Australia-based author and illustrator duo Sandhya Parappukkaran and Michelle Pereira (Stay for Dinner) reunite for their fourth picture book, Words That Taste Like Home, an encouraging celebration of multilingual backgrounds. Rohan is "born into a language that tickled his toes and kissed his cheeks." He has an especially close bond with Muthassi, his grandmother, with whom he shares stories while they make her irresistible mango pickle.
But one day, Rohan's parents announce the family will move "far away to a country where people [speak] a different language." Through tears, Rohan promises Muthassi he'll call every day, but, eventually, school, a puppy, and a new bike claim his attention. As he strengthens his new language, he begins to forget the exact words he wants to use to describe life to his grandmother, saddened he's "lost the words to tell Muthassi how the wind felt brushing against his cheeks" or what the puppy's "cute little paws" look like. When the family embarks on a visit to Muthassi, Rohan worries they won't be able to share their stories. But memories and love prove to be the perfect ingredients for reconnection.
Pereira's digital, storybook-style illustrations gorgeously capture Parappukkaran's lyrical, heartfelt narrative, which will undoubtedly resonate with diasporic communities. Her fully saturated colors enhance notable details throughout: Rohan's diverse classroom, chaotic airport luggage pickup, and Muthassi's lush gardens. Parappukkaran uses the mango pickle to restore communication as Rohan sprinkles their efforts with "poems and phrases" and seasons "with similes, metaphors, and alliteration." Words That Taste Like Home provides a tasty treat for readers. --Terry Hong