What's Happening?
Oscar Award-winning actor Goldie Hawn and bestselling author Lin Oliver are collaborating on a new middle grade series titled 'The After-School Kindness Crew' for Penguin Workshop. The series will debut on May 5, 2026, with its first installment, 'Pooch
on the Loose,' featuring illustrations by Breanna Chambers. The story follows fourth-graders Tony, Mia, and River as they navigate interpersonal dramas using kindness and mindfulness. The series is inspired by the Goldie Hawn Foundation’s MindUP program, which provides resources for children to learn emotional and stress management. MindUP, founded in 2003, serves over seven million children in 48 countries. The series aims to promote values of kindness, self-awareness, and empathy.
Why It's Important?
The launch of 'The After-School Kindness Crew' series is significant as it aligns with the growing emphasis on emotional intelligence and mindfulness in children's education. By integrating these principles into engaging narratives, the series has the potential to positively influence young readers' social and emotional development. The collaboration between Hawn and Oliver brings together expertise in entertainment and literature, potentially reaching a wide audience and encouraging discussions around kindness and empathy. The series also highlights the impact of the MindUP program, showcasing its principles through relatable stories that can resonate with children globally.
