One thing that always saddens me is when I see a situation between students that exemplifies a complete lack of compassion. I am constantly on the lookout for literature that highlights compassion and acceptance of differences in a way that doesn't overtly preach but allows students to draw their own conclusions. Looking After Louis, by Lesley Ely, is a lovely story told from the viewpoint of a student who notices that one new student in the class, a boy, is not being included. Through kindness, patience and a soccer game, the students learns how to accept this one boy into the classroom dynamic and gain sensitivity for the needs of others.
The boy depicted in this story has autism and at the end of the book, there is more information for adults about inclusion, mainstreaming and autism itself.
Tibby Tried It, by Sharon and Ernie Useman is a touching story about a bird with a bent wing who has not been able to find acceptance by the other birds. As he makes his way into the world, he becomes friends with a host of other animals who accept him for who his is and not for what he should be. This story has a lovely ending when Tibby saves the day and earns the respect of the other birds. While my students connect with the other animals that Tibby becomes friends with, they are distrustful of the other birds who only accept Tibby after he has been heroic. 
I feel that The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is open to interpretation and can be used for a variety of subjects. However, I love to use this book to discuss a balanced relationship and how friendships should not be one sided but filled with respect. Occasionally, I have students who get really angry at the boy who doesn't appear to understand the sacrifices the tree makes for him and this instigates deep and critical discussions about right and wrong.
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