A little mouse walks into the Lost & Found, but can only speak Maltese. How will Mr and Mrs Frog figure out what the mouse is missing…? Aimed at children aged 2-7, the unique ‘Story-powered language learning method’ combines humour, story and emotion to gently and memorably introduce kids to 50 simple and fun Maltese words and phrases. “The kids were so busy laughing they didn’t realise they were learning.” Kyle Buchannan, Dad of two, London. It’s a bilingual children’s book with a difference, that helps lay the foundations of a love of languages.
Reviews:
“I love that I can introduce my kids to a new language without it feeling like homework.” Zoe Reynolds, UK
“Let’s read it again.” Noah, aged 4.5
"Utterly charming story, making use of children’s natural approach to learning language” Madalena Xanthopoulou, Founder, The Alma Collective. Expert on raising multilingual children.
"A wonderful book to introduce a new language into the classroom. Lots to talk about and really captIvating illustratIons." Rohan Plunkett, Deputy Head, Akiva Primary School.
How does the Story Powered Language Learning Method work?
Unlike a Maltese picture dictionary, bilingual Maltese English children’s books, or traditional Maltese language books, the Fabulous Lost and Found uses the the ‘Story-powered Language Learning Method’ taps into a child’s natural abilities. There are three steps:
- We create an emotionally engaging and funny story for children and adults to enjoy together, just like any of the other Maltese books for children. Studies show that social interaction, like enjoying a book together, is critical in language learning.
- Through the story, we introduce a relatable character who speaks only in the new language. This helps build empathy and a positive attitude towards people who speak different languages. These are both important aspects in laying the foundations for lasting language acquisition in a child’s life.
- As the story in this Maltese picture book progresses, the child naturally works with the characters to discover the meanings of a wide range of fun new words and phrases. Strategic use of humour ensures that this subconscious learning is rewarded with laughter; the child feels good and the first seeds of a lifelong love of language are sown.
Message from the Author
Mark Pallis There is a special magic about learning words another language and using them: I truly think it warms the heart. I've learnt jokes or songs in ten languages so far and it's brought me so much joy. This Maltese book for children is first and foremost a really enjoyable story, but it's also my way of helping little learners engage with a new language, empathise with strangers and ultimately build a love of languages. And it happens without them realising. Any parent who has ever tried to smuggle vegetables into pasta sauce will know that you can get a lot of good stuff into things without kids noticing. This book is the same! I want you all to have fun together and enjoy the story. The learning is a bonus; the icing on the cake or extra veg in the sauce! The idea that after a few reads, kids will be able to go up to a native speaker and tell them in their own language: 'I've lost my hat' fills me with joy. Imagine how proud the child, and you, will feel! I hope you have as much fun reading it as I had writing it. Mark
Suitable for: Maltese language learning, learning maltese for kids, speak maltese for kids, teach maltese to children, maltese language for beginners, book in maltese language, story for kids in maltese and english, side by side maltese and english, dual language maltese
Mark Pallis is a lifelong lover of language. He was originally a lawyer but switched to the creative sector and devised the award winning BBC TV drama Garrow's Law and served as Story Editor over its three series. Since then, Mark built up 15 years' experience in communication, branding and storytelling, including as Creative Director of a busy London ad agency, writing episodes for the Daytime Emmy winning Tales of Peter Rabbit and sitting on the Executive Committee of the Children's Media Foundation. He is represented by the BKS Agency and his first children's book 'Crab and Whale' has been translated into five languages. He lives with his wife and two young children.
Peter Baynton is an animator, director and illustrator based in London. He is the Animation Director of the UK's Channel 4's new 2019 Christmas film, The Tiger Who Came To Tea, adapted from Judith Kerr's classic book. He has been directing short films, music videos and commercials for twelve years, picking up over 25 awards at film festivals around the world along the way. He has also worked as a storyboard artist on the BAFTA winning CBeebies show Sarah & Duck, and in 2017 was the 2D Animation Director for Paddington 2. This year he decided to pursue a long-held desire to illustrate a children's book, and was enchanted by Mark's manuscript for The Fabulous Lost and Found.
