Book Review: Fast and Slow (Bilingual Haitian Creole & English)
As a mom of three, our household often feels like a whirlwind of chaos — toys sprawled everywhere, snack crumbs trailing through the house, and bedtime prayers that somehow lead to deep philosophical discussions about the universe. There’s magic in those moments, but they can also leave us all a bit frazzled! So, when I stumbled upon Fast and Slow (Bilingual Haitian Creole & English) by Barefoot Books, I felt a glimmer of hope. I was looking for something to engage my kids and give us a moment of calm amidst the beautiful whirlwind.
Right from the first page, I knew we’d struck gold. This book introduces our little ones to various modes of transportation, contrasting rapid vehicles like cars and rockets with their slower counterparts — think bicycles and hot air balloons. It’s delightful and simple, making it perfect for my two-year-old, who, like most kids, is completely fascinated by anything that goes vroom-vroom or swoosh!
The bilingual aspect is a cherry on top. As someone who treasures our Haitian roots, I love that this book allows my children to learn first words in both Haitian Creole and English. I must say, it added a whole new level to our reading time. My eldest even started repeating some of the Creole words — a proud mom moment for sure!
The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, each page a feast for little eyes. One night, my toddler sat wide-eyed at the bright images of the speedy rocket blasting off — the sheer joy on his face was priceless! And the slower modes of transportation, like the serene raft floating on water, generated an amazing conversation about how different people might travel. It was a joy to hear my kids compare their favorite vehicles and even lament about their own experiences on our family road trips.
One evening, as we flipped through the book, my five-year-old pointed at the image of a bike and exclaimed, “That’s just like the one I ride!” I was struck not just by her recognition, but also how this book helped bridge personal experiences with learning. They instantly connected their world with the words in the book, igniting lively exchanges about speed and movement.
One of our favorite lines turned out to be "A car is fast; a bike is slow." It prompted a hilarious game of racing our toy cars against our wooden bicycles. Who knew a simple book could turn into an entire evening of play?
I wholeheartedly recommend Fast and Slow for families with toddlers and preschoolers, especially those who might appreciate a blend of language and vivid imagery. The interactive element of comparing fast and slow vehicles lends itself beautifully to read-aloud sessions, sparking conversations about our daily lives and travel adventures. It has quickly become a staple for bedtime, moving beyond a one-time read.
For me, sharing this book has been more than just reading — it has become a cherished experience that brings us together, one page at a time. In the hustle and bustle of parenting, it’s these little moments of connection that remind us of the joy found in simple pleasures. So if you’re seeking a lovely addition to your child’s library, this bilingual gem might just be the perfect find!
Discover the joy of learning with Fast and Slow – a delightful bilingual adventure! >>
