About the Book Series
Purchase an Autographed Copy.
Joy's adventure book series follows her journeys to countries around the world, helping children explore friendship, kindness, and cultural understanding through storytelling and art.
The series began with Joy and the Far Away Land, inspired by Joy's childhood travels to Ukraine and Russia. As one of fifteen American children selected to perform in the play Peace Child during the Cold War, Joy experienced firsthand the power of cultural exchange, peace, and connection. That experience became the foundation for her first book.​ Joy and the Far Away Land was selected for the My Home Library program through the Barbara Bush Literacy foundation.
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In Joy Goes to Mexico, the second book in the series, Joy explores the lush jungles and vibrant villages of Mexico alongside a local boy named Jose and his dog, Coco. The book was selected by Literacy Now for distribution in Title I Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms across Houston.
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Joy Goes to Paris celebrates Joy's mother's lifelong dream of celebrating her birthday on Bastille Day in the City of Light. In the story, Joy visits iconic landmarks, learns French words, and meets a special friend named Louis.
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The next book in the series, Joy Goes to Egypt, will be released in 2026!
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"Got this book as a gift and she LOVES it. It’s her absolute favorite, and she loves a lot of books so that is really saying something. Bright colors and fun visuals for kids (all the favorites including balloons, lady bugs, rainbows, parties and more). I highly recommend this book for kiddos of any age." - Chelsea Beauchamp
"Joy has such a strong commitment to make a difference for children. She knows that the future state of world peace will be dependent upon our children and what we teach them. This book exemplifies the joy (pun absolutely intended) she wants to share with everyone. Enjoy the moments you get to spend in Joy’s world." - Shannon Sinclair
"This book is brilliant and playful for all audiences. The message is so important and powerful. Simply through a child’s adventures you see how truly easy it can can be to love and accept those different from you. A sweet story with adorable illustrations. Both my kids loved it and it was a classroom favorite!" - Tracie Armand-Bauer
Reviews
"Joy and the Far Away Land" offers an explosion of color with a very powerful, yet simple message. If we could remember to look through the eyes of a child the world would be a safer place to live and play. Joy went beyond the words and illustrated her story herself. I sent this book to the next generation of grand nieces and nephews. They enjoyed this easy to read message wrapped in vivid illustrations." - Joseph R. Petrie
