A multicultural group of children discover a park where everyone's words come to life—and look and behave a lot like kids. Some words are kinder and more inviting, while other are pushy or prickly or odd. Not every word makes the best first impression, but as they play and share adventures, the children connect more deeply with language. They learn that words have superpowers and grow to love them for their quirks. They see that words make excellent friends, who magically appear just as they're needed and easily attune to how kids feel. The more these children bond with language, the more they tap into their inner voice—and as they dare to give it expression, they gain more respect for the power of words.
Based on the idea that “words are a lot like people… each one is awesome just as it is,” this colorful story will open a new world for younger readers. Anne Berry’s soft, textured illustrations are the perfect medium, showcasing words carved out of the natural surroundings—such as the caterpillar whose body spells out “understand,” or the tree branches shaped into “sorry”—alongside those fashioned into characters who interact with children in the book. Those still learning to read will relish hunting for, and sounding out, new words as they browse the story, and adults will appreciate Davis-Gibbon’s attention to how words can both hurt and heal.
The ending empowers youth to have a voice, with a young girl “speak[ing] those words that you know tell the truth,” and Davis-Gibbon reminds readers that voicing their emotions is often the first step to understanding them. Some of the word characters are challenging to decipher, but still, this is a unique approach to instilling a love for language in children—and a friendly reminder for readers of all ages that “words can be tricky but they’re always here waiting for you… to help you shine YOUR special light into the world.”
Takeaway: Delightful story illustrating the power of words.
Comparable Titles: Peter H. Reynolds’s The Word Collector, Lisa Chong’s When Words Have Power.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations:
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
