The Torn Heart

Inspired by a classroom activity that has taught countless children about kindness, this picture book is a moving and interactive story from the bestselling author of My Mouth is a Volcano.

Every heart carries feelings that bend, wrinkle, and sometimes break. Bestselling author Julia Cook’s empowering story follows one heart through hurt and healing, revealing how even small moments of unkindness can leave scars—and how compassion, reflection, responsibility, and a sincere “I’m sorry” help mend what was torn.

Inspired by a well-loved classroom activity using a cut-out paper heart and illustrated by a #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator, The Torn Heart shows readers that empathy isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we do. Together.
A back-to-school essentialOffers a clear lesson in an interactive formatPerfect for parents, teachers, and homeschoolersEnds on a proactive, empowering note