Book Review: My Words Flew Away Like Birds

 

My Words Flew Away Like Birds

by Debora Pearson

Kids Can Press 

 Children's Fiction 

Pub Date 05 Oct 2021

I am reviewing a copy of My Words Flew Away Like Birds through Kids Can Press and Netgalley:

My Words Flew Away Like Birds is a poetically told immigration story that fosters understanding and beautifully articulates how the desire to belong and the need for human connection are universal.  It tells of a little girl coming to a new part of the world, having to learn new words, a new way of life, and to make new friends.  Her Mother and Father had taught her new words to learn for when they go to the new country but when she gets to the new country all the new words fly away like birds.

The girl waits, and watches, and listens, trying to figure things out. Only, it's hard. Then one day the girl meets someone who needs her help. And as she makes a new friend, she finds that the new words start to come easier becoming her words, at last.

My Words Flew Away Like Birds is a beautifully written, engaging story told in free verse that is accessible for young readers as well as those just learning to read in English.   This story offers a powerful lesson in empathy for children everywhere. The story is inspired by the many newcomer families Debora Pearson has met in her work as a children's librarian in a bustling urban center. Both timely and universal, it provides young children with an opportunity to expand their worldview and be inspired by how the heroine prevails and finds connection. 

The simply whimsical illustrations done by Shrija Jain adds a playfulness and warmth to the narrative. A perfect read-aloud, this sweet and sensitive picture book encourages all children to celebrate inclusion and highlights the character education traits of resilience, kindness and empathy. 

I give My Words Flew Away Like Birds five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!