Fermented soybeans, beets, sardines … yum.
Not to Gigi and Lola, but their grandparents enjoy them. And they love their Ojiji (grandfather) and Abuela (grandmother).
With today’s featured books, young readers explore the unfamiliar and the universal. They will learn about Japanese and Guatemalan cultural traditions, and, at the same time, connect with Gigi and Lola in their feelings of trying something new. They’ll also understand that very special bond between a grandparent and a child.
Summary excerpts come from Goodreads. Click the cover to add this book to your TBR.
EASY READER
Ohayo! It’s breakfast time and Gigi can’t wait to make her favorite meal—Peanut Butter Toast. Yummy! But Ojiji doesn’t like peanut butter. How can anyone NOT like peanut butter? Ojiji prefers Japanese foods—like natto, made from fermented soybeans. Will Gigi learn to love a new breakfast treat This story highlights the close relationship of Gigi and her grandfather and the importance of trying new things!
Sarah @ Instagram (reel) – Absolutely lovely book. The book explores several topics: generational households, different cultures and tying new foods. It lead to lots of discussions in our family. It was a great way to do a small introduction of Japanese culture for my kids.
Kirsten @ Goodreads – This is a perfect story for picky eaters and wonderfully includes Japanese vocabulary and culture. This is one of my favorite early readers this year!
EARLY CHAPTER BOOK
Lola attempts to avoid a Day of the Dead disaster in another adventure celebrating her Guatemalan heritage! Lola is excited for Halloween, but Mama is sad to be missing the holiday she loved in Guatemala--the Day of the Dead. Then Lola's family is invited to a Day of the Dead party! When Lola discovers that a Guatemalan dish called Fiambre is on the menu, she panics. She doesn't like her foods to touch, and she really doesn't like beets or sardines! With Abuelita's help, can Lola find the courage to share in the celebration and try something new?
Sarah @ Goodreads -Lola is a loveable character. The author expresses her emotions so well, that it’s like we’re reading about our best friend. The story was relatable for my children in a gentle way. I loved exposing my children to Guatemalan culture without the textbook feeling. I will certainly be reading more books from this series.