nuances of approaching kindness correctly.
The whimsical disasters Dude faces highlight the unpredicted consequences of overly enthusiastic attempts to help—teaching children that listening and asking about needs can sometimes trump simply providing solutions.
Brent and Jamie hope that their story encourages children to think critically about their actions and intentions. They aim to foster deeper understanding and patience within friendships among young readers.
Throughout the writing process, the authors received feedback prompting them to refine their message. Initially, the concept focused broadly on acts of kindness, but as they developed Dude’s character, the book morphed into a celebration of understanding rather than merely listing kind actions.
Dude’s well-intentioned efforts highlight the importance of recognizing that not everyone seeks immediate resolution—an essential lesson for children to learn.
Surveying their vision for the book’s impact, Brent expressed his hopes for laughter and meaningful dialogue during shared reading experiences.
They aspire to create opportunities for parents and children to engage with important themes around kindness in a fun, approachable manner, weaving in playful interactions.
Jamie underscored the book’s intent as a catalyst for connection, remarking on the beautiful moments that stem from discussions following the story.
Through ‘Dude. Be Nice,’ both their professional and personal experiences create a foundation that champions kindness and promotes deeper connections among readers and loved ones alike.
By emphasizing the idea that kindness isn’t just about actions but also about understanding the needs and wishes of others, Brent and Jamie hope to inspire a new generation to think thoughtfully about their interactions.
This innovative approach is destined to resonate with children and adults alike, establishing a framework for navigating friendships and empathizing with peers.
As the release date nears, the authors express their excitement and anticipation for the conversations their book will spark.
Ultimately, ‘Dude. Be Nice’ seeks to blend humor with a heartfelt message, allowing young readers to explore broader themes surrounding kindness, connection, and understanding in an engaging format.
image source from：tpr
