I Talk Like a River

This powerful and uplifting picture book, based on author Jordan Scott's own experience, tells the story of a boy who stutters and feels frustrated and alone because his words don't come out as he intends. His kind father takes him on a walk by the river, helping him to see his speech not as a flaw, but as something natural and flowing, like the river itself. Masterfully illustrated by Sydney Smith, this book offers a beautiful metaphor for embracing one's unique voice and finding self-acceptance. It's perfect for children aged 4-11 who may feel different, struggle with communication, or need a reminder of a parent's unconditional love and support.

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