☀️ Books That Radiate Joy | Joyful YA Books

Some books are like sunshine in paper form—stories that make you smile, characters who feel like old friends, and moments so full of life you catch yourself grinning mid-page. Whether you need a pick-me-up or want something that leaves you feeling lighter, these joyful YA books radiate joy and a sense of connection.

They won’t ignore hard things, but they’ll remind you there’s still softness, hope, and laughter to be found. Always.

Joyful YA Books

📘 1. Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter

This rom-com is pure serotonin. Liz is obsessed with grand romantic gestures—and the banter with her annoying-next-door-neighbor-turned-love-interest is delightful. It’s full of clichés in the best way.

💛 Vibe: Enemies-to-lovers, ‘90s rom-com energy, big smiles.

📙 2. The Summer of June by Jamie Sumner

Middle-grade/YA crossover alert! June has anxiety, but her summer is full of growth, joy, and quiet bravery. It’s soft, sunny, and full of gentle encouragement.

💛 Vibe: Blooming friendships, plant metaphors, hopeful healing.

📕 3. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

This book is full of introspection, emotion, love, beauty, and connection. The joy in Aristotle and Dante’s bond is radiant and life-affirming.

💛 Vibe: Queer joy, poetic writing, quiet love that blooms.

📘 4. You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

Liz Lighty is hilarious, determined, awkward—and someone you root for instantly. This book is pure Black girl joy, queer joy, and underdog triumph, all wrapped up in prom drama and found family.

💛 Vibe: Feel-good chaos, big heart, unapologetic sparkle.

📗 5. Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko

Yes, this is fantasy, but it radiates joy in its celebration of connection, loyalty, and chosen family. Tarisai is fierce, complex, and full of love. It’s empowering and magical.

💛 Vibe: Mythic world-building + emotional warmth = perfection.

🌼 Why Joy Matters

Joy isn’t fluff. It’s fuel. Especially when the world feels heavy, books that celebrate joy—without ignoring complexity—are powerful reminders of what’s still possible. They remind us that softness is strength, love is radical, and laughter matters, and that these feelings are universal.

Let them remind you that softness is strength, love is radical, and laughter matters.

☀️ Tell Me Yours!

What book has made you smile lately? Your joy matters, and we'd love to hear about it. Drop your joyful rec in the comments or tag @ShelfCareDaily using #BooksThatRadiateJoy. Let's build a community of joy through literature.

Read well, be well. 💛☀️ Books That Radiate Joy