Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

Q: What is *Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE* about?

*Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE* is a curated anthology of 100+ true stories celebrating human kindness, from strangers paying it forward to communities rallying during crises. Co-authored by Upworthy’s Head of Content Gabriel Reilich and VP Lucia Knell, the book combines viral social media sensibilities with deeply moving narratives, illustrated to amplify their emotional impact. Themes include empathy, resilience, and small acts with outsized effects.

Q: Is *GOOD PEOPLE* worth reading?

A *New York Times* bestseller, *GOOD PEOPLE* is praised for its “perspective-changing salve” that restores faith in humanity. With stories like a landlord easing a tenant’s grief and a teacher helping a child accept differences, it’s a compelling choice for readers prioritizing emotional nourishment over sensationalism.

Q: What are the main themes in *GOOD PEOPLE*?

Key themes include: - **Everyday heroism** (e.g., a baker rallying his community) - **Unexpected connections** (e.g., a toddler comforting a sick traveler) - **Resilience through kindness** (e.g., a waitress given life-changing support)

Q: How does *GOOD PEOPLE* compare to *Humans of New York*?

Both highlight human resilience, but *GOOD PEOPLE* focuses specifically on actionable kindness, blending Upworthy’s data-driven virality with National Geographic’s narrative depth. Stories are shorter and paired with illustrations, optimized for quick, impactful consumption.

Q: How is *GOOD PEOPLE* structured?

The book organizes stories into thematic chapters like *It’s the Little Things* and *When I Needed It Most*, each opening with a commentary on the featured virtue. Stories are paired with minimalist illustrations to enhance emotional resonance.

Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE

Gabriel Reilich & Lucia Knell

4.19 (926 Reviews)

Inspiration

Self-growth

Society

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Author

FAQs

Discover 100+ heartwarming stories that made the NYT Bestseller list, praised by Elizabeth Gilbert as "a balm and treasure." In a world of doom-scrolling, what if the antidote to cynicism is hidden in these everyday acts of extraordinary kindness?

What is Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE about?

Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE is a curated anthology of 100+ true stories celebrating human kindness, from strangers paying it forward to communities rallying during crises. Co-authored by Upworthy’s Head of Content Gabriel Reilich and VP Lucia Knell, the book combines viral social media sensibilities with deeply moving narratives, illustrated to amplify their emotional impact. Themes include empathy, resilience, and small acts with outsized effects.

Who should read GOOD PEOPLE?

This book is ideal for readers seeking hope amid today’s divisive headlines, fans of Humans of New York or Chicken Soup for the Soul, and anyone interested in psychology-driven storytelling. Educators, parents, and mental health advocates will also find it a tool for fostering optimism.

Is GOOD PEOPLE worth reading?

A New York Times bestseller, GOOD PEOPLE is praised for its “perspective-changing salve” that restores faith in humanity. With stories like a landlord easing a tenant’s grief and a teacher helping a child accept differences, it’s a compelling choice for readers prioritizing emotional nourishment over sensationalism.

What are the main themes in GOOD PEOPLE?

Key themes include:

Everyday heroism (e.g., a baker rallying his community)
Unexpected connections (e.g., a toddler comforting a sick traveler)
Resilience through kindness (e.g., a waitress given life-changing support)

Who are Gabriel Reilich and Lucia Knell?

Gabriel Reilich (Head of Content at Upworthy) and Lucia Knell (Upworthy’s VP) are social media pioneers behind viral campaigns for Google, the UN, and NGOs. Reilich, a UC Berkeley grad, transformed Upworthy into a global brand, while Knell advocates for mental health and positivity online.

How does GOOD PEOPLE compare to Humans of New York?

Both highlight human resilience, but GOOD PEOPLE focuses specifically on actionable kindness, blending Upworthy’s data-driven virality with National Geographic’s narrative depth. Stories are shorter and paired with illustrations, optimized for quick, impactful consumption.

What is the most impactful story in GOOD PEOPLE?

“The Kindest of Strangers”—where a diner regular funds a waitress’s education—exemplifies the book’s theme of transformative generosity. Other standouts include “Learn by Heart,” about a teacher’s creative inclusion of a student with an eye patch.

How is GOOD PEOPLE structured?

The book organizes stories into thematic chapters like It’s the Little Things and When I Needed It Most, each opening with a commentary on the featured virtue. Stories are paired with minimalist illustrations to enhance emotional resonance.

Can GOOD PEOPLE help with anxiety or negativity?

Yes. The authors intentionally counter “mean world syndrome” by spotlighting decency, making it a recommended read for those feeling overwhelmed by negativity. Its bite-sized stories allow for daily positivity microdoses.

Where can I buy GOOD PEOPLE?

Available globally since September 3, 2024, through major retailers like Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and indie bookstores. The 320-page hardcover (ISBN 9781426223464) retails for $24.99.

Why is GOOD PEOPLE relevant in 2025?

In an era of AI-driven disconnection and polarized media, the book’s human-centric stories offer a grounding reminder of shared values. Its focus on community aligns with post-pandemic shifts toward collective well-being.

Are there discussion guides for GOOD PEOPLE?

While not explicitly mentioned, the book’s thematic chapters and discussion-worthy stories make it suitable for book clubs. Educators can use tales like “The Kids Are All Right” to spark conversations about empathy.

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Introduction: The Power of Human Kindness

00:00

In a world often dominated by negative headlines and cynicism, it's easy to forget the inherent goodness that exists within humanity. That's why we at Upworthy decided to create this book - to remind you, our readers, of the incredible capacity for kindness, compassion, and generosity that resides in each of us. As we sifted through countless stories shared by our community of millions, we were struck by the breadth and depth of human experiences. From small acts of kindness to life-changing moments of connection, these stories paint a vivid picture of our shared humanity. They serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of compassion. In the following pages, you'll find a collection of stories that will warm your heart, bring tears to your eyes, and restore your faith in the fundamental goodness of people. These are not grand gestures or heroic acts - though those certainly have their place. Instead, these are everyday moments of kindness, often between strangers, that ripple outward and change lives in ways both big and small.

Part 1: The Kindest of Strangers

Part 2: It's the Little Things

Part 3: The Kids Are All Right

Part 4: When I Needed It Most

Part 5: Away From Home

Conclusion: Be the Good

Explore Your Way of Learning

Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Inspiration. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

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@Cashflowbubu

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@SofiaP

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@Jaded_Falcon

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@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

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@Cashflowbubu

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Upworthy - GOOD PEOPLE by Gabriel Reilich & Lucia Knell Summary

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