Enthusiasm Reading List
Ripple’s Effect
by Shawn Achor and Amy Blankson, illustrated by CeciliaRebora
From Goodreads: “It takes big actions to make big changes. Or does it? In Ripple’s Effect, residents of an aquarium learn that sometimes a smile is all it takes to make a world of difference. Awash with charming illustrations, this delightful tale will show children that happiness is a choice they get to make for themselves.”
After reading the story to the class, process it with these or similar questions:
- Did you like the story of Ripple?
- Do you think Ripple could have been happy in a pool where he couldn’t express his happiness and be enthusiastic?
- Do you think Snark was happy being sad all the time?
- What is a ripple? Do you think enthusiasm can ripple like that?
- The next time you meet a sad person, do you think you remember Ripple and share your enthusiasm?
Click here to find the full list of books on Enthusiasm on our Goodreads shelf!

Good afternoon, I’m a children’s author, and just this past month, I published my second book on character development. I’m listed on Goodreads.com and perhaps I haven’t captured everything to make your list of character books. I will explore that but I would like to offer my two books for inclusion on your list.
Pitching for Success: Character Lessons, the Joe Nuxhall Way, is a fictional story about a little league pitcher who learns valuable character lessons on/off the field. His coach, who is also his father shares valuable character advice from the late, great Joe Nuxhall.
Riley’s Winning Catch, Good Character Prevails debuted in April and depicts a teenage girl with Down syndrome who wishes to be on a girls’ softball team. She is afraid of rejection but finds a caring coach who teaches character along with softball skills. Riley soon learns of the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League which is ultimately a better fit for her. I’d like to share copies with your organization.