Yenebi’s Drive To School

Yenebi, her sister Melanie, and mom drive to school every morning across the US-Mexico border.

Areli Is A Dreamer: A True Story By Areli Morales, A Daca Recipient

“In the first picture book written by a DACA dreamer Areli Morales tells her own powerful and vibrant immigration story of moving from a quiet town in Mexico to the bustling and noisy metropolis of New York City”–

Mina Belongs Here

Mina is worried about starting a new kindergarten in her new country. The classroom is full of laughter, friendly faces and fun things to do, but the only word Mina can understand is her name. As she listens to stories and songs, chatter and instructions, Mina’s understanding steadily grows. She tries out sounds that roar in her throat and tickle her tongue until the new words feel like her own. Then one day, Mina realizes that this language now belongs to her, and she belongs to this new world. And she’s ready to welcome others in.

Bremen Town Musicians

A Brothers Grimm story about friendship and persistence, illustrated by the legendary European artist Bernadette Watts. When a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster are no longer wanted by their masters, they decide to run away and become musicians in Bremen Town. There they discover a warm little cabin, but find that robbers occupy it! Will the four friends plan to scare the robbers away work?

Little Red Riding Hood And The Dragon

A retelling of the classic story, Little Red lives in a village near the Great Wall, trains in kung fu, and must save her village from a mighty dragon. Inclues an author’s note discusses how this reimagining is influenced by Chinese mythology, symbolism, traditional medicine, and other elements of Compestine’s heritage.

Empty And Me: A Tale Of Friendship And Loss (Persian Edition)

In this touching bilingual Persian-English picture book, a young girl navigates the landscape of grief with the presence of a gentle giant named Empty.

After the loss of her mother, Empty emerges, filling the void left behind with quiet understanding. Initially isolated from her father and friends, the girl finds solace in Empty’s companionship. Yet, as a joyful memory of her mother resurfaces, she begins to reengage with the world. While Empty remains a constant, the girl discovers connections and newfound happiness with others.

Originally published in Iran, this bilingual tale delicately broaches the subjects of loss and mourning, offering young readers a tender exploration of complex emotions. Through its spare yet poignant prose and artwork, the book provides a tangible framework for understanding grief. Its comforting message resonates with readers of all ages, imparting a sense of solace and hope.

Featured in Volume XVI, Issue 3 of WOW Review.

This book is part of the Worlds of Words Global Reading List for 2023/24.