As a recipient of an ALA Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Communities grant, the author's school was fortunate to receive funds to purchase books for a special program. With a librarian partner the author ran "Book Bites" during lunchtime. The aim of this program was to provide a platform for students to engage in meaningful conversations about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives and relationships, as well as to explore themes of compassionate empathy. By focusing on themes of compassionate empathy, the program was able to create a sense of belonging and solidarity, helping to heal some of the wounds inflicted by the pandemic.