From One Lunchbox to a Movement—The Story Behind Macie’s Magic Berries ✨🫐

When we reveal the brand-new Macie and the Magic Berries book cover and music video on Earth Day, I hope you’ll see more than just bright colors and a catchy tune — you’ll see the heart behind it. 💙

This story was inspired by a real moment shared with me by my friend and Access to Fresh co-founder, Nichole Dube.

She told me how her daughter, excited to bring fresh fruits and veggies to school, was sometimes teased by classmates for bringing “weird” healthy foods in her lunch.

It stuck with me — not just because of the teasing, but because of what Nichole and her daughter did next: they shared.

They turned hurt into hope — offering fresh produce to others, sparking smiles and conversations instead of stares.

That powerful spirit of kindness — and her daughter’s love for growing and giving — became the foundation for Macie and the Magic Berries… (and helped inspire the fan-favorite character of Farmer Lundyn in the Macieverse.)

In the story, there’s a moment when Macie feels heartbroken after learning that not all of her friends have the same access to fresh fruits.

Her best friend Mia gently comforts her, explaining:

“Some of our friends can’t get fresh fruit like you and me.

They miss the health that grows on every bush and tree.”

It’s a simple moment — but one packed with compassion, empathy, and hope. And it’s the kind of moment we need more of as we teach little ones how to care for each other and for the world around them.

In Macie and the Magic Berries, Macie learns three powerful lessons that feel especially fitting as we celebrate Earth Day:

💙 Caring is Sharing: A little kindness goes a long way.

🫐 Not Everyone Has Access to Fresh, Healthy Food: Fairness and empathy start with awareness.

💪 Healthy Foods Help Us Grow Strong: Nature’s gifts help us shine — and thrive together.

After the story, kids and caregivers can keep the magic growing with Let’s Talk About Caring and Sharing — a simple guide to helping little ones think about kindness, caring, and ways they can help friends and neighbors.

💚 Plus, Nichole shares a special message with ways you and your family can plant seeds of change in your own community.

Let’s grow something good together this Earth Day — one small act of caring at a time. 🌎 ✨

Peter Contardo