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Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
For most kids, playtime is the best part of the day, but what could make that time even better? In When We Play by Vanessa Guevara, a pair of siblings shows how much fun it is to be together, even when they enjoy different things. Their playful bond shines through as they spend time together in their own unique ways. Told through one child’s eyes, readers see how they share moments, like when they sing, dance with their parents, or play with toys side by side. The bright, cheerful illustrations by Ratu Megawangi show their routines and how they express themselves differently. At its heart, When We Play shows how kids can feel connected through the everyday experiences they share.
As an educator, my heart melts for the two children in the story. Their bond is clear from the start. I appreciate how it wasn’t apparent at the beginning that one of them was non-verbal or had other traits that aren’t typical. As the story moves along, readers will gradually recognize the differences in the siblings without labels or judgment. Children need to learn to accept others despite their differences and the labels that are put on them. I think this book would be suitable for conversations on siblings, play, rules, acceptance, and friendship. It also opens the door for discussions about empathy, patience, and the different ways children express themselves. The pictures are colorful and engaging. When We Play by Vanessa Guervara is an easy-to-understand book that belongs in all early childhood and elementary classrooms.
