Publishers Weekly
★ 01/23/2017
Debut author and motivational speaker Velasquez delivers a heartfelt and powerful treatise about the importance of being kind, gleaned from first-hand experience. The author, who has neonatal progeroid syndrome, a rare combination of Marfan syndrome and lipodystrophy that prevents her from gaining weight, was bullied in school and online. One day she found that a picture of her had been made into a cruel meme that identified her as the “world’s ugliest woman,” accompanied by comments like “Why didn’t her parents abort her?” “Not one comment was kind,” Velasquez remembers. Velasquez’s solution to this kind of harassment is to create a “culture of kindness,” extended even toward bullies. This might seem inconceivable, she admits, but she believes it’s the only way to solve the problem of bullying. She also points out that serious challenges can bring personal depth and understanding that’s impossible without those lessons. The author doesn’t pretend to be a Pollyanna, however—like anyone else, she has faced dark times, even becoming for a time addicted to anti-anxiety meds. Velasquez counsels readers to lose the shame over their problems—it’s a complete waste of time and energy—and focus on their own gifts. Readers will be inspired by Velasquez’s resilient spirit. Agent: Cassie Hanjian, Waxman Leavell Literary. (June)
From the Publisher
"[A] heartfelt and powerful treatise about the importance of being kind, gleaned from first-hand experience...Readers will be inspired by Velasquez's resilient spirit."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"Lizzie Velasquez is making our culture a kinder one by encouraging people to undermine hate through self-acceptance and everyday acts of empathy. Her heart and humor shine through on every page!"—Lilly Singh, entertainer, comedianand author of How to Be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life
"Lizzie's story should be mandatory reading for everyone. It's powerful, inspirational, and will leave you with hope that there is good in this world; Lizzie is leading that movement with her words and passion."—Justine Ezarik, author of The New York Times bestseller I,Justine: An Analog Memoir
"Lizzie is a true inspiration with a powerful and positive message. In a world where anyone can be bullied online, her story and insightful advice are the perfect guide to finding your own way."—Rosanna Pansino, author of the New York Times bestsellerNerdy Nummies Cookbook
"Eschewing victimhood, Velasquez argues that everyone struggles with valleys in life and though her valley is rarer, it is no different in depth and impact.
This is a wonderful and fast read, full of vitality that captures the luminous spirit of kindness that
Velasquez so beautifully embodies."—Booklist
"Lizzie Velasquez's courage and compassion shine through as she shares her inspirational journey. No matter what challenges you face in life, Dare to Be Kind can help you find the strength to overcome them."—Amy Morin, author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do
"Lizzie Velasquez is proof that the only way to make a dream happen is to believe in it. No matter what anyone saysespecially the voice in your own head. She dares us to be kind to each other, love ourselves, and become the cheerleader in our own life's story."—LaurenZander, Co-Founder of Handel Group and author of Maybe It's You: Cut theCrap, Face Your Fears, Love Your Life
"Lizzie Valasquez touched me. And I'm so glad she did. (Take this in the least creepiest way possible.) Her story, her strength and her kindness are not only inspirational to me, but to millions. And to millions more! This incredible book needs to come with every bedside table, coffee table and school desk around."—Liza Koshy, comedian and social media personality
"I dare to be more like Lizzie! People full of love and light are the ones that are setting the bar for all of us. Dare to Be Kind is incredible and I'm so excited to see what else is in store for this lovely lady! Spread love always."—Miles McKenna, actor, comedian and LGBTQ+activist
"Lizzie's message of spreading kindness and positivity is one that speaks to all ages. I loved Dare to Be Kind!"—AmymarieGaertner, actress, dancer andsocial media personality