REVIEW: THE HAPPY SHOP

Title: The Happy Shop
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Author: Brittany Long Olsen
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Publisher: Oni Press

Date Published: February 13, 2024

Pages: 144

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Middle Grade

Obtained: Free

Format: Ebook

Synopsis:

Eleven-year-old Darcy thinks she’s found the answer to her problems when she discovers a store selling happy feelings. But is happiness really the only emotion people need? A heartwarming middle-grade graphic novel debut for fans of Inside Out and Pilu of the Woods about understanding the value in all feelings.

Welcome to the Happy Shop!

Eleven-year-old Darcy just moved to a new country. She’s feeling lost and misses her friends back home. That’s when she stumbles upon a shop full of mysterious glowing jars labeled with things like “Picking up the last sweater on the rack and it’s on sale” and “Having the perfect weather on your wedding day.” Much to Darcy’s surprise–this store sells happy feelings .

After Darcy accidentally breaks one of the irreplaceable jars, she must make it up to the shopkeepers, Frida and Flora, by doing chores around the store, and is soon tasked with collecting happy feelings. But she learns that the magical business is anything but magical. With fewer customers than ever, Frida and Flora might have to close their doors. Can Darcy think of an idea to save the Happy Shop? What if they sold more than just happy feelings?

From debut writer and illustrator Brittany Long Olsen comes The Happy Shop , a heartfelt story about helping those you love and understanding your feelings.

My Review:

I got this book for free, in exchange for my honest opinion via NetGalley.

This is such a cute, heartbreaking, heartwarming read! Eleven year old Darcy recently moved to a new country, leaving behind her friends, her school, and her home. As Darcy is struggling to adjust to her new surroundings, she comes across a magic shop that sells and collects “happy feelings.” However, when she accidently breaks one of the jars, she is asked to work there until she pays off her debt, while also discovering that happiness is not the only emotion you need and that all emotions are equally important.

This book has such a beautiful message for young readers. I had so much fun reading it, and fell in love with the cast of characters the moment they were introduced. The whimsical storyline combined with the magical focus was a joy to read. I was immersed in the story from page one. The illustrations were adorable, and the story was wholesome.

I loved that this story made me stop and think about emotions and gratitude. It was an excellent read!

My Rating: