My First Book of Indonesian Words: An ABC Rhyming Book of Indonesian Language and Culture

by Linda Hibbs, Julia Laud (Illustrator)

My First Book of Indonesian Words introduces Indonesian language and culture to young children in a fun, playful way.

The familiar ABC rhyming structure combines with sparkling illustrations to encourage the natural ability of children to pick up new languages and vocabulary quickly. Words for things kids already know in English are joined by words specific to Indonesia, giving kids a glimpse into Indonesian life and culture.

Everyday expressions—like "Apa kabar?" which means "How are you?"—give kids a chance to communicate in a meaningful way and show them that when it comes to courtesy and friendliness, other cultures have a lot in common with their own. Cultural and linguistic notes are added for the parents to enhance the Indonesian learning experience. The cheerful illustrations depict a friendly and culturally rich nation, where the people are happy to know you and to share a bit of who they are and how they live.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published February 2, 2016

Reviews

[Arminzerella · Rating 3 out of 5]

This colorful, rhyming book introduces children to some Indonesian words. While the words seem a little random (Indonesian doesn't use all of the English alphabet, so to get around that some words that start with Q or X, for instance, are the English words with an Indonesian translation), the cultural information is interesting and relevant. Not a good primer of common words or important phrases you might need as a traveler.

[Alison Zak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each page of this wonderful book introduces a new Indonesian word, one for each letter of the alphabet. The words included are relevant to children, fun to say, and introduced to the reader in a rhyme. The illustrations are adorable- cartoony in a creative and tasteful way. Children will also learn about Indonesian culture. Helpful notes in small print assist adult readers who may not be familiar with Indonesian pronunciation. I highly recommend this book!

[Kei · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bought this book for my future children. But the alphabet list isn't complete and there're some mistakes (e.g. wrong flag, wrong spelling, wrong example). It's a very nice book for children, but very poorly proofread (it's really annoying to read for people like me who speak the language fluently). It should've been proofread by someone whose mother tongue is Indonesian.

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Introduces 26 words or phrases in Bahasa Indonesia. There's one word for each letter of the English alphabet, most are Indonesian words that start with that letter and are common in Indonesia. For the four letters Indonesia does not include, an English word is chosen and the Indonesian equivalent is introduced. Each word or phrase is introduced in a four line rhyme, with the vocab word in Indonesian and English in bold to help readers. Occasionally a second text box with further information/clarification will appear on the page. There is a pronunciation guide in the front of the book.

Another great intro to language from Tuttle. They do a good job of picking a balance of vocab kids will know plus unique vocab to that culture. I liked the computer graphics illustrations for this one too.