PLANET JOY

In this third book of the series, Joy Applebloom, who’s now almost 11, remains positive during yet more transitions.

Returning to the U.K. to live with Granddad continues to bring new experiences. When Joy’s teacher goes on medical leave for a knee replacement, the new teacher, Mr. Suarez, surprises the class with his exuberance. Joy, who reads white, and best friend Benny, who’s Black, want to befriend new student Phoebe, but Joy worries that her efforts are coming across as annoying. The people in Joy’s inner circle have all sorts of new things going on in their lives—a new executive chef job for her dad, a new boyfriend for her sister (“and a new favorite word, which is PRIVACY”), a new love of gardening for Granddad, and new contact lenses for Benny to replace his glasses. To top it all off, Joy notices signs that her family might be moving again. Having put down roots, Joy is “quietly working on remembering the silver linings” of her old life, when she was home-schooled and traveled around to interesting new places. “Planet Joy,” as Claude terms it, is still as optimistic a place as ever; Joy still believes that life is “crammed full of upsides and silver linings and surprises.” This uplifting story explores bumps in the road without being patronizing. Joy’s comical and clever narration is delightful and is enhanced by charming illustrations.

A joyful celebration of navigating life’s changes and challenges.