I Talk Like a River
I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott is an illustrated book published by Holiday House on September 1, 2020. This 40-page work explores the challenges faced by a boy who stutters, capturing his feelings of isolation and the struggle to communicate. Through a supportive relationship with his father and a reflective walk by the river, the narrative emphasizes the importance of perspective in finding one’s voice.
Readers will encounter themes of self-esteem, family dynamics, and social challenges as they navigate the boy’s journey. The poetic storytelling, inspired by the author’s personal experiences, aims to resonate with children who may feel lost or disconnected. The illustrations by Sydney Smith complement the text, enriching the emotional depth of this poignant exploration of communication and connection.
Official synopsis Publisher
Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner
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.
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. 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
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “I Talk Like a River” about?
Who is the author of “I Talk Like a River”?
When was “I Talk Like a River” published?
What is the ISBN for “I Talk Like a River”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
