Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

One little circle, two dots, and a line—changed the world forever.

What would t-shirts, emojis, stickers, and text messages be without the classic yellow smiley face? Before it became a global symbol of joy, it began with one artist—and one dad.

In this vibrant and heartfelt picture book, readers meet Harvey Ball, the Massachusetts graphic designer who, in 1963, created the bright yellow smile that would eventually circle the globe.

Told through the imaginative voice of his daughter Jackie, My Dad Invented the Smile brings readers into a world of creativity, curiosity, and the everyday magic of watching an artist at work.