BIOGRAPHY
Carol Holton was born November 13, 1958 in Thomasville, Georgia. Her parent's moved to New York City for better job opportunities. Carol was raised in Queens, New York where children were allowed to dream and be creative. Carol's dream to be a professional dancer came true and she saw a lot of this world by traveling to perform.
After a 10 year career in dance, Carol completed her college degree in Physical Education. After moving to Los Angeles 30 years ago, Carol has taught and coached sport’s, dance, and yoga, and was a high school Dean of Students for 7 years.
Carol also enjoys choreography and has had the opportunity to choreograph many high school plays as well as contributing to her church's production of "The Passion Play" as choreographer and actor.
Carol Lynn Holton
This book was originally written in 2016 and is now rebranded for your child's reading pleasure.
Happy and Sad also introduces the reader to journaling. I believe that it is so important for young people to write down their thoughts and feelings, whether feeling happy or sad.
I hope you like this book, written in love, inspired by my son’s and my experiences in this ever changing, unpredictable world.
BOOK REVIEW
5.0 out of 5 stars Happy and Sad is an enjoyable book that explores the ...
Reviewed in the United States on July 18, 2016
Happy and Sad is an enjoyable book that explores the emotions of the character after relocating to a new home and area. It's a great story for a parent to share with a child and explain to them how there are good times and sad times in life. This book will definitely spark conversation with your child about their happy and sad feelings!
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2016
Loved it!!!
5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting Story and Illustrations
Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2016
I love this book! My students enjoyed hearing the book being read to them. They also enjoyed looking at the very creative illustrations. I plan to recommend this book to other teachers and parents when school resumes.
BOOK TRAILER
RADIO INTERVIEW
I love this book!!
I miss my mom because of this.
I like how the book shows that it’s okay to feel happy and sad at the same time. Sometimes I feel happy when I play with my friends, but I feel sad when I have to go home. It’s nice to know that all feelings are okay, even the sad ones!
This is beautiful, my kids love it!!!
When I read the book, I’m reminded of the hardships my mom and I went through. It’s a story that feels deeply personal, but I know it’s one that many others can relate to as well. The struggles Carol and her son faced when they moved into a new place really resonated with me. Adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings, getting to know new people—it’s never easy. And leaving behind the things that once brought comfort and stability is a difficult and emotional process. I think this is something so many of us can understand, no matter where we come from.
I actually bought 2 copies.. one for my son and niece ☺️
My son really loves this book❤
"Happy and Sad by Carol Holton is a beautifully written work that tugs at the heartstrings in such a profound way. The way Carol explores the delicate balance of joy and sorrow, the highs and lows of life, truly resonates. Her ability to capture complex emotions with such raw honesty is both moving and comforting. The journey through happiness and sadness feels so relatable, and it’s a reminder that these emotions, though opposing, often coexist in our lives. It's a book that leaves you reflecting long after you turn the last page, feeling both uplifted and deeply understood. Thank you, Carol, for sharing such a heartfelt and powerful story."
This book is absolutely beautiful, and I can’t help but wonder how Carol and her son are doing now. I’ve become so invested in their lives, and the journey they’ve gone through. There’s a sense of tenderness and vulnerability in their relationship that resonates deeply with me. It feels like they’ve both been through so much, and I can’t help but wonder how they’ve managed to heal and grow. Are they still finding comfort in each other’s company, or have the challenges of life pulled them in different directions? I’m curious about the emotional space they’re in right now—are they in a place of peace, or still struggling to navigate the complexities of their bond? My heart is full of empathy for them, and I hope they’ve found some kind of resolution or at least a sense of hope. I feel like their story stays with you, even after the pages are turned.
Happy and Sad by Carol Holton is an absolute gem of a children’s book. The way Carol beautifully explores the two contrasting emotions of happiness and sadness is both simple and profound. Through charming illustrations and gentle, thoughtful language, she helps young readers understand that both feelings are natural parts of life, and that it’s okay to experience them.
What stands out most is how the book encourages emotional awareness and empathy in a way that feels relatable to children. The illustrations are bright and engaging, perfectly capturing the essence of each emotion, while the story line offers reassurance that it’s okay to feel both happy and sad at different times.
I particularly love how the book emphasises that feelings are temporary and that it’s okay to express them, which is such an important lesson for children as they learn to navigate their own emotions. It’s a beautiful, heartfelt read that parents and children alike can enjoy together—one that sparks meaningful conversations and teaches emotional resilience in a wonderfully accessible way.
Highly recommended for any child’s bookshelf! It’s a perfect blend of warmth, insight, and comfort.