In a time when headlines often highlight negativity and division, Upworthy – GOOD PEOPLE: Stories From the Best of Humanity provides a much-needed antidote. This beautifully illustrated collection of 101 heartwarming stories of human decency, curated by the team at Upworthy, brings together inspiring moments of kindness that remind us that humanity is, at its core, good.
Upworthy, the beloved social media platform known for spreading positivity, has channeled its mission into this book, featuring personal stories shared by its millions of followers. These tales, sourced from everyday people, answer questions like: Who’s the teacher that changed your life? and What’s the kindest thing a stranger has ever done for you? Each chapter is packed with emotion, humor, and the type of honesty that only comes from real-life experiences. Alongside longer stories, readers will find lighthearted anecdotes and whimsical drawings that capture the essence of these moments.
Kristen Bell calls GOOD PEOPLE an "essential" book, and fellow stars like Jennifer Garner and Sheryl Crow have sung its praises for bringing much-needed joy and hope to readers. It’s a testament to Upworthy’s mission of elevating stories of kindness and compassion, which has made it one of the internet’s most cherished platforms.
Behind the scenes of this project is Gabriel Reilich, head of content and innovation at GOOD & Upworthy. A firm believer that the internet can be used to amplify the best of humanity, Reilich has spent his career creating content that spreads optimism. His work with renowned organizations like Google, GoFundMe, and the World Food Programme reflects his dedication to making the digital world a place for positive change. Reilich, a UC Berkeley graduate, is also known for his knack for perfecting puns and his love of classic country music—traits that add a personal touch to the stories selected for this collection.
Joining Reilich in this endeavor is Upworthy’s Vice President, Lucia Knell. Knell has transformed Upworthy into a beacon of kindness and positivity under her leadership, based on her belief that media can unite people rather than divide them. A graduate of Kenyon College, Knell splits her time between New York City and Los Angeles, ensuring that Upworthy’s uplifting message continues to reach its global audience of over 100 million people each month.
Upworthy – GOOD PEOPLE: Stories From the Best of Humanity is more than just a collection of feel-good stories—it’s a reminder that kindness is a universal language, and no act of decency is too small to make a difference. Whether it’s a life-changing encounter with a teacher or the little gestures that restore faith in strangers, this book offers readers a chance to pause and appreciate the good that exists in the world.
As the world grows more complex, this collection from Upworthy serves as a reminder that humanity’s core is still rooted in compassion. In GOOD PEOPLE, Reilich and Knell show that the best of humanity is always around us—we just need to look for it. This book is not just a read; it’s an experience, one that reaffirms that love, kindness, and decency are alive and well.