Words!
Words are important tools we use to communicate with each other. Growing a varied and rich vocabulary not only helps children academically but provides them with a range of ways to express themselves. The books selected for this week explore the power of words and will take us around the world to find some special words that express specific activities and experiences.
What are Words Really?
Written by Alexi Lubomirski, Illustrated by Carlos Aponte
This boldly illustrated book investigates the power of words. Author Alexi Lubomirski takes his readers on an exploration of the ways in which words impact us, in both positive and negative ways. The book reflects on feelings that words like Hate and Love create in us and how we can use words to feel better about ourselves, and how we can use words to uplift other people. Carlos Aponte’s bright, bold illustrations capture the powerful emotions associated with the words presented in the text. This book offers unlimited opportunities to discuss how we use our words and the impact of our words on ourselves and other people.
Author Alexi Lubomirski and illustrator Carlos Aponte discuss creating What are Words Really?
The Word Collector
Written and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Young Jerome is a word collector. He writes down new words, saving them in scrapbooks. He collects words that sound interesting or funny, and words that have interesting meanings. One day, Jerome drops his scrapbooks, and his collected words are scattered about. As he picks up the words, he notices that they can be put together in new ways. He continues to collect his words and one day decides to share his collection by setting the words free! Peter H. Reynolds’ illustrations capture Jerome’s fascination and delight in words and provide opportunities to explore the many works he has collected on each page of the book.
Enjoy The Word Collector as read by Barack and Michelle Obama.
What a Wonderful Word
Written by Nicola Edwards, Illustrated by Luisa Uribe
In this “collection of untranslatable words from around the world,” Nicola Edwards introduces her readers to words that have special and unique meanings. Words that mean, “the gleam of last light on a river’s surface at dusk,” “to move food that is too hot around in your mouth as you wait for it to cool down,” and many more one-of-a-kind words. Each word includes a double page spread indicating the word, its language of origin, and a description of the meaning from the culture from which the words originate. A phonetic pronunciation guide is provided at the end of the book. Luisa Uribe’s warm, muted illustrations capture the meanings of the words and reflect the cultural contexts of each word.
Beyond the Books
Exploring words with our children can offer opportunities for great fun while building their vocabularies and ability to express themselves. Fun Spoken Word Games You Can Play Anywhere features word games that can be played with children, youth, and adults — and the best part — no supplies needed! Here are some Word Collector Resources for schools, libraries, communities and families provided by author Peter H. Reynolds. Here’s to joyful wordplay!