How Jackson Found His Joy Again

PreS-Gr 2–Jackson was once so full of joy that everywhere he went, he would leave behind his unique, colorful mark. Over time, as he encounters sad or confusing situations, his color starts fading. However, when his pet hamster dies and his best friend moves away in the same week, his world turns completely gray. Concerned, his parents take him to the school counselor, who encourages him to search for one color outside each day. Even though he is skeptical, Jackson gradually finds himself noticing small bits of color, whether in the blue of the ocean or the orange of the evening sky, leading to tiny sparks of joy. While the message-driven narrative feels heavy-handed at times, the visual storytelling is a powerful tool in supporting children navigating grief or sadness. As the puffs of color that initially follow Jackson lessen and eventually turn gray, readers see a visible representation of how grief takes hold. Although the lack of narrative and character development may not lend itself to a whole group read, the concept of reclaiming joy through small, mindful moments is a valuable one and may prove useful for individuals experiencing loss.