share the joy of culinary knowledge!
Nourishment goes beyond just eating healthy meals (although that is a big part of it!).
It also entails reading about globally inspired recipes and cultivating a connection with food and fun characters. Just like last year, we’ve rounded up our favourite book discoveries for 2023 that are sure to put a smile on faces and spark learning. In fact, we loved the top three so much we gifted them to our clients this year for the holidays. Let’s take a look!
Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao, by Kat Zhang, Art by Charlene Chua
This story intertwines family bonding, making mistakes, and using problem solving to master one’s craft. Amy’s quest towards making the perfect bao bun shows kids how determination and resourcefulness can help you achieve your goals.
Bilal Cooks Daal, by Aisha Saeed, Art by Anoosha Syed
We love this charming tale of Bilal, a young boy who hopes to impress his friends with his cooking prowess and give them a taste of his rich heritage. Join him as he teams up with his dad to prepare an Indian staple dish.
Lentil Soup, by Carole Tremblay, Art by Maurèen Poignonec
A humorous and touching story of two brothers who analyze every ingredient in a delicious bowl of lentil soup — down to the last drop! Learn about lentils, herbs, vegetables, and where they all come from.
This book is also available in French!
honourable mentions
Ramen for Everyone, by Patricia Tanumihardja, Art by Shiho Pate
This heartwarming narrative explores how kids yearn to emulate their parents. Dive into this tale of young Hiro, who wants nothing more than to replicate the same delicious and comforting bowl of ramen that his dad prepares every Sunday.
The Antiracist Kitchen, Edited by Nadia L. Hohn, Art by Roza Nozari
Immerse yourself in 21 stories and recipes from kid-lit authors of colour! This collection book celebrates activism, resistance, family, friends, and food, and illustrates how the simple act of sharing a meal can foster unity among us all.