Joyland’s Magic Returns: A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! Captures Wichita’s Heart
Joyland Amusement Park may be gone, but its memories are proving stronger than ever. With the release of A Day of Joy at Joyland Park!, Wichita author and historian Dustin Ray Shannon is helping bring the beloved amusement park back to life for a new generation of readers.
The children’s book has quickly gained attention across Wichita, especially among those who remember Joyland as a treasured part of their childhood. Through 19 handcrafted illustrations and a warm, nostalgic story, A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! recreates the excitement of spending a day at the historic amusement park—from the rides and midway to the sights and sounds that made Joyland unforgettable.
Recent media coverage has helped introduce the book to an even wider audience. Shannon appeared on local television to discuss the project and the importance of preserving Joyland’s legacy. The book was also featured in a KWCH news article, “New children’s book brings Joyland back to life for a new generation in Wichita,” published May 2, 2026. The article highlighted Shannon’s work as a Wichita historian and author, noting that the book allows children who never experienced Joyland to imagine what a day at the park might have felt like.
The response from Wichita readers has been enthusiastic. For many families, the book is more than a children’s story—it is a keepsake. Parents and grandparents who once visited Joyland can now share those memories with children and grandchildren. The book’s popularity reflects just how deeply Joyland remains connected to Wichita’s identity.
The children’s book has quickly gained attention across Wichita, especially among those who remember Joyland as a treasured part of their childhood. Through 19 handcrafted illustrations and a warm, nostalgic story, A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! recreates the excitement of spending a day at the historic amusement park—from the rides and midway to the sights and sounds that made Joyland unforgettable.
Recent media coverage has helped introduce the book to an even wider audience. Shannon appeared on local television to discuss the project and the importance of preserving Joyland’s legacy. The book was also featured in a KWCH news article, “New children’s book brings Joyland back to life for a new generation in Wichita,” published May 2, 2026. The article highlighted Shannon’s work as a Wichita historian and author, noting that the book allows children who never experienced Joyland to imagine what a day at the park might have felt like.
The response from Wichita readers has been enthusiastic. For many families, the book is more than a children’s story—it is a keepsake. Parents and grandparents who once visited Joyland can now share those memories with children and grandchildren. The book’s popularity reflects just how deeply Joyland remains connected to Wichita’s identity.
Copies of A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! are available exclusively at select Wichita retail locations:
Al’s Old and New Book Store
1700 W Douglas Ave
Wichita, KS 67203
Watermark Books & Cafe
4701 E Douglas Ave
Wichita, KS 67218
Things4That
8999 W Central Ave Ste 103
Wichita, KS 67212
As interest continues to grow, A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! stands as both a children’s book and a tribute to one of Wichita’s most beloved landmarks. Joyland may no longer light up the night sky, but through this book, its magic continues to shine.
Al’s Old and New Book Store
1700 W Douglas Ave
Wichita, KS 67203
Watermark Books & Cafe
4701 E Douglas Ave
Wichita, KS 67218
Things4That
8999 W Central Ave Ste 103
Wichita, KS 67212
As interest continues to grow, A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! stands as both a children’s book and a tribute to one of Wichita’s most beloved landmarks. Joyland may no longer light up the night sky, but through this book, its magic continues to shine.
Readers can also purchase copies of A Day of Joy at Joyland Park! online. Bring the magic of Wichita’s beloved Joyland Amusement Park home and share the memories with a new generation.