This is one of those books that makes you simply feel good about life. While seemingly a sweet, simple story on the surface, it leaves you with several important messages, too. First, just because someone or something, in this case the dog Joy, has a disability, it doesn't mean they don't have other strengths. It also reminds us of the importance of not just knowing our family history but acknowledging and respecting it. Another subtle message is opening ourselves up to others and sensing their needs as well as our own.
My only concern/wish is that I wonder if a bit more info might be needed by young readers unfamiliar with the important role of the Tuskegee Airmen? While there is a rather dreamlike picture depicting planes and an obviously black man in uniform, no other info is given. The young boy's admiration and respect for his grandfather is apparent, so at least it's obvious being a Tuskegee Airman was somehow of importance, at least. As the boy notes, he can now wear a bit of his family heritage. Joy's "sightless search", as the author nicely phrases it, makes that possible.
The illustrations are colorful and detailed without going overboard. We do see children of different races in them, a nice, subtle touch, including an older gentleman sitting on a park bench, adding another meaningful touch. As a dog person, I was glad to see dog Joy depicted wearing both a collar and tag, both important things pet owners need to take responsibility for, especially if your pet is blind like Joy. Joy's blindness didn't seem to slow her down, however, again demonstrating that just because we're lacking in one respect doesn't mean we don't have other strengths.
Finally, as a former teacher, I could quickly envision many discussions emerging from the reading of this book. First, how does the illustrator show us Joy is blind without it being obvious? What might your need to know to own a pet of any kind with a disability? Have you ever taken your dog/pet on a swing? How or why does one choose a name for a pet? What lesson might London's new friend learn from his experience losing a treasured possession? What was the importance of the Tuskegee Airman group? How do you think he had the hat with him at the park anyway? What wish would you make to Joy? What.... well, so many other possible chances to talk, really talk to each other as the book is read. Thank you#NetGalley and #CellarOfPurple for allowing me to meet Joy and her girl, London. They made me smile.
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