Yay!

K-Gr 2–Kulekjian’s newest picture book is a buoyant celebration of perseverance, growth, and finding joy in every moment. The simple, rhythmic text follows a cohort of children navigating a school year filled with successes and setbacks, encouraging readers to embrace all experiences. Whether winning or learning, being cheered on or standing alone, a refrain of “YAY!” threads throughout the narrative. Hoang’s textured illustrations and rich, vibrant color palette create a warm and encouraging atmosphere. The expressive characters and varied compositions, ranging from full-bleed spreads to intimate vignettes, enhance the book’s universal appeal. Notably, the artwork captures a diverse range of children, reinforcing the message of persistence and positivity. Details such as eye shapes, hairstyles, clothing, accessories, and a range of skin tones reflect both individuality and cultural representation, making the illustrations feel authentic and inclusive. One particularly striking image thoughtfully depicts a child summiting a hiking trail using forearm crutches, accompanied by a service dog. The book’s design balances elegantly sparse text with vivid imagery, allowing young readers to engage visually while reinforcing the empowering message. Ideal for story-hour read-alouds or discussions on growth mindset, the work encourages children to celebrate all aspects of their journey.