LET'S LEARN SPANISH

Whimsical illustrations invite children to learn their first Spanish words.

The book is set out in a simple and clear fashion, each section clearly identified. An introduction tells children “Spanish is the second-most-spoken language in the world” and explains there are regional differences in vocabulary. The “Spanish Basics” section explains the concept of a gendered language and how gender and number must match. There is a cryptic note about “la mano” (the hand) being an exception, with no further explanation. Then comes the real focus of the book, everyday words in a variety of areas: animals, body, food, colors, numbers, school, home, garden, clothing, occupations, family, places, transportation, and weather. Each topic is allotted a double-page spread. The illustrations are whimsical and spare. English is presented in a color matching the general color of the page, followed by the Spanish in black. On occasion, more than one word is given for the Spanish to allow for regional differences. With no pronunciation guide to help children out, it is to be assumed they will need someone who speaks the language to guide them. A better use for the book might be as a picture-dictionary reference tool. The children depicted in the illustrations are paper-white, purple, blue, and green, with no hint of racial or ethnic differences.

Serviceable.