Joy

Praise

Uncluttered, white backgrounds; clear, colorful details; a buoyant protagonist; and a spirited text make this a perfect choice for one-on-one or group sharing. A satisfying, full-fledged story that deftly accommodates the short attention spans and kinetic needs of young listeners.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Rhyming text and onomatopoeia (like "Jingle jangle, wriggle wrangle, in a tangle") are fun to vocalize as readers cheerfully witness Joy’s antics. Acting much like any toddler, the gray-and-black tabby knows no fear until she has a slight accident and requires a bit of comforting…After receiving just the right amount of cuddling, Joy’s energy ramps right back up—"Oh, boy! Oh, boy!"—and she’s back to her spirited explorations. This delightful kitten will charm readers of any age.
—Booklist (starred review)

Feather-light artwork by Desmond (The Elephant) comprises dashes of bright color (the laundry), feathery green leaves (of houseplants), and strong, simple forms (of big dog and cat), which invite readers to follow cause-and-effect trails while underscoring the healing power of parental attention.
—Publishers Weekly

Simple, adorable illustrations and rhythmic text engage readers from the start. Adults will certainly recognize the lovable toddler-like chaos the young kitten creates, and the aloof posture of the other two pets. This charming book will make its way into story hours, and is a recommended purchase for most libraries.
—School Library Journal