“A gorgeous book that celebrates how simple acts of kindness can uphold the right to safety.”

Hello! (UK) / Counting Kindness (US)

1 boat…helping us on our way; 5 wishes…giving us hope; 10 friends… making us happy. Come with a family as they travel out of danger to a safe place and are shown all sorts of kindness along the way. This unique counting book is full of empathy and hope for all children, everywhere.

The book, published in 2020-21 by Otter-Barry Books and publishers in 10 countries, is illustrated by Barroux and endorsed by Amnesty International.

Illustrations by Barroux

10% of author royalties will be donated to Amnesty International UK Section to support human rights including those of child refugees.

Readings, activities & extras

Q&A with Hollis & Barroux
Hollis reads Hello! (UK) on youtube
How Barroux draws the bird
Activities for children
Activities for school and home by Hollis & Barroux

Credits: illustrator Barroux and UK publisher Otter-Barry Books. Music for drawing a bird by Alfie Gidley.

Events

Event categories filter children’s books – upcoming

Judging Young Authors Fiction Festival (YAFF)

Hollis will again be judging this year’s YAFF at the American Library in Paris.
1 April, 2026
more event info

Moderating “What’s Next? The Future of Transatlantic Relations”

Hollis interviews Douglas Jones, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State
9 April, 2026
18:30 (pm)
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20:00 (pm)
more event info

2026 East Hampton Library Children’s Fair

With carnival rides and games, a book fair with children’s book authors, delicious treats and more.
9 August, 2026
14:00 (pm)
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17:30 (pm)
more event info

Endorsements