Joy may seem elusive at times, but I like to think that there are people among us who know just when to write the song, produce the movie, make the podcast, or publish the book that could evoke some smiles.
Recording artist Amy Grant’s new album was released last week. In the 1980s, her optimistic music found me at a time in my faith when I needed a pick-me-up. She shared her love for God, doing so in a fresh way that wasn’t bent on being catchy but intent on being real. And as she continued her spiritual music, she ventured into pop tunes (much to the chagrin of oldschool church folks).
Grant has given the world a signature sound but more importantly a steady stream of how important it is to find joy. Her new record, “The Me That Remains,” includes several songs she co-wrote, her first original album in 13 years. At the age of 65, after surviving open-heart surgery in addition to a brain injury from a serious bicycle accident, Grant is appreciative, it seems evident, for these days of bringing her old and new songs to those of us who remember the padded jackets and stirrup pants from the ’80s concerts.
Sally Field, who will turn 80 in November, is Oscar-worthy in Netflix’s recent release of “Remarkably Bright Creatures.” Grief is a recurring theme, but in that grief the viewer is rewarded with the reminder that friendship, synchronicity and love all merge in our lives to bring us joy in ways we never see coming. Field is just remarkable as a widow and heartbroken mother, a role she wanted to develop. She told an interviewer, “I read about three chapters and said, ‘yes.’” This mystery novel by author Shelby Van Pelt was published in 2022.
As far as books are concerned, if you want a fun series I would recommend Liz Hurley’s novels about the five Hiverton sisters in the United Kingdom who, after living from paycheck to paycheck, are informed that the eldest has inherited an estate.
Hurley (not to be confused with the actress Elizabeth Hurley) devotes a novel to each sister, so the characters become intertwined in each of the stories set in England and Scotland.
It’s an easy read or listen and with lots of moments to celebrate joy— funny and sweet and sarcastic.
If history is of interest, American novelist Jeff Shaara penned a gem with “The Old Lion,” which came out in 2023. Teddy Roosevelt is the subject, but Shaara did not write a biography as such of the Rough Rider. He takes key moments in Roosevelt’s life from childhood to grave and employs dramatic license to recreate moments that make for a fascinating way to share the story of the man Shaara calls one of the most consequential figures in American history. Perhaps no other president has had more zest and joy for living than the twenty-sixth. It shines through in this novel which reads a bit like historical fiction, except that Teddy really existed.
I could recommend podcasts that make me laugh, but sometimes those are not as user-friendly because of language. If you have a car full of kids, this won’t work. But most of my travel is solo, so I do enjoy commediene Amy Pohler’s and another podcast called “Smartless” with Will Arnett, Jason Bates and Sean Hayes (all best friends). Both of these shows interview people who are usually their friends, which makes for a natural flow to the conversation.
Finally, I have not seen “The Sheep Detectives,” but the reviews are solid. Another little mystery movie for the entire family with a lesson to boot. Buy the popcorn and Milk Duds, and laugh a little as you try to solve the crime (ages 8 and up).
Joy is contagious. Find and share.
Snyder, Texas, native Sue Jane Sullivan is a retired schoolteacher whose thought-provoking commentary appears occasionally in several West Texas newspapers.