Watch the story behind the movement
Character for Kids presents
The Donkey in the Mill
A story about humility, quiet sacrifice and legacy.
Worksheets
Download some free worksheets based on our book 'The Donkey in the Mill'.
What is Character for Kids?
A new series of beautifully illustrated children's books that explore timeless values through gentle storytelling.
Founded by Carmel Assaf, Character for Kids is more than a publishing project, it's a movement to help children grow in heart and character.
Each book in the series focuses on a single virtue, like humility, courage, gratitude or patience, and is written to spark meaningful conversations between children and the adults who love and guide them.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Carmel — the writer and mum behind Character for Kids.
I created this project because I believe children’s stories can do more than entertain. They can plant seeds of character, spark conversations, and gently shape the hearts and minds of the next generation.
As a mum of four and a qualified teacher, I’ve spent years surrounded by little ones, in classrooms, on lounge room floors, at bedtime, and I’ve seen just how powerful stories can be. They’re not just pages and pictures. They’re mirrors, maps and anchors for young hearts.
Character for Kids is my way of offering families stories that emotionally and spiritually nourish children. Each book in the series is built around a core virtue (such as sacrifice, kindness, resilience, wonder), and aims to inspire meaningful conversations between parents and kids, without preaching or overcomplicating.
Every story is gently told, beautifully illustrated, and written with a deep respect for the goodness children are capable of. I want these books to sit proudly on shelves, to be shared at bedtime, in classrooms, and in quiet one-on-one moments, not just as entertainment, but as a companion in raising children of strength and character.
‘The Donkey in the Mill’ is the first story in this movement, and I’d love your support.
About the Book
The Donkey in the Mill is the first book in the series.
It follows a group of animals who each think they are the most important — until a sudden crisis reveals that it was the humble donkey quietly keeping everything running.
This story gently explores:
Humility and service
Gratitude
Quiet leadership
The value of unseen effort
Want to be first to know when the book is available?
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More titles are on the way!
Each one will introduce a new virtue, a new set of characters, and a new conversation for your family or classroom.
