Little Bird Laila

“Mama calls me her little bird. I’m always whispering in her ear, telling her everything that’s going on,” begins this enthusiastic picture book narrated by a child, Laila, who often translates English for her Chinese-speaking parents. “It’s pretty cool being so important all the time,” but, Laila admits, “it’s also a lot of work.” When English classes for her parents prove spendy (“People say America is free, but it’s actually really expensive”), Laila offers to teach them—though she’s still learning idioms (“Maybe I can spread my wings and try!”). As the winning, bright-eyed protagonist takes the lead, Yang and Yan focus on sunny, funny moments while lightly acknowledging that “it’s not easy teaching old birds new tricks.” Digital paintings feature fully realized, expressive figures against desaturated scenery. Background characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 5–9. (Apr.)