As a bibliophile, I not only take in the content of the book, but the cover, the font, the title headings etc. I don’t expect these things to differ from the norm, but when I come across a book that is exceptional in this area, I do notice it.
I suppose it only makes sense the artist Kathy Davis’ book Scatter Joy would be exceptional in appearance. It really is. Each page has parts of the text set off in an interesting way, there are pictures and squiggles on the pages. It truly adds to her message of experiencing joy through artistic expression: “Whatever from of art you are carrying in your heart, I encourage you to honor it, nurture it, and share it with others” (page 34). She goes on to explain that this form of expression can be via things you wouldn’t normally consider “art.” The interests that you have — “your thing” about which you are passionate — create the same effect as more traditional forms of artistic expression such as painting, music, or writing.
Because of these special extras, this would make a lovely gift book (perhaps as an end-of-year gift for teachers– for those of you like us who are still in school — or a Sunday School teacher). I think that my copy will stay in my guest room to brighten my visitors’ stay.
Scatter Joy tells about Kathy’s experience of stepping out and forming her own business in 1990. Among other things (many other things), Kathy designs greeting cards (Enter to win a set for yourself at 5 Minutes for Giveaways). Kathy’s story will inspire anyone who has ever wondered, “Could I? Should I?”
Each chapter includes simple tips for scattering joy or finding joy — in the morning, in the evening, at work, by performing random acts of kindness, or having gratitude. The suggestions are nothing earth-shattering (Watch a favorite show; Phone a friend), but I think that the simplicity works. Imagine if you actually did these things instead of just complaining? They are simple enough that you could resolve to add these things into the different parts of your life. The chapters end with “something to think about.” This short question would be great way to follow-up with a friend — to encourage each other to begin to search for joy in your life or scatter it in someone else’s.
Read more inspiring thoughts, or share your own inspirational stories, videos, and photos at scatterjoy.com.
If you’d like t win a copy of this book (U.S. residents only), leave a comment. This giveaway will be open two weeks, and we will post the winner on June 24.
Also remember to enter out the Scatter Joy greeting card giveaway at 5 Minutes for Giveaways.
Enter our other current giveaways. Subscribe to our feed. Follow us @5M4B on Twitter.
Managing Editor Jennifer Donovan also blogs at Snapshot about life with her tween daughter and her preschool son.
Rachel says
Looks like an amazing book!
MJ says
This sounds so uplifting! Please count me in.
mj.coward[at]gmail.com
Mary says
I love these kinds of books! Count me in please!!
mynew30{at}gmail{dot}com
Sabrina says
I would love this book to help me scatter some joy.
Rebecca says
Already entered to win the greeting cards… would love to read the whole story!!
Linda White says
love to read her story!
Michael Capp says
I’d love to win!
shannon Baas says
Looks like a good book.
Carrie C. says
This books sounds very interesting. I would love to read it.
Sherry says
Sounds like a wonderful read, thanks for the review and a chance to win.
Anita Yancey says
This book sounds great. I would love to win it.
Linda says
Just the cover alone scatters joy. The book must be delightful. Enter me for a chance to win. Thank you.
susan varney says
i’d love to read this book
Karen B says
A book for everyone – would love to share with my family.
JDSG says
I love doing Random Acts of Kindness and “scattering the joy.” Ah, something I will never tire of.
JDSG
visionquest2020(at)msn(dot)com
Holly says
This looks like a delightful book. Please enter me!
jenny martin says
what a great way to scatter the joy!
jenny martin says
i subscribe!
munichgirl says
I agree – this would make a beautiful gift.
Angie says
you never disappoint me with your book reviews so I’m sure that I will love this book too!
angie says
This sounds like a great book.
Terry Y says
I think designing greeting cards would be my ‘dream job’.
Christina Brunetti says
I would love to read this.
Thanks
Marsha Baker says
This is right up my alley! Even the title “Scatter Joy” grabs me fast! The book looks delicious – and I’m an encourager at heart, so any helps/ideas I can get for something fresh is always welcome. Bring it on!!
Katy says
Looks like a great book, thanks!
Katy Yule says
I subscribe
Jenn S. says
Would love to read this book.
jen w. says
This one looks like it’s right up my creative alley!
mary casper says
would love to have this book thanks for the chance
Debbie says
What a sweet book – thanks for the chance to win!
michele anne says
great giveaway…would love to win it.
Martha C says
I’m trying to win the cards but I could really use this book to help me get on the joyful path in my ever busy world.
Sue W says
This sounds like a book that everyone should read. Please count me in.
etirv says
Thanks, please include me!
Sherry Early says
OK, I’m busy scattering gloom right now, so I could use some inspiration.
Susan C says
I am overwhelmingly busy lately, I need to slow down and enjoy the everyday!
smchester at gmail dot com
Mama Zen says
What a lovely book!
Christina says
I’d love to learn how this woman started her own business! Thanks for the chance to win this book!
Christina says
I’m a proud subscriber to 5 Minutes For Mom!
Carlene says
Please inlcude me in your giveaway.
Thanks
Carlene
iluvreading(at)verizon.net
Karen Gonyea says
Great prize 🙂
quiltingreader says
Sounds like a great book.
Michelle Rosborough says
Cool book
Kathy D says
BOOKS SOUNDS WONDERFUL
Carol Lawrence says
Enter me in the book giveaway.
Carol Lawrence says
Yahoo reader subscriber.
sarah says
enter me!
Jeane says
Ah..a feel good book. No murder, crime, hate…send it to all of us. Just kidding 🙂