Summary
This is a heartwarming book about a young boy who comes to a new country where he does not know the language. When he is on his journey to school, he discovers that everyone is having a hard time understanding what he is saying, and they think he is speaking “Gibberish”. He becomes insecure and is confused why no one he speaks to can understand him. He is worried that he is not going to be able to make friends because no one can understand him until he meets a friend who make him feel better!
Theme(s):
Friendship, Immigration, Love
Personal Response
I thought this was a really good story to share with young readers because it shares a really important message about being kind and patient with people. It teaches students that people may speak or look different from us but we are all just trying to be friendly. It helps kids to be more accepting of others. The message of the story is so heartwarming, and puts the reader in the shoes of this young boy who is trying his best to be understood in his new country.
Teaching Ideas
One activity to do with students for this book is to have them try to create their own language. Once they have created their own language, they then have to try to talk to other students in the class using their own new language. This will teach them about the frustration new english learners may feel when they are not understood by people when them come to a new country. This is an important life lesson to teach students and help them become more empathetic and patient towards others.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02, Grade 03
