Watch the story behind the movement
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What is Character for Kids?
A new series of beautifully illustrated children's books that explore timeless values through gentle storytelling.
Founded by Carmel Assaf, Character for Kids is more than a publishing project, it's a movement to help children grow in heart and character.
Each book in the series focuses on a single virtue, like humility, courage, gratitude or patience, and is written to spark meaningful conversations between children and the adults who love and guide them.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Carmel, the writer and mum behind Character for Kids.
I created this project because I believe children’s stories can do more than entertain. They can plant seeds of character, spark conversations, and gently shape the hearts and minds of the next generation.
As a mum of four and a qualified teacher, I’ve spent years surrounded by little ones in classrooms, on lounge room floors, at bedtime, and I’ve seen just how powerful stories can be. They’re not just pages and pictures. They’re mirrors, maps, and anchors for young hearts.
Character for Kids is my way of offering families stories that emotionally and spiritually nourish children. Each book in the series is built around a core virtue, such as kindness, humility, resilience, and self-worth, and aims to inspire meaningful conversations between parents and kids, without preaching or overcomplicating.
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Every story is gently told, beautifully illustrated, and written with a deep respect for the goodness children are capable of. I want these books to sit proudly on shelves, to be shared at bedtime, in classrooms, and in quiet one-on-one moments, not just as entertainment, but as companions in raising children of strength and character.
The Donkey in the Mill was the first story in this movement. Nola the Beautiful Monkey continues that journey, exploring identity, kindness, and what it truly means to be beautiful.
About Our Books
The Donkey in the Mill marked the beginning of the Character for Kids series, introducing themes of humility and quiet strength.
The journey continues with Nola the Beautiful Monkey, a tender story that helps children reflect on identity, kindness, and what it truly means to be beautiful.
Every Character for Kids book is created to nurture virtue, spark meaningful conversations, and support children as they grow in heart and character.
About Donkey in the Mill
The Donkey in the Mill is the first book in the series.
It follows a group of animals who each think they are the most important — until a sudden crisis reveals that it was the humble donkey quietly keeping everything running.
This story gently explores:
Humility and service
Gratitude
Quiet leadership
The value of unseen effort
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This story gently explores:
Identity
Kindness
Self-worth
Beauty comes from the heart
About Nola the Beautiful Monkey
Nola the Beautiful Monkey is a heartfelt story about identity, kindness, and discovering true beauty.
Through Nola’s journey across the world, children encounter colourful animals, diverse environments, and meaningful lessons that gently guide them toward understanding self-worth and compassion.
Written for children aged 3–8, the story offers layered meaning that grows alongside them, making it just as meaningful for parents, educators, and caregivers.
Nola the Beautiful Monkey is part of the Character for Kids series, alongside The Donkey in the Mill.
Want to be the first to know when new books in the series are available?
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More titles are on the way!
Each one will introduce a new virtue, a new set of characters, and a new conversation for your family or classroom.
