FICTION

The Joy in You

by Cat Deeley (text) & illus. by Rosie Butcher
Random. Sept. 2020. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593181416.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2–This picture book has a strong message of self-empowerment. Readers are encouraged to find what action gives them joy and then go do it. The pastel colored pictures show a variety of sweetly humanized animals going off to do the things that make themselves happy, such as singing, dancing, or flying to the moon. The animals are shown both on their own and with each other. There is no narrative arc; this is a list of encouraging messages, for things to do as well as for things to feel. It concludes with a reminder that someone will always be with you, presumably the giver of the book or perhaps a parent.
VERDICT There are many stronger books about self-empowerment that could be added to a library collection before adding this one.
Reviewed by Debbie Tanner, S D Spady Montessori Elem., FL , Aug 01, 2020

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