Marvellous Messages

Rose, her sign language interpreter, Dev, and Halo, one of her cats, are whisked off on a time-travel adventure by Perky Pigeon. On their journey, they find out about the development of, and varied methods of, communication as well as some of the deaf people who have made a real difference to the world.

Inspired by her personal experiences, Rose Ayling-Ellis has created a very engaging and informative book, a much needed recognition that communication is far from just speaking and listening. Interwoven into a time-travel adventure are many true stories about the ways in which these methods have developed, ‘Messaging Milestones’ timelines and biographies of ‘Rose’s Superstars’.

The book is an essential addition to any bookshelf, but really is a must-have for any school wishing to enrich their students’ learning, to value the contributions of Deaf people and add an excellent, inclusive text to their libraries. So many fascinating facts are included which could add colour and interest across the curriculum, ‘Rose’s Superstars’ could be used to form the basis of an assembly and the book’s narrative non-fiction format means it could also be used as a class story.

From the earliest documented use of sign language at a wedding in Leicestershire, puppy school in Wales, Hawaiian dance gestures, animal body language… there is so much to learn and enjoy about the amazing story of communication.

Marvellous Messages: The amazing story of communication

Rose Ayling-Ellis, illustrated by Lena Addink

DK ISBN: 978-0241681671

You can read my review of ‘Rose Signs Good Morning!’ here.

Rose Signs Good Morning!

It’s a lovely day and Rose sets about her usual morning routine, accompanied by her kitten, Casper. At each stage, she teaches Casper the new sign, allowing readers to join in and learn as well.

Bright and engaging, ‘Rose Signs Good Morning!’ is such a lovely book. Bold, colourful illustrations on each page show Rose as she gets ready in the morning- eating breakfast, brushing teeth, getting dressed- accompanied by an illustration showing how to sign that action using British Sign Language. A mirror on the final page is included, helping readers to see themselves and practise signing. The book offers a very accessible and enjoyable way of learning some frequently used signs, which can be easily expanded by the other books in the series.

In the signing queue for Rose at Hay Festival last week, I was able to ask some people who use signing every day what they thought of the book and how it was presented. Everyone felt that the signs were clearly presented and easy to follow, which led to discussions about the importance of books like this one, which raise the profile of sign language and encourage people to learn it.

Whether looking to introduce children to BSL, choosing an engaging story to enjoy or making sure children see themselves or those they know reflected in their reading, ‘Rose Signs Good Morning!’ and the other books in this series make an excellent addition to any bookshelf.

Rose Signs Good Morning!

Rose Ayling- Ellis

DK ISBN: 978-0241681862