Catalyst
Maya grew up where people rushed past each other, faces down in screens, sidewalks cracked and gardens forgotten. Then she found Catalyst City, a place where people remembered how to care, how to share, and how to live free.
- Ages 4 to 9
- 5 chapters
- Great for read-aloud and early readers
“It feels like something we used to know.”
When Maya arrived one sunny morning, her eyes widened. The streets buzzed with life: bold murals showed elders lifting baskets beside children planting gardens, hands raised in unity beneath banners that read “NDARI.” Laughter echoed from playgrounds, and vegetables grew proudly on every corner.
“Wow… this feels like a dream,” she whispered. A boy waved. “Hi! I’m Malik. Ready to explore?”
“Ready!” Maya grinned, and off they skipped into adventure.
Five chapters, five ways to care
Breakfast for Champions
The Free Breakfast Club at the Sunny Side Café, where no child starts the day hungry.
The Garden of Sharing
Ms. T, a mystery bag of seeds, and a planting chart everyone helps draw.
The Power of All of Us
Spilled berries, a library board full of helper notes, and the “All Together We Rise” fountain.
When Greed Lurks (A Tiny Test)
Sam sneaks extra bread, and Leila gently reminds him to save some for others.
NDARI Forever
A sunset mural, a sunflower seed, and Maya’s promise to bring NDARI home.
We didn’t invent this. We just brought it back.Malik, at the Free Breakfast Club
The big ideas in Book One
No one starts the day hungry
Share a snack, help a friend with homework, notice who needs something.
Like a puzzle, we finish together
When one person can’t finish, another helps. Even kids.
Gently, and with care
Leila doesn’t scold Sam. She reminds him, and he chooses to share.
A note for grown-ups
Chapter One mentions real heroes who started free breakfast programs for children in 1969. Our parents and teachers guide has a short, kid-friendly history to share, plus discussion questions for every chapter.
Try it after reading
- Plant one seed together, like Maya’s sunflower.
- Make a “helper notes” board at home or in class.
- Print the NDARI pledge and sign it as a family.
Want to know when Book One is on shelves?
Join the list for release news, the free Book One activity pack and the first look at Book Two.