Early Years (ages 2-6)

The House Before Falling into the Sea

Every day, more and more people fleeing war in the north show up at Kyung Tak and her family’s house on the southeastern shore of Korea. With nowhere else to go, the Taks’ home is these migrants’ last chance of refuge “before falling into the sea,” and the household quickly becomes crowded, hot, and noisy. Then war sirens cry out over Kyung’s city too, and her family and their guests take shelter underground. When the sirens stop, Kyung is upset—she wishes everything could go back to the way it was before: before the sirens, before strangers started coming into their home. But after an important talk with her parents, her new friend Sunhee, and Sunhee’s father, Kyung realizes something important: We’re stronger when we have each other, and the kindness we show one another in the darkest of times is a gift we’ll never regret.

The House Before Falling into the Sea is the WOW Recommends Book of the Month for September 2024.

Daughter Of the Light-Footed People: The Story Of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez

From the copper canyons of Mexico her swift footsteps echo. Clip clap, clip clap. Experience a 60-mile run with Indigenous athlete Lorena Ramirez, who captured the world’s attention when she won an ultramarathon in Mexico wearing a skirt and rubber sandals — the traditional clothes of the Rarámuri, the light-footed people.

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

The Heart Never Forgets

A young girl participates in a West African masquerade with a special plan to honor her grandfather who has passed away.

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

As The Seas Rise: Nicole Hernández Hammer And The Fight For Climate Justice

A picturebook biography of environmental scientist and activist Nicole Hernandez Hammer, who was recognized by former First Lady Michelle Obama at the 2015 State of the Union address for her efforts to educate people about climate change and its disproportionate impact on communities of color.

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

The Hare-Shaped Hole

Hertle and Bertle were always a pair, though one was a turtle and one was a hare.

They were utterly buddies, and best friends forever, and whenever you looked, you would find them together… until quite unexpectedly… the end came. When Hertle disappears for good, Bertle can only see a Hertle-shaped hole where his friend should be. He pleads with it, get angry with it, but the hole still won’t bring his Hertle back. It seems like hope is lost… until Gerda the kindly bear finds him.

She explains that he must fill the hole with his memories of Hertle. And slowly… Bertle begins to feel a little bit better.

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

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.

Say Hello!

Carmelita loves her vibrant neighborhood, where cultural diversity thrives. With a cheerful glee, she greets the array of people in her community. From Spanish to English, French to Japanese, Carmelita exchanges hellos in numerous languages, embracing the multicultural tapestry around her. Even her faithful companion, Manny the dog, joins in with his enthusiastic “Woof!” that seems to transcend language barriers.

Rachel Isadora, renowned for her Caldecott Honor-winning works, creates captivating collages that depict Carmelita’s world with whimsical charm. Each detail, from colorful storefronts to fluttering pigeons and the enticing ice cream truck, invites exploration. Through Carmelita’s adventures, Isadora celebrates the kaleidoscope of cultures found in American neighborhoods, offering a delightful introduction to the beauty of language and the joy of diversity.

The Secret Elephant: Inspired By A True Story Of Friendship

Amidst the antics of monkeys and the presence of lions and giraffes, a looming war casts a shadow over the once-bustling zoo. As visitors dwindle and fear pervades the air, most animals seek solace with their companions, leaving one baby elephant alone and vulnerable. Amidst the chaos of bombs and uncertainty, the elephant’s keeper remains a steadfast presence, offering comfort and companionship.

When the situation becomes untenable, the keeper makes a bold decision to bring the elephant home, forging an unbreakable bond between them. Despite the challenges of concealing such a large creature, their friendship endures, even when wartime pressures demand the elephant’s return to the zoo. Undeterred by separation, the keeper stands by her friend’s side, finding solace amidst the chaos of conflict.

Inspired by a poignant true story from the Belfast Zoo during World War II, this book resonates with the spirit of resilience and empathy, reminiscent of beloved tales like “The One and Only Ivan” and the acclaimed documentary “The Elephant Whisperer.”

La Mala Suerte Is Following Me

In this fun picture book adventure exploring superstitions, Miguel finds himself grappling with La Mala Suerte (Mrs. Bad Luck)—and he’s determined to shake her off before it’s too late!

Ever since his abuelita warned him about the consequences of opening an umbrella indoors, Miguel’s life takes a turn for the worse. From stumbling over his own feet to flunking an exam and fumbling on the soccer field, Mrs. Bad Luck seems to shadow his every move. Desperate for a change of fortune, Miguel tries everything from hunting for four-leaf clovers to dabbling in his aunt’s “existential” oils, but to no avail.

With a blend of Spanish phrases and playful language, “La Mala Suerte Is Following Me” offers a delightful and heartfelt exploration of superstitions. Join Miguel on his zany quest to outwit Mrs. Bad Luck and reclaim control over his luck-filled adventures!

Everyone Gets A Turn

Join Bear, Hare, Turtle, and Mouse as they embark on an extraordinary adventure sparked by the discovery of a precious egg nestled in the woods. Illustrated in Dubuc’s signature soft and inviting watercolors, readers are immersed in the charming world of these woodland companions, who come together to find a solution for their newfound responsibility.

Through Dubuc’s endearing narrative and captivating illustrations, “Everyone Gets a Turn” celebrates the beauty of friendship, the power of community, and the importance of sharing and trusting in one’s resourcefulness. With its timeless message, this delightful picture book is perfect for sharing aloud and inspiring young readers to embrace the spirit of cooperation and kindness.