Words That Taste Like Home
Sandhya Parappukkaran, illustrated by Michelle Pereira
Notable book in the category of Picture Book of the Year
Entries in this category should be outstanding books of the Picture Book genre in which the author and illustrator achieve artistic and literary unity or, in wordless picture books, where the story, theme or concept is unified through illustrations.
But when Rohan’s family moves abroad, he starts learning a new language, and the one he once shared so easily with Muthassi begins to fade. Their conversations become less frequent and a little harder, but even a few familiar words still carry the warmth of home. It’s during a return visit that Rohan reconnects with his first language, and the emotional depth it holds.
This book gently explores what it means for children to grow up between languages and cultures. For bilingual families, it’s a celebration of heritage and the importance of keeping those early connections alive. For others, it offers a compassionate glimpse into the lives of multilingual children.
With vibrant illustrations by Michelle Pereira and a touching story by Sandhya Parappukkaran, Words That Taste Like Home invites parents and children to reflect on identity, belonging, and the beauty of holding on to where we come from, even as we grow into something new.
More Books by Sandhya Parappukkaran and Michelle Pereira
