Joy! You Find What You Look For
#1 of 3 in Holly's Choice Series
What’s inside...
Holly is having a terrible day filled with disappointments, but her mom teaches her an important lesson about perspective by playing a game of Count the Red Cars, which later reveals to be about noticing the good things in life instead of focusing only on the bad. This story, part of the Holly’s Choice book series, aims to teach children the power of a positive outlook and gratitude. The book includes special tips for parents and educators on fostering joy and includes delightful illustrations by Kyle Merriman. 'Joy! You Find What You Look For' is a Mom's Choice Award - Gold Medal Winner, praised for its ability to resonate with both children and adults and its effective storytelling that highlights the importance of finding joy every day.
Discussion points
What are some things that make you feel joyful, just like the characters in the book?
Why do you think looking for joy helps us find it?
How did the illustrations help you understand the story?
Can you think of a time when you found joy in an unexpected situation?
What is one thing you can do tomorrow to look for joy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about a time when you found joy in a simple moment.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by asking follow-up questions that delve deeper into their initial responses.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life events or experiences your child has had to make the discussion more relevant.
Emphasize the importance of noticing small details in both the story and illustrations, which can lead to a richer understanding and appreciation.
Highlight the positive message of the book and discuss how looking for joy can change our perspective on everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Positivity attracts positivity
Explanation: The story demonstrates that by focusing on the good and positive aspects in everyday situations, more positivity will follow.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by consciously looking for good in their surroundings or in their interactions with others, fostering a more positive outlook.
Example Lesson: The power of perspective
Explanation: This book shows how shifting one's perspective can change a seemingly bad situation into a better one.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to reframe their challenges at school or home by finding something beneficial or learning from the experience.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: The characters in the story often express gratitude for the joys they find, no matter how small.
Real-World Application: Children can practice expressing gratitude daily, which can improve their overall happiness and relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience through joyful discovery
Explanation: The narrative encourages finding joy in every situation, promoting resilience amid difficulties.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to find something joyful or a lesson in every setback or challenge they face, helping them build resilience.
Example Lesson: Mindfulness
Explanation: The protagonist focuses on being present and aware of the joys around them, representing mindfulness.
Real-World Application: Children can practice mindfulness by taking moments to observe and appreciate their immediate environment, enhancing their focus and emotional well-being.