Words have meaning. In Words by Katherine Davis-Gibbon, you will begin to see how words are just like people. Each word is distinct and wonderful in its own way. Each word has something unique to say. Just like kids, words meet up and play with each other. Sometimes, they fly high, and other times, they dig deeper to create something completely new. Some words are the best of friends, yet others can't stand each other. Words also make us feel all sorts of emotions. There are times when the words we want to say don't come out, and then there are times when the wrong word comes out at the wrong time. However, words also offer us chances to make amends. But only if we're brave enough to think them through.

Katherine Davis-Gibbon builds upon an interesting premise to craft an entertaining picture book centered around "words." The setting is very immersive as the young reader is dropped into a park where a diverse group of children engage with words that possess distinct personalities. The illustrations are lively and colorful, and the narrative is light-hearted and playful yet surprisingly poignant at times. The author shows readers the similarities between words and people. Everyone is different and has something of their own to offer the world, which holds true for both words and people. Young readers will discover the power of words and their magical influence in the world around us. Overall, Words is a fantastic picture book for children in elementary school. I really enjoyed reading it, and I'm sure young readers will feel the same!

Words have multiple meanings. Did you know that “the same word that hurt/ Can also heal”? Words also reflect who we all are: the unique qualities that make us so special. In Katherine Davis-Gibbon’s Words, words come to life. In a park full of multicultural children and families, words take on diverse meanings. Sometimes the words hurt and make others frightened. Other times, words are kind, reflective, creative and so much more, all full of positive possibilities. Words can be friends – they do have a special radiance of magic that makes them there all the time, whether you need them or not.

In Katherine Davis-Gibbon’s picture book, Words, young readers will learn the intense power of words – both good and bad. Setting the story in a park full of young families and children, the author presents multiple scenarios of how words are used. Words develop their own superpowers that allow them to express themselves with or without the individual’s input. Words are just there, an inner voice and an outer reflection. “Words can be tricky/ But they’re always here/ Waiting for you/ To find them/ And speak them/ And write them/ And sing them.” Words are also there just so you can think them. The language is simple and young readers will certainly start to recognize some keywords – like ‘words,’ of course. The illustrations are superb and add to the flavor and context of this conceptual children’s book. This is a great way to introduce young readers to the power of language – the power of words.