We Are Joy

This picture book is a read-aloud tribute to Black joy, written by Chrystal D. Giles and illustrated by Ebony Glenn, the illustrator of Stacey's Extraordinary Words. Giles is also the author of Take Back the Block.

The text is short and lyrical, written in the voice of a community speaking together. "We are joy," it declares, as people show off their dance moves and tick along to the drumbeats of a culture they made themselves, one that moves the world. Joy here is a feeling of being surrounded by laughter, light and love, and then more love.

The bright, vibrant artwork shows the beauty and strength of Black culture, Black community and Black family. Its message is that joy is never far away. It lives in the people we love, in the neighborhoods we share and in our own hearts.

Made to be read together, it suits parents, caregivers and children who want a warm, uplifting book that affirms who they are.