Word Trouble
An uplifting book for children settling into a new environment and learning another language
Age 3+
Picture Storybooks
A beautiful, moving and sensitively told picture book about language barriers, communication and a very young child’s immigrant experience.
When Ronnie moves to a new house, in a new country, he’s excited to make friends. But when he introduces himself to everyone at nursery – “My name is four. I am Ronnie years old.” – the other children can’t help but giggle. His words are all mixed up! Ronnie misses home and laughing with his old friends. But new doesn't stay that way for long...
This authorial debut from Bulgarian author-illustrator Vyara Boyadjieva is honest and uplifting, with Ronnie ultimately discovering that kindness, and laughter, are universal.
Creators
Vyara Boyadjieva is a Bulgarian illustrator and picture book maker. Vyara graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna in 2017 before studying Illustration at the Cambridge School of Art. She was a runner-up of the 2020 V&A Illustration Award in the Student Category. Word Trouble is her debut authorial picture book. Find her on Instagram as @vyaraboya.
Reviews
A lovely story for any child going through a transitionary time, with beautiful illustrations celebrating togetherness.
Reading Matters Guide 2023
A beautifully sensitive depiction of starting a new school as a child with English as an additional language.
CLPE
The tender and sympathetic illustrations are just right […] will be perfect for use in schools and at home to promote understanding.
Books for Keeps
This is a lovely book that will be essential for any primary classroom.
The School Librarian
Vyara Boyadjieva’s warm and caring picture book about moving to a new country – and learning a new language when you’re still learning how to do everything – is a wonderful story about acceptance and resilience. Her pencil drawings are sweet and friendly, and there’s a reassuring message here that if we give new places a chance, they can often turn out to be great.
BookTrust
