We’re all uniquely different. There’s a world full of people who speak different languages, have different colored skin and hair, and enjoy different cultural events and activities. In Kitty Arceneaux’s Dyani’s Adventure, young Dyani wants to meet some of these people, children her age who come from different countries. She approaches her parents with the idea to explore beyond their neighborhood and they eagerly accept her idea. This is the beginning of their weekend adventures, meeting new faces, making new friends, and learning about different cultures. She learns how to play soccer from Nixon, how to make origami from Mrs. Ono, how to say a few words in Portuguese from Pilar and so much more. It’s a grand adventure, one that could potentially become a lifetime of learning and acceptance.

Kitty Arceneaux’s early chapter book, Dyani’s Adventure, is an engaging and exciting story that leads readers on the journey of discovering the beauty of differences and diversity. The main character, Dyani, is sweet, amicable, and curious. The author develops the characters with care and attention to detail. The plot follows Dyani’s journey of discovery as she meets people, mostly children, from different countries and cultures. The language is simple to help young readers develop their literacy skills. Words provided in different languages are also written out phonetically, so young readers can get an idea of what they sound like. Some line drawings add another dimension to the story. This is an entertaining and educational read.

Dyani’s Adventure by author Kitty Arceneaux introduces young readers to Dyani, an adventurous girl who first wonders why everyone in her neighborhood looks the same. Eager to explore different cultures, Dyani tells her parents about her interests. They are pleased to support her desire to learn about different cultures. Over the next few weeks, they learn new words in other languages, play language games, and try various cultural dishes. These activities build up and ultimately lead to Dyani meeting children from different countries and asking insightful questions about their customs and experiences. Throughout the story, Dyani builds connections with others and her curiosity leads to greater knowledge and wisdom about people.

Kitty Arceneaux’s story is engaging and educational, making cultural exploration accessible and enjoyable for children. I loved how the author weaves linguistics throughout the dialogue, adding a playful element. In this story, language learning is portrayed as a fun activity, as well as exploring new cultures with the family. What stands out most is the genuine bonds Dyani forms with her new friends, showing that while personal experiences may differ, the emotions and connections we share with others are universally relatable. This heartwarming story not only inspires curiosity about other cultures but also emphasizes the importance of empathy and friendship in bridging the gaps between diverse backgrounds. Dyani’s Adventure is a delightful read that will encourage young minds to embrace the richness of cultural diversity. I highly recommend this book for inclusion in children's libraries, classrooms, and homes.