Heart People by Emily Start Acheson

Delightful new children’s book, Heart People, reminds young readers that kindness is key, and every heart matters.

Traverse City, Michigan—In her debut children’s book, Heart People, educator, artist, and mother of three, Emily Start Acheson invites young readers to discover the simple but powerful idea that empathy and understanding can shape the way we treat one another. Published by Nightlight Stories, an imprint of Mission Point Press, this charming and simple hand-drawn picture book encourages children to lead with kindness and recognize the importance of caring for others.

Inspired by her experiences in the classroom,  Acheson created Heart People to help young readers understand the value of empathy, respect and meaningful connection.  With colorful illustrations, gentle storytelling and easy-to-read language, children are sure to delight in the message and their ability to read it independently.  This book is sure to spark conversations about kindness both at home and in the classroom.

A Mosaic of Post-It Notes

The book began five years ago in her Minnesota art studio, where she developed the story using small 3-by-3-inch squares of paper. She first illustrated each scene, then added the words, arranging nearly 400 squares across her studio floor and moving them around to shape the narrative. The final work reflects this mosaic-like creative process.

At its core, the project encourages authentic human connection—especially for children in an increasingly fast-paced, technology-driven world. "In a world full of quick connecting 24/7, sometimes it's hard to feel connected," she said.  "In the classroom, I wanted to slow them down and help them connect by stopping, looking at each other, and actually talking and listening." Through both its imagery and message, the book reminds readers to observe, recognize, respect, and appreciate the world around them.

Advanced Praise

“Heart People is a wonderful addition to any classroom! The age-appropriate language, colorful illustrations, and positive themes help support early literacy and social-emotional learning. This book is great for sparking meaningful conversations among young heart people. It is truly full of heart!” said Carly Brown, M.Ed., kindergarten teacher in Excelsior, Minnesota.

With its heartfelt message and joyful illustrations, Heart People is a thoughtful addition to family libraries and classroom bookshelves alike, reminding readers of all ages that the world needs more heart people. A perfect gift for the heart people of any age in your life—this book is sure to brighten their day!

The Author

Emily Start Acheson is an artist, designer and educator who is passionate about sharing life lessons in a fun and simple way. Through heart people, Emily uses her lifetime of experience with children, her love for art and design and her global insight to share the truth that we are more alike than different when it comes to our hearts. Emily lives in Michigan with her husband, three children and pet tortoise Shelly. Heart People is her first book, demonstrating through humor, the simplicity, and truth of living life from the heart. You can contact her at asics2050@hotmail.com.

The Book

Heart People

Emily Start Acheson

32 pages, 8.5” x 8.5”, color

Juvenile Nonfiction / Concepts / General

Juvenile Nonfiction / Social Topics / Values & Virtues

Juvenile Nonfiction / Social Topics / General

ISBN: 978-1-968761-39-4, $26.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-968761-40-0, $18.95 (Softcover)

Publication Date: June 10, 2026

Published by Nightlight StoriesTM, an imprint of Mission Point Press

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. Booksellers and libraries, please use your IngramSpark accounts for purchase. On its June 10, 2026 publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at asics2050@hotmail.com.