The Big Book of Happy

Taking cues from the animal kingdom, a redheaded girl and a boy with shaggy black hair demonstrate the things that give them joy. Full of bright patterns and geometric motifs, Marshall’s images have a whiff of Charley Harper about them—the brown shells of three snails that “are happy when they are sliding” resemble intricately inlaid wood while, on the opposite page, the boy rides his scooter past rows of skinny rectangular houses. Upbeat and eye-catching, the book creates opportunities for readers to think about what makes them happy, whether it’s climbing trees, singing, or exchanging hugs. Simultaneously available: The Big Book of Silly. Ages 3–6. (June)