Inspired by Kai Shappley’s own life, the new novel for young readers Joy, to the World is a timely story of living life to the fullest, celebrating and centering trans joy, courage, and resilience. In the book, Joy, a twelve-year-old trans girl, just moved to Texas with her mother and older brother. Her family has accepted Joy as the girl she is early in her transition, with little fuss, leaving Joy to explore her love of sports, competition, teamwork, school spirit, and worship. But when she is told she’s off the cheerleading team, Joy wants to fight for her right to cheer. As her battle with the school board picks up momentum, Joy attracts support from kids all around the country . . . she even gets the attention of her hero, trans activist Kai Shappley. Kai Shappley is a young American actress and activist. When she was in fourth grade, she stood up to the Texas State Legislature against their attack against trans kids. Her journey was recorded in the Emmy winning documentary, Trans in America: Texas Strong. She has also guest starred in the first season of the Babysitters Club on Netflix. She loves her family, friends, pets, and Dolly Parton!