March 8

#IBLPKidLit: Communicators– Building Connections and Understanding

The Communicators attribute of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile highlights the importance of expressing ideas effectively, listening actively, and collaborating with others. Strong communication skills enable students to engage confidently in discussions, adapt to diverse perspectives, and build meaningful relationships. Whether through speaking, writing, or visual storytelling, communicators bridge gaps, foster teamwork, and develop cultural awareness—essential skills for success in both academics and life. By nurturing this attribute, students become empowered to share their voices and contribute thoughtfully to the world around them.

Each of these books demonstrates the communicator attribute through their focus on interaction, expression, understanding, and the importance of language in fostering connections among individuals. They encourage readers to develop their communication skills in various contexts, laying a foundation for effective interpersonal relationships.

What Does Little Crocodile Say by Eva Montanari

Through playful sound words (zzzt, splash, vroom vroom), expressive illustrations, and an engaging first-day-of-school storyline, the book encourages young readers to vocalize, listen actively, and connect with emotions. By mimicking sounds, identifying feelings, and anticipating the next moment, young children develop essential communication skills in a fun and interactive way. This charming story reminds us that communication isn’t just about words: it’s about expressing, listening, and understanding each other.

What Does Little Crocodile Say 

Written by Eva Montanari

2021, Tundra Books

ISBN: 9780735268135

King Sejong Invents an Alphabet by Carol Kim 

This biography of King Sejong highlights his determination to create a new alphabet for all Koreans, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in achieving social equality. King Sejong’s leadership and advocacy for literacy demonstrate how communication can empower individuals and communities. The narrative illustrates his commitment to ensuring that everyone could read and write, showcasing how a strong communicator can influence societal change. Through this story, readers learn about the significance of language as a tool for connection and understanding across cultures.

King Sejong Invents an Alphabet 

Written by Carol Kim, Illustrated by Cindy Kang

2021, Albert Whitman & Company

ISBN: 9780807541616

Oy! Santa by Joyce Schriebman

In this humorous holiday tale, the interactions between a Jewish boy and Santa exemplify effective communication through dialogue and playful conversations. The story revolves around misunderstandings on Hanukkah and discussions that arise during the festive season, highlighting the importance of clear communication in forming meaningful relationships. The characters’ exchanges encourage readers to appreciate different perspectives and express their feelings openly. This book serves as a reminder that good communication is essential for resolving conflicts and building strong connections with others.

Oy! Santa 

Written by Joyce Schriebman, Illustrated by Gila von Meissner

2024, Intergalactic Afikoman

ISBN: 9781951365226

Nothing by Nicholas Day

I had a rare privilege to experience this book and John Cage’s 4’33” in person during one of our school concerts. Nicholas Day’s Nothing masterfully embodies the Communicator attribute by exploring sound, silence, and the nature of expression. Inspired by John Cage’s 4’33”, the book challenges readers to engage in active listening, appreciating the ambient sounds around them. Through thought-provoking questions and vibrant illustrations by Chris Raschka, it sparks dialogue about what defines music and silence. By valuing inquiry and multiple perspectives, Nothing encourages readers of all age to listen, reflect, and communicate in new and meaningful ways.

Nothing 

Written by Nicholas Day, Illustrated by Chris Raschka

2024, Neal Porter Books

ISBN: 9780823454099

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Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian, Founding Chair of the Toucan Award, and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian

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