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“Joy Overcame Sorrow” by Jerry L. Woodbridge Offers Families a Faith-Filled Path Through Childhood Grief

This heartfelt coming-of-age story follows ten-year-old Joy after the sudden loss of her father, offering families a gentle, faith-centered resource that encourages healing, resilience, and the enduring power of love.


San Diego, CA – WEBWIRE –

“Excellent for any child who has lost a loved one and for those who support them.” – Dawn R. Ward, Amazon Customer

Dr. Jerry L. Woodbridge, veteran educator and author, continues to impact families with her award-winning children’s book, “Joy Overcame Sorrow.” Honored by the International Christian Book Awards 2026, the Christlit Book Award 2025, and the International Impact Book Awards, the book has gained recognition for its meaningful and sensitive portrayal of childhood grief through a faith-based lens.

“Joy Overcame Sorrow” helps families navigate one of life’s most heartbreaking experiences — the loss of a loved one. This tender coming-of-age story centers on ten-year-old Joy, a bright and adventurous girl whose carefree childhood is forever changed after her father dies in a tragic car accident.

What begins as a perfect day at the park with her best friend, Bella, turns into heartbreak when Joy returns home to devastating news. Overwhelmed by grief, she struggles to understand how life can continue without the person who meant everything to her. Familiar routines feel different. Simple joys seem distant. The world she once knew no longer feels the same.

Yet, in the midst of deep sorrow, quiet strength begins to emerge. Supported by her mother’s steady love, the loyalty of a true friend, and meaningful memories expressed through music and reflection, Joy slowly finds her way forward. As the seasons change, so does she. Joy learns that healing does not mean forgetting. Instead, it means carrying love in a new way.

“Joy Overcame Sorrow” provides families, educators, and faith communities with a compassionate tool for opening conversations about grief. Through relatable storytelling and gentle themes of faith, hope, and resilience, the book reassures young readers that sadness is part of the journey, not the end of the story.

This uplifting narrative reminds readers of all ages that even in the darkest seasons, love remains, and joy can rise again.

Get a copy of the book online on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about Dr. Jerry L. Woodbridge and her works at www.drjerrylwoodbridge.com or follow her through Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Author Bio
Dr. Jerry L. Woodbridge is a teacher with over 40 years of experience. She was motivated to write a story from a child’s point of view because, during her teaching career, she frequently assisted children mourning the loss of loved ones. To assist young readers in processing loss, she wrote “Joy Overcame Sorrow” and its companion book, Joy’s Journal, after being challenged to tackle grief in children’s fiction. In 2003, Dr. Woodbridge graduated from Walden University with a Doctorate in Education. She became a widow in 2024 and eventually published Trading My Sorrows for the Joy of the Lord in 2010 after turning to writing to heal. Her writings demonstrate a lifelong dedication to faith, hope, and using journaling and storytelling to help others get through difficult times.

Book Details
“Joy Overcame Sorrow”
Author: Jerry L. Woodbridge
Genre: Children’s book
Publisher: Hope Books
Published date: June 06, 2025

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Joy Overcame Sorrow
Jerry L. Woodbridge
Children’s Book
Childhood Grief
Faith


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