DANCING HANDS

A child is introduced to a whole new language in this Filipino import.

This gentle, spare narrative opens on Sam observing the new neighbors using Filipino Sign Language. Seeing “their hands move as if to music,” Sam is curious. The neighbors’ young daughter, Mai, walks to school with Sam, at first by happenstance, though later they intentionally seek each other out. The two become fast friends, letting loose and giggling as they carry their school books on their heads. A communication lapse occurs when Sam runs up the hill only for Mai to be left behind (“Mai thought that we were hiding behind a tree”). After the mix-up Mai decides to teach Sam some FSL, allowing Sam’s “hands to dance.” This opens the door to deeper confidence, and the children start sharing their hopes and dreams: “Mai wants to be a teacher. I want to protect our earth.” Alvarez’s deft use of space and color brings vibrancy and movement to the story and characters. The black lines representing Mai’s flowing hair are paired with textured colors and objects invoking a dreamy tone. The duo cement their bond with the sign for friend. A detailed note on the history of Filipino Sign Language and sign language around the world follows. A visual glossary of FSL signs (with words listed in English and Filipino) is included, though curiously it does not indicate the movements of the signs. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A gentle and charming introduction to Filipino Sign Language.