More than Words

August 1, 2023

K-Gr 3-Celebrating communication in its many forms, this charmingly illustrated title will find a useful place in all collections informing children about myriad ways humans "talk" to one another. Readers meet Nathan, a dark-skinned boy who doesn't say much but who is thinking about a great deal. Then the text names many other children and the ways they express themselves. Braille, sign language, tablets, singing, pointing, building, movement, and more are named and shown in bright spreads. The affirming illustrations feature a diverse cast of children connecting with one another in ways that work best for each child. The illustrations capture energy, inclusion, and joy as children express themselves and are listened to and understood by others. Detailed back matter expands on the text and could be especially useful when introducing the concept of communication. The "Ways to Help Everyone Have Communication Access" could be a great conversation starter for a classroom developing strategies to embrace a wide range of learners. VERDICT With affirming and informative language, this book has a place in every collection supporting and celebrating the many methods of communication children and adults are using today. Highly recommended.-John Scott

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 15, 2023
You don't always need to use words to make yourself heard. Nathan, a brown-skinned boy, doesn't say much, but he is thinking a lot. The text then examines ways that people say things without talking: making facial expressions; writing with a pencil, brailler, or tablet; using an alphabet board; signing; using text- or symbol-to-speech technology; singing and making sounds; moving, playing, and building; and painting or drawing. Each spread shows children using these methods to communicate. Ending pages circle back to Nathan and the interconnected channels and pools he has dug in the schoolyard for the little boats he has crafted out of walnuts and leaves. Even without a single word exchanged, the other children find a way to listen to him and reach out a hand in friendship. MacLean's gouache, pencil crayon, acrylic ink, and digital illustrations depict a class diverse in skin tone, ethnicity, religion, and ability. We see children who use wheelchairs, a child with a hearing impairment, a service dog, and a student who uses oxygen tubing. The backmatter distinguishes between expressive and receptive communication, emphasizes that "Even if someone doesn't express themselves in the same way as you, it doesn't mean they don't understand you," and lists ways to ensure everyone has communication access. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A warmly inclusive look at the many ways we communicate with one another. (Informational picture book. 4-10)

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