When Joy’s dad loses his job, her family moves. At their new apartment, Joy meets Nora, who introduces her to a secret hideout the kids in the building have. As Joy adjusts to the move and even starts a dog-walking business, she explores friendship and family dynamics through life’s ups and downs.
A Soft Place to Land
Discuss the Book
A Friendly Welcome
Chapters 1–9
- Important Moment: Joy is new to the apartment building. Nora introduces Joy to her friends at the bus stop and invites Joy to sit with her at lunch.
- Ask and Share: How has Nora helped to make Joy feel welcome? Can you think of a time someone made you feel included? How can you help a classmate or newcomer feel welcome?
A Mysterious Poem
Chapters 10–18
- Important Moment: Joy discovers a poem written on the wall. It says “I’m tired of smiling / when actually I’m falling apart / I’m tired of hiding / the pain that’s inside my heart.” Joy writes back, “I know exactly how you feel. You are not alone. Can I help? ~Joy.”
- Ask and Share: What does Joy discover written on the wall of The Hideout? Why does she decide to write back? What would you write back or do?
Staying Strong
Chapters 19–27
- Important Moment: When Joy’s parents decide to separate, Joy doesn’t want her little sister Malia to see her crying. She feels like it’s her job to be strong for Malia, even though she’s a kid too!
- Ask and Share: Why doesn’t Joy want her little sister to see her crying? Do you ever feel like you have to hide your emotions or like it’s hard to let out your feelings? What can you do to let the feelings out?
Taking Responsibility
Chapters 28–36
- Important Moment: After Ziggy escapes in a storm, Joy makes lost dog posters and organizes a community search party. They find Ziggy safe and sound!
- Ask and Share: What are the strategies Joy uses to help find Ziggy? Can you think of some ways you are becoming more responsible and independent, like Joy? Are there other responsibilities and privileges you want to take on?