My First Book of Indonesian Words

February 8, 2016
Written in cheerful rhymes, this companion to My First Book of Chinese Words and other titles presents an alphabetical introduction to Indonesian words, expressions, food, and other aspects of the country’s culture. Laud’s sleek digital illustrations feature wide-eyed figures enjoying traditional cuisine (“P is for pedas. It’s so spicy hot you’ll squeal—/ Sambal made from chilies/ we enjoy with every meal”) and taking part in various activities, such as a smiling boy with tousled hair seen surfing (“O is for ombak,/ the waves on the shores,/ rising high, crashing down./ The surfers want more!”). Hibbs provides occasional background and context (noting that the Indonesian language, Bahasa Indonesia, “doesn’t have words that start with Q, V, X, or Z”), rounding out a warm, informative overview of the country’s sights and sounds. Ages 3–up.