Fiction

Fiction genre

Snowglobe

Given the opportunity to enter Snowglobe, the last place on Earth that’s warm, where its residents, in exchange for fame, fortune and safety, broadcast their lives 24/7 to the less fortunate outside, Chobahm discovers reality is a lie–and the truth is out of reach.

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.

My Strange Shrinking Parents

“One boy’s parents travel from far-off lands to improve their son’s life. But what happens next is unexpected. What does it mean when your parents are different? With humor and pathos, Sworder reflects on the strange nature of giving and receiving love and celebrates those parents who embrace a hard life for themselves in the hope of a better life for their children”– Provided by publisher

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.