My Heart Fills With Happiness Perfect Picture Book Friday

A simple, heartfelt reflection on the special things that bring joy. 

text copyright, Monique Gray Smith, 2016, illustrations copyright, Julie Flett, 2016, Orca Book Publishers

The Thanksgiving season offers opportunities to intentionally reflect on the things we are thankful for. Often, those are the things that fill our hearts with happiness. This board book prompts readers to recognize the things that might be taken for granted--stories, songs, or sunshine--that create a sense of wonder and delight. Then, young learners are challenged to discover what brings them joy. 

With spare text and vivid illustrations, this engaging board book will delight the youngest learners, while challenging older ones to ponder, too. It would make a perfect springboard into conversations about thankfulness and joy, as well as concepts revolving around emotions, community, and family relationships. MY HEART FILLS WITH HAPPINESS will stand up to multiple readings and would be an ideal fit for a read-aloud at the library, or incorporated into a bedtime routine.

Title:  MY HEART FILLS WITH HAPPINESS

Author:  Monique Gray Smith

Illustrator:  Julie Flett

Age:  Baby-2 years

Publisher:  Orca Book Publishers, 2016

Themes:   Joy, Family, Nature

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Choose an activity mentioned in this book and try it. Does it fill your heart with joy?
• The book refers to baking bannock. With the help of a trusted adult, gather the ingredients and make it. For a recipe for bannock, as well as a brief history of the bread, check out this website.
• Conversation starters:  "What brings you joy?"  "What things are you thankful for?" 

For more perfect picture books, check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!