Zara and the Mean Girl: The Courage of Kindness

Rebekah Hannah is a leader, business owner, and counselor with over two decades of ministry experience. She currently serves on staff at Redeemer Lincoln Square in New York City. She is also the President and CEO of Anchored Virtual, a virtual counseling resource, and recently launched Rode Leadership, a Christian leadership organization. Rebekah is the author of The Secret to Confidence and Zara and the Mean Girl. She and her husband, Andrew, have three daughters and reside in New York City.

Jocelyn Flenders is an editor and children’s author with a background in counseling and library science. She is the author of the Good News for Little Hearts series and Zara and the Mean Girl: The Courage of Kindness. She delights in inviting children into the story of faith. She lives just outside Philadelphia with her husband, two daughters, and two cats.

Lee Wildish became interested in art and illustration at a young age while doodling in math books and exploring famous works of art. After university, he worked as a graphic designer at an advertising agency before venturing into greeting card illustration. He has since been illustrating children’s books, often inspired by nature and people. He strives to fill his artwork with as much character and expression as he possibly can.

“It can be difficult to know how to respond wisely when our children share about unkind behavior from others. Thankfully, Zara and the Mean Girl by Rebekah Hannah and Jocelyn Flenders equips parents to navigate difficult peer relationships with their children. With warmth and wisdom, this story encourages conversations marked by kindness, grace, and the hope of the gospel.”

Melissa Kruger, VP of Discipleship Programming, The Gospel Coalition

“Rebekah Hannah beautifully reminds us that a simple act of kindness can brighten a day—and even change a life. More importantly, she points readers to our truest Friend, Jesus Christ, whose perfect love and kindness reconcile us to the Father. This charming story is sure to encourage young readers to both receive and extend Christlike kindness.”

Jonathan D. Holmes, Executive Director, CCEF

“Parents hurt when we see our kids hurting. How much more does Jesus hurt with us? I love the message behind Zara’s story—that God loves us fully and draws near to us when others are unkind. I look forward to sharing her tale of courageous kindness with my kids!”

Kristen Wetherell, Mom of three; author of What Makes You Beautiful and Teach Me to Pray