My Joy

My Joy: A Picture Book for Young Readers on Diversity by Shreeja Rao, illustrated by Shrujana N Shridhar, is a picture book that centres childhood, joy, love, wonder, and diversity through the perspective of a Dalit child. The story combines Shreeja Rao's writing with Shrujana N Shridhar's warm illustrations to present an affirming portrayal of childhood and identity.

Alongside the happiness and freedom associated with childhood, the book carries a connection to history and lived experience. Its focus on the joy of Dalit children offers young readers a perspective on identity and humanity that extends beyond narratives centred only on hardship or suffering.

About This Book

My Joy: A Picture Book for Young Readers on Diversity presents childhood through the eyes of a Dalit child, placing everyday feelings of love, wonder, and happiness at the centre of the reading experience.

The book brings together writing by Shreeja Rao and illustrations by Shrujana N Shridhar. The warm visual style complements the book's focus on childhood and helps communicate its themes of diversity, identity, and affirmation.

Rather than defining Dalit childhood solely through experiences of suffering, My Joy: A Picture Book for Young Readers on Diversity foregrounds joy and the fullness of human experience. The book offers an opportunity for young readers to encounter a perspective on childhood, diversity, and belonging through both words and images.

What You'll Discover

• A Dalit child's perspective on childhood, identity, and joy
• Themes of love, wonder, freedom, and diversity
• A positive portrayal of Dalit childhood and affirmation
• Writing by Shreeja Rao paired with warm illustrations
• A perspective that looks beyond narratives of suffering
• Ideas about humanity, identity, and childhood experience

Perfect For

• Young readers interested in diversity and inclusion
• Children who enjoy picture books about childhood and identity
• Families exploring stories that represent different experiences
• Readers interested in Dalit perspectives in children's literature
• Adults seeking picture books that encourage conversations about diversity

Why You'll Love This Book

My Joy: A Picture Book for Young Readers on Diversity brings a Dalit child's experience of joy, wonder, and childhood to the centre of its story. Through Shreeja Rao's writing and Shrujana N Shridhar's illustrations, the book offers young readers a thoughtful perspective on diversity, identity, and the many dimensions of childhood.