Joy, to the World

Shappley, Kai and Lisa Bunker. Joy, to the World. 2023. 240p. ISBN 9780063242753.

Joy, her older brother and her mother moved from Minnesota to Texas so that their mother could pursue a new opportunity. Joy is really excited to start middle school. She meets new friends and is accepted in their circle. Joy discovers that in Texas cheerleading is huge, and she convinces her mother to let her join the tryouts for the squad. After hard work and training with her friends, Joy is accepted into the squad, and looks forward to their first performance.

Unfortunately, someone discovered that Joy is a transgendered girl, and the superintendent, using a law passed in Texas, orders Joy off the team. Even though both the principal and the nurse knew that Joy was transgendered, and even though she was allowed to use the girls' bathroom, the superintendent's decision forces Joy to go to the nurse to use the restroom, something that is extremely embarrassing.

Accepted and supported by her family, Joy comes out to her friends, who nod and agree that it's no big deal for them. Her best friend convinces Joy to continue practicing, and soon they are joined by more and more misfits at school. Joy's new cheerleading squad even performs at a protest at the Texas State House, making the news and attracting more attention, and attracting support from her idol, a trans activist named Kai, whom she meets in Austin. Despite the obstacles placed in front of her, Joy is resilient and won't let the world drag her down!

A story of courage and standing up for what you believe, Joy only wants to live her life, but forces beyond her control are conspiring to make her the villain of a culture war. Supporters of trans individuals and those who wish to learn more about them will appreciate this story of living life against the odds.