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Reviewed by Elaine Wills, Library Manager, Enner Glynn School, Nelson
Opening sentence
You may think talking is the only way to say something. Well, it is one way.
The title of this book is very apt, More Than Words. It shows the reader that there are many ways to communicate other than just talking. The story is told through a series of child interactions and sharing across many different but typical school day activities. Readers may be introduced to communication tools they are unfamiliar with, such as braille, and apps on digital devices. They may not realise some everyday activities are a form of expression such as singing, playing and even clothing.

The book highlights the actual communication with bold, colourful text amongst the bright illustrations and many different cultures are represented in the images. Each page is a delight with so much detail and information portrayed. There are subtle indicators of children with different needs like wheelchairs and glasses which compliments the inclusive nature of the book. While the text does not address why some people communicate differently there is information at the back about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and the what, why and how of communication.
Author & Illustrator: Roz MacLean
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co
ISBN: 9781250864505
Format: Hardback
Publication: Dec 2023
Ages: 4-8 years
Themes: Communication, inclusiveness