The Little Book of Joy

K-Gr 4–Based on The Book of Joy by the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, this picture book offers children the idea that joy is everywhere, even during the most painful of times. These holy men share stories of their difficult and lonely childhoods and how they found positive, joyful experiences in the simplest of events. The early illustrations are in muted tones with a hint of rainbow colors. After the realization that joy is all around and can be found in a roadside flower or ray of sunshine, the pictures are infused with the color of rainbows on every page. And when that joy is shared, the pages glow. The idea that even after a storm there may be a rainbow is the basic theme that is passed on to young readers. For children who find themselves in a puzzling and difficult world, this work can offer hope and guidance.