I Talk Like a River
I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott, published by Candlewick Press on May 6, 2025, is a poignant exploration of communication and self-expression. This 40-page book addresses the challenges faced by a boy who stutters, illustrating his feelings of isolation and frustration. Through the supportive presence of his father and a reflective walk by the river, the narrative emphasizes the importance of perspective in finding one’s voice.
Readers will discover a heartfelt story that resonates with themes of self-esteem, family, and social connection. The poetic language captures the boy’s internal struggle while offering a message of hope and understanding. This edition, presented in English, combines Scott’s moving text with illustrations by Sydney Smith, creating a visually engaging experience for children who may feel lost or disconnected.
Official synopsis Publisher
What if words got stuck in the back of your mouth whenever you tried to speak? What if they never came out the way you wanted them to?
Sometimes it takes a change of perspective to get the words flowing.
Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner
A New York Times Best Children’s Book of the Year
I wake up each morning with the sounds of words all around me.
And I can’t say them all . . .
When a boy who stutters feels isolated, alone, and incapable of communicating in the way he’d like, it takes a kindly father and a walk by the river to help him find his voice. Compassionate parents everywhere will instantly recognize a father’s ability to reconnect a child with the world around him.
Poet Jordan Scott writes movingly in this powerful and ultimately uplifting book, based on his own experience, and masterfully illustrated by Sydney Smith, winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Award, the highest international distinction given to author and illustrators of children’s books. Now in paperback, I Talk Like a River is a book for any child who feels lost, lonely, or unable to fit in.
Finalist for the BC and Yukon Christie Harris Illustrated Children’s Literature Prize
A Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book
An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
ILA Primary Fiction Honoree
Named a Best Book of the Year by The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, NPR, Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, Bookpage, School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Publishers Lunch, and more!
A Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of the Year
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
A Bank Street Best Childrens Book of the Year!
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
A CBC Best Picture Book of the Year
A Kids’ Book Choice Award Finalist
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