Local author Cynthia Leitich Smith sure knows how to speak Texan. In her humorous book Holler Loudly, a boisterous little boy of the same name uses many colloquialisms often heard in these parts, occasionally even within Austin city limits. Throughout the story, and always at the most inopportune times, Holler belts out such phrases such as "yippee ti yi yo," "yahoo," and the ubiquitous "yee haw."
As a baby, Holler's family tried to hush him. Now, as a young child, his family and community are growing more and more irritated with his loud voice. The story addresses when it's appropriate to talk loudly, and when you should use an inside voice. At the state fair, Holler learns an important lesson: sometimes if you stop yelling and just listen, it can be very rewarding. Then, something extraordinary happens, and the young hero uses his trademark voice to save the day. Ultimately, he is honored for his volume, and in an ironic twist, his name appears on a plaque outside a very special building.
This is a fun read-aloud book that will make you want to kick up your boots and turn on that Texas twang. Just be sure to start this one well before bed time, or the kiddos will be hootin' and hollerin' all night long.
Holler Loudly is available at BookPeople. For more on Austin author Cynthia Leitich Smith, visit her blog.
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