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“Laila’s Mama and Baba don’t speak or read English. Fortunately, Laila can help. Like a little bird, she whispers translations into their ears. Still, she feels upset when she hears other children mock her parents. …Over time, as her parents’ English improves, so does Laila’s Chinese. This exploration of the immigrant experience is notable for its depiction of a kind, diverse community that supports Laila’s family as they develop their language skills.”

Kirkus Reviews

Little Bird Laila

Written by Kelly Yang
Illustrated by Xindi Yan
Published by Dial Books

From New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, Kelly Yang and Xindi Yan, is a joyful story of a Chinese American girl translating for her immigrant parents

Laila knows how clever, kind, and funny her Mama and Baba are—but sometimes they need her help translating things from English. With English classes being too expensive, Laila decides to become her parents’ teacher, even though she’s just learning the language too. There’s lots that Laila knows (like you don’t pronounce the t in ballet) but there’s so much she doesn’t know too. Together, they embrace the joy and struggles of learning a new language.

Primary ISBN: 9780593407110
Publication Date: April 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 05 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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