But Always Choose Kindness
Veteran teacher and author Mary Mock writes children’s books that inspire kindness, patience, and friendship in young readers.
Mary Mock
Mary Mock has spent 25 years in the classroom teaching children not just how to read, but how to treat one another. Her debut book, If You Could Be Anything, brings that same quiet wisdom to the page. Through relatable characters and gentle storytelling, Mary writes the kind of stories that stay with a child long after the last page is turned. Because she believes the most important lesson anyone can learn is also the simplest: be kind.
If You Could Be Anything
What happens when a shy new kid walks into your classroom, and you don’t know what to say? If You Could Be Anything follows Lulu as she learns that kindness doesn’t have to be loud or grand; sometimes it’s just a deep breath and a little patience. A warm, honest story that gently introduces the topic of stuttering and reminds every child: the best thing you can be is kind.
What's Inside the Book
Kindness Matters
Small acts of patience and kindness can help someone feel safe, accepted, and truly valued.
Courageous Friendship
Standing up for a friend shows bravery, loyalty, and the power of compassionate friendship.
Understanding Differences
The story teaches children to understand and respect differences with empathy instead of judgment.
Video Trailer
What Our Readers Say
“I read this with my 7-year-old son, and he got really quiet during the bus scene when the girl made fun of Roy. Later he told me, ‘I dont want kids to feel like that.’ That moment alone made this book worth reading. Lulu felt like a real child, not a perfect character, and I loved how Grandma kept gently guiding her instead of lecturing.”
“As a parent of a child who stutters, this book hit me hard in the best way. Most childrens books either ignore speech differences or make the child seem helpless. Roy wasnt helpless, he was shy, embarrassed, hopeful, and brave all at once. The baseball scene was beautifully done and felt so real. Thank you Mary Mock for handling this topic with care.”
