I like a lot of things in stories, generally ones where the hero learns a valuable lesson, or makes friends with someone new. I like seeing a character smile. One other thing I like are 'shout outs' to other pop culture films and books.
One thing I don't like is the "parents don't believe the kid" bit, you know where the kid sees something, and then the parent comes to look and the thing has of course, moved away. It annoys me every time.
Happiest story without being cheesy? Harry Potter. It has some really dark stuff and some heartache for the main characters... but in the end the heroes come out with a lot of strength and in general is just well told in every way.
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