Celebrate International Mother Language Day with These 7 Inspiring Books
Language is a powerful tool that connects us to our roots, our communities, and the world around us. This International Mother Language Day, embrace the richness of diverse voices through our collection of stories that inspire, educate, and bring joy.
Every year on February 21, people across the globe come together to celebrate International Mother Language Day, honoring the unique ways we communicate and share our traditions. It’s a day to recognize how stories and voices shape who we are and bring us closer to one another.
To mark this special day, we’ve put together a list of books that highlight the power of cultural storytelling and the richness of language diversity. Perfect for families to read together, these multilingual stories offer a chance to explore new perspectives, spark meaningful conversations, and celebrate the power of words.
Dive into these incredible reads on BookSmart and create lasting memories while celebrating the beauty of our world’s languages!
*If a book link doesn’t work, open BookSmart on your device and search for the title. Reading on a desktop? Click on the book link and then on the ‘start reading’ button.
The Happiness Project by Olivia Wood
Published by Worldreader and Ashoka
Ages 6-8, 9-12
The Happiness Project is inspired by the true story of a young girl in India who aspires to a world where well-being and mental health are a priority for every school, educator, and young person.
► Find your inspiration here.
► Encuentra tu inspiración aquí.
► The Happiness Project is also available in Ewe, Swahili, Twi Akwapi, and Twi Asanti on BookSmart!
Rebecca, The Maasai Changemaker by Olivia Wood
Published by Worldreader and Ashoka
Ages 6-8, 9-12
Rebecca, The Maasai Changemaker is inspired by the true story of a young girl in Kenya who was alarmed by the signs of climate change in her community. She educated herself about the problem, then galvanized her community and the government to take action.
► Learn more about Rebecca here.
► Obtenga más información sobre Rebecca aquí.
► Rebecca, The Maasai Changemaker is also available in Ewe, Swahili, Twi Akwapi, and Twi Asanti on BookSmart!
Sleep Tight, Tiger by BG Bradford
Published by Worldreader Originals
Ages 0-5
As a child prepares for bed, they tell us all about their routine. Wind down with this delightful, rhyming bedtime story that will surely become an instant classic. Children and caretakers alike will rejoice reading it together, time and time again.
► Get ready for bed here.
► Prepárate para ir a la cama aquí.
► Sleep Tight, Tiger is also available in Ewe, Twi Akwapi, and Twi Asanti on BookSmart!
When You Get Mad! by Dunyazad al-Saadi
Published by Asala Publishers
Ages 6-8
Have you ever felt angry because you were misjudged or you weren’t given the chance to defend yourself? Me too! Let me tell you how I learned to express my anger more productively.
► Learn strategies here.
► Aprenda estrategias aquí.
► When You Get Mad! is also available in Arabic and Swahili on BookSmart!
Words of the World by Diana Ferraro
Published by Worldreader and My Special Word
Ages 0-5, 6-8
Discover special words from all over the world as children from different countries talk about their special words and how they guide them. Who are you, and what is your special word?
► Learn the special words here.
► Aprenda las palabras especiales aquí.
► Вивчіть спеціальні слова тут.
► Words of the World is also available in Ewe, Twi Akwapi, and Twi Asanti on BookSmart!
Zuri’s Gift by Kezia Agbenyega and Elizabeth Wood
Published by Worldreader Originals
Ages 0-5
On her birthday night, Zuri saves a special gift to open last. What magical adventures await? Join Zuri in a tale of bravery and wonder!
► Read about Zuri’s adventures here.
► Lea sobre las aventuras de Zuri aquí.
► Zuri’s Gift is also available in Swahili on BookSmart!
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