Old to Joy

Joy's Grandmama lives in an old house, on an old street, with old trees and all kinds of old things. And Joy already knows . . . there's no fun in that!

When young Joy goes to spend the day with Grandmama, she struggles to find beauty in all the old things at Grandmama's house. None of it looks or smells quite the same as it does at home. But as the day passes, Grandmama patiently helps Joy discover how the old ways can bring joy to any heart. Whether it's the swaying of stately trees, bubbles dancing in a sink filled with dishes, the sweet scents of a lovingly tended garden, or the memories found in a room packed with hats - if Joy open's her heart and mind, there is beauty to be found everywhere at Grandmama's house.

Gorgeous, richly detailed illustrations capture the movement of Joy's feelings of boredom and doubt to awe and appreciation for her Grandmama's attitude and way of life. Debut author-illustrator Anita Crawford Clark celebrates her African American lived experience and family heritage in this intergenerational story that is certain to encourage a healthy-aging mindset among readers of all ages and add a spark of joy to any home, classroom, or library setting. A perfect gift for grandparents and grandchildren alike!

Anita Crawford Clark is a writer and illustrator of fiction and nonfiction books for children, and a 2022 recipient of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators' Out from the Margins Award (OMA). She grew up chasing butterflies and fishing crawdads from a nearby creek during scorching Sacramento summers. Her stories and illustrations often reflect those memorable childhood years. Anita began formal art training at Parsons School of Design before transferring to The University of California - Davis where she earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology. She went on to earn graduate degrees in Creative Writing and Psychology. A veteran teacher, Anita has taught nearly every grade and especially takes pleasure in directing musical theatre productions for her students. Anita lives in Rancho Cordova, California. Connect with Anita at https: //www.acrawfordclark.com.