The Little Explorer's Words

""The Little Explorer's Words"" is a delightful and innovative children's book that takes young readers on a captivating journey through the richness of language and culture. Authored by Evi Triantafyllides, this enchanting tale is beautifully complemented by the vibrant illustrations of Nefelimalekou that highlight how we are all connected, how we all belong. The story follows the adventures of a curious little explorer, Lexi, whose curiosity leads her on a global journey. At each stop, she picks up one of 30 untranslatable words from various corners of the world. Each word is not only a linguistic gem but also a window into the unique cultural landscapes that shape our world. The narrative is engaging, with just the right amount of whimsy to capture the imaginations of readers, young and old alike. The protagonist's journey is filled with wonder, discovery, and connections to each other and the world around them. I especially like that as Lexi meets new friends, the author lets us know their names. We know that even if we don't have a word for the feeling - all humans share the feeling. The real magic, however, lies in the introduction of the 30 untranslatable words. Each word is accompanied by a charming illustration that visually encapsulates its essence, aiding comprehension and enriching the overall storytelling experience. From ""Pochemuchka"" (Someone - usually a child --who asks a lot of questions all the time.) to ""Mamihlapinatapai"" (a look shared between two people who both desire to initiate something but are reluctant to start), these words offer a fascinating peek into the diverse ways cultures express nuanced emotions and experiences. The inclusion of these untranslatable words serves not only as a linguistic lesson but also promotes cultural awareness and empathy. It opens a dialogue about the beauty of diversity and the importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives. The book is well-paced, with a perfect balance of text and visuals, making it suitable for both independent reading and shared reading experiences. The language is accessible to young readers, and the inclusion of the words and where they are from ends the book. The text both begins and ends with gorgeously illustrated end-pages. I feel incredibly lucky to be the first of what surely will be many positive reviews for ""The Little Explorer's Words."" It is a gem of a children's book that seamlessly introduces young readers to the wonders of language and also fosters a sense of curiosity, empathy, and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures around the world. I highly recommend this book as part of home and classroom libraries! - Jeni Zerphy (educator & teacher) as reviewed on Goodreads