Juhi loves helping her Appa sell flowers to the local community. In Appa’s flower shop, Juhi knows the language of love – lilies for adoration, irises for hugs and kisses. She knows the language of faith – frangipani for full moon days, red hibiscus for the temple. But when her Appa tells her that her favourite customer has passed away, she does not know the language of grief. While Appa makes a bouquet of lilies and orchids to bring to Mr Potter’s funeral, Juhi decides to make him one final bouquet of her own. What flowers will she choose to remember a man who was always so full of life? A moving story about grief, self-expression, and finding reasons to celebrate even at life’s toughest moments.
Children’s Book Council’s Hot Off The Press in September 2024
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Shyala is a content strategist, author, and screenwriter whose stories center around navigating immigrant life and finding magic. Born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Shyala now lives in London with her family.
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Aaron is a Filipino illustrator, best known for his expressive brushstrokes. His works have earned recognition from the Philippine Board on Books for Young People and the Society of Illustrators. He draws inspiration from childhood, nature, and everyday life.
“Smith’s spare but graceful prose is brought to life by Asis’ vibrant artwork. Flowers and people alike pop against white backdrops; visible brushstrokes imbue the tale with intimacy. Juhi’s ability to communicate complex emotions in nonverbal ways is a joy to behold. A touching tale of love, community, and expression.”
- Kirkus Reviews
“This lovely, sensitive and insightful picture book could massively boost the number of young children deciding to become florists. The vibrant illustrations and a beautifully understated story convey so much, and how exciting too to learn about flowers and what they can signify.”
- LoveReading4Kids
“Shyala Smith’s sensitive story is accompanied by Aaron Asis’s vibrant illustrations, full of movement and expression. From the kaleidoscope endpapers, to brushstroke figures and flowerscapes packed with meaning, every spread is a visual treat. I particularly love how the bright flowers that Juhi arranges stand out against the white bouquets - a wonderful meeting of tradition and modernity.”
- The Little Literary Society
“The Language of Flowers is a marvellous picture book exploring the themes of bereavement and empathy through a beautifully worded story with vibrant illustrations that bring to life the flowers that are so central to the storyline. Shyala Smith gently introduces the theme of loss in a way that opens the door for discussion without creating an overwhelming feeling of sadness. The story has a gorgeous ending which focuses on remembering the happy times shared with a loved one who has passed, instead of leaving the reader with simply a feeling of loss.”
- Spy Readers
“Wow, did this book tug at my heartstrings. It is a beautiful story that shows the magic of using your gifts to help others as well as the power of kindness.”
- Bright Wish Books
“Smith’s evocative storytelling is complemented by Aaron Asis’ vibrant illustrations, which bring to life the beauty of Appa’s flower shop. This heartwarming picture book, suitable for children aged four to eight, explores how beauty can provide solace in the face of loss.”
- San Francisco Book Review
“Vasco’s words and Palomino’s dazzling illustrations, full of movement and color, create a story of blooming. Girls become women; letters become words; a pueblo becomes literate. It’s a powerful read for parents and children whose upbringings are radically different.”
- The New York Times