We Are Joy Hardcover by Chrystal D. Giles; illustrated by Kitt Thomas

Product Details

• Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (2026-06-02)
• Language: English
• Paperback: 32 pages
• ISBN-13: 9780593647738
• Item Weight: 382.73 grams
• Dimensions: 26.37 x 23.83 x 0.84 cm

The #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of Stacey's Extraordinary Words and the critically acclaimed author of Take Back the Block join together to create this heartwarming, empowering celebration of Black joy!

We are joy—showing off our moves and tick-tocking to the drumbeats
of our created culture—the culture that moves the world.

We are joy—full surrounded by laughter, and light
and love, and love, and love.

Shining with lyrical prose and gorgeously vibrant art, this delightful picture book read-together is an inspiring celebration of the beauty and strength of Black culture, Black community, and Black family. It's an empowering affirmation that joy—especially black joy, is all around us—in the people we love, in our commmunities, and in our hearts.

About the Author

Chrystal D. Giles is a champion for diversity and representation in children’s literature. She is the critcally acclaimed author of Take Back the Block and Not An Easy Win, which both received multiple accolades, best of lists, and starred reviews. Chrystal lives outside Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and son and is currently working on her next middle-grade novel.

Kitt Thomas (they/them) is a #1 New York Times be­stse­lling illustrator and two time NAACP Image ­Award winner. They are a first-generation Lucian American, an author, and  a graduate of the Ringling College of Art and Design with a BFA in visual studies. Kitt’s mission is to celebrate Black culture with their drawings and to encourage inclusion in all forms of art, as they found it hard to see themself properly represented in the media they enjoyed growing up. Kitt has illustrated many picture books including Stacey's Extraordinary Words, Patchwork Prince, and My Fade is Fresh.