The Little Book of Joy

What the Story is About

This is the story of two very special friends—one from the icy mountains of Tibet and the other from the sunny land of South Africa. They come from different parts of the world, follow different faiths, and have lived through deep pain. But when they come together, what do they do?

They laugh.

They tease each other, share memories, and talk about the small and big things that bring them joy.

This book captures that friendship. It gently reminds children (and us) that joy doesn’t come from having everything perfect. Joy often grows in the middle of struggles—in quiet moments, in helping someone, in being grateful for what is.

Why It Matters in the Classroom

We often ask children to behave—to stay calm, not get upset, and listen.

But how often do we ask them what makes them light up inside?

This book gives us a reason to talk about happiness—not the kind that comes from winning a game or getting a gift, but the kind that sits deep inside you, the kind that can be shared.

And here’s the best part—these aren’t imaginary characters. They’re two real people who’ve faced exile, illness, and injustice. Yet they chose joy.

What a powerful thing for children to see.

What to Look for in the Pictures

Rafael López’s illustrations glow. You’ll notice rich colours—warm golds, deep blues, bursts of celebration. Ask the children:

• What do you see on this page that makes you feel happy inside?

• How do the pictures show friendship?

• Which part of the picture makes you pause?

• You can slow down here, let the children talk, or just notice in silence. Both are okay.

Things You Could Ask the Children

• For younger ones (7–9):

  • What’s one thing that made you smile today?

  • Who do you love laughing with?

  • Can you draw something that brings you joy?

• For older ones (10–13):

  • Do you think joy is inside us or comes from things outside us?

  • What helps you feel better on a hard day?

  • Have you ever felt happy just by helping someone?

You don’t have to ask every question. Pick one or two. Let the conversation breathe.

Try This in Your Classroom

1. A Joy Jar

Keep a glass jar or a little box. Let children write or draw one joyful thing from their day. Revisit these when someone’s feeling low.

2. Gratitude Garland

Each child writes something they’re thankful for on a strip of paper. Make a chain and hang it. Let it grow through the weeks.

3. Silent Joy Walk

Take them for a slow walk around the school. Ask them to notice what brings a smile inside—the sky, a leaf, a sound. Then, let them draw or write.

4. Friendship Portraits

Let them pair up and draw each other—or something kind they’ve done for each other. Display it proudly.

A Gentle Note to the Teacher

Some children may not know who the Dalai Lama or Archbishop Tutu are. That’s alright.

You can say something simple:

“They’re two old friends who’ve lived through tough times. But when they meet, they laugh. They remind us that we can choose joy—even on difficult days.”

This book isn’t loud. It’s not fast-paced. It’s quiet and steady—just like the joy it discusses.

If you’re comfortable, you could share something from your own life. A moment, a memory, a smell that brings you joy. When we let children see our humanness, they also open up.

And sometimes, just reading this book slowly, without saying much, is more than enough.

A Note on Real vs. Forced Positivity

It’s important to remember—and help children understand—that joy isn’t about pretending everything is okay. Sometimes, we feel pressure (even as adults) to “just be happy” or “look on the bright side” when things are clearly difficult. But that kind of forced cheerfulness can feel hollow.

Psychologist Barbara Fredrickson, in her book Positivity, reminds us that real positive emotions are spacious. They make room for sadness, fear, and anger too. Genuine joy doesn’t deny pain—it gently holds it. That’s what this book models so beautifully. The laughter of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu isn’t covering up anything. It’s emerging despite what they’ve been through—and because of the deep connections they’ve built. That’s a more honest and lasting kind of joy we can help children move towards.