Matthew Fox’s In the Beginning There Was Joy: A Cosmic Celebration for Kids of All Ages is a delightful book for the young and the young at heart.  Fox tells the story of creation and how humanity fits into the cosmic picture.  The inspiration came in part from the words of Thomas Aquinas, “Joy is the human’s noblest act” and “Sheer Joy is God’s—and this demands companionship.”  In the Beginning There Was Joy tells the tale of Mrs. and Mr. Joy (God) creating the world as we know it.  “And so the universe began with Light! Some called it a fireball, and others a big bang, and others the start of creation!”

Though this delightful book does not end with creation.  In fact, the message of being co-creators with Mrs. and Mr. Joy and true stewards of creation is shared clearly.  “‘Yes! There is no joy without justice!’ exclaimed Mrs. Joy.”

What the humans must know is that our home is precious.  And it is up to the people to take care of the beautiful home they have been given.  On a page opposite an illustration of wind turbines in a green field with mountains in the background and a blue sky above, the text reads, “The rains and the plains, and the sun and the clouds, are all so busy shouting out loud, ‘WE LOVE YOU! WE GRACE YOU! WE BLESS YOU!’ These are the voices, that help humans make choices, to cherish their planet, and all that is on it.”

In the Beginning There Was Joy is indeed a joyful book for people of all ages.  The illustrations are fun and diverse.  People are depicted in all their beautiful diversity, from shapes and sizes to skin colors to ages.  It’s a book with an urgent message to share as we are part of the fabric of the universe together—the rocks and trees, and flowers and bees, and you and me.  Joy is our heritage and a blessed gift we can receive every day.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash