We Laugh Alike/Juntos Nos Reimos by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand

 

We Laugh Alike/Juntos Nos Reimos by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand

Bernier-Grand, C. T. (2021). We laugh alike. Charlesbridge. (A. Bermudez, Illustrator) ISBN 9781623540968

While speaking different languages may present different problems, speaking completely different languages from their new friends does not bother these six kids as they learn to communicate with each other through the language of laughter. 

This book was very cute! I loved how the English-speaking children's dialogue was in English and the Spanish-speaking children's in Spanish. While that may be confusing for readers who are not Spanish and English, it gives them the perfect opportunity to step into the shoes of the children in the book, who, like the reader, need help understanding the conversations.  This book illustrates that even though the barrier for these children is language, you do not need to speak the same language to have fun!  The children in this book were fully able to connect with each other and create genuine connections using nonverbal communication.  While speaking different languages may be an issue that creates very evident problems for adults, it does not bother the children in this book, and rather than being discouraged that they could not speak with their new friends, they found ways to overcome the challenge. By doing so, they walked away with new friends!

The six children in this title are diverse, including the three Spanish-speaking kids.  The Spanish in the book is not very advanced, though that is an advantage as it can help those who do not speak Spanish understand what is happening.  Additionally, if the reader still needs clarification about the Spanish part of the book, the illustration paints a clear picture of what the language is depicting.  Finally, if there is some confusion even after the pictures, the author provides a glossary at the end of the book that provides an English transition to the Spanish words and phrases that appeared in the book.  Despite half the book being in a different language, the message is clear: you do not need to speak the same language to connect with others!  If there is a will, then there will be a way to connect, no words needed.

What do readers think of We Laugh Alike?  Kirkus Review calls it "a sweet demonstration of how friendship can transcend language barriers." After reading the book, readers can discuss points in their life where they have had similar experiences to the six children, and discuss how they overcame those obstacles.  Chances are, almost everyone has faced a situation where you have not been able to properly convey what you feel, so reflect on that moment.  If you enjoyed this title you may also enjoy The Place Where You Live/El Lugar Donde Vives by Gabriela Baeza Ventura and James Luna.

Awards and Honors for We Laugh Alike:

• While no specific awards or honors could be found for the title, professional reviews for We Laugh Alike are written by Kirkus Reviews and Booklist Reviews.

References

Bernier-Grand, C. T. (2021). We laugh alike. Charlesbridge. (A. Bermudez, Illustrator) ISBN 9781623540968

We laugh alike / Juntos Nos REÍMOS. Kirkus Reviews. (2021, April 13). https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/carmen-t-bernier-grand/we-laugh-alike-juntos-nos-reimos/