By Lisa Swayze, Buffalo Street Books
This fall there seem to be more new books about food and cooking for children than ever before. We’re especially excited about the many different family and cultural traditions celebrated in these books. Here are some of our favorite new picture books (recommended for children 2-6 & their grownups). Be sure to get these books from local, independent bookstores in your area. Happy reading and cooking!
Let Me Fix You a Plate
By Elizabeth Lilly. A young girl celebrates two parts of her family and their traditions in this heartwarming picture book perfect for families who travel over the holidays.
Tomatoes for Neela
By Padma Lakshmi, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal This book illustrates and honors cooking between generations and includes a recipe for Neela’s Tomato Chutney.
Dumpling Day
By Meera Sriram, illustrated by Ines de Antunano, recipes by Laurel P. Jackson Readers follow ten diverse families as they cook dumplings inside their homes in preparation for a neighborhood potluck. Authentic recipes for all the dumplings and a map showing their regions of origin are included in the endnotes.
Every Cake Has a Story
By Christina Tosi, illustrated by Emily Balsley Christina Tosi of Milk Bar is known for baking outside the lines, and this new picturebook encourages children to dream, think, create, and bake with imagination.
Jazz for Lunch
By Jarrett Dapier, illustrated by Eugenia Mello What could be better than cooking while listening to jazz? In this picturebook kids can learn about jazz greats and great food.
May Your Life Be Deliciosa
By Michael Genhart, illustrated by Loris Lora Another great holiday pick as Rosie celebrates Christmas Eve with her family making tamales at her Aubela’s house.
Niki Nakayama: A Chef’s Tale in 13 Bites
By Debbie Michiko Lawrence, Jamie Michalak, illustrated by Yuko Jones Tells the life story (so far!) of powerhouse Japanese chef Niki Nakayama.
Kalamata’s Kitchen
By Sarah Thomas and Derek Wallace; illustrated by Jo Kosmides Edwards Kalamata and her alligator sidekick explore food, go on adventures, and learn to face their fears.
Dinner on Domingos
By Alexandra Katona, illustrated by Claudia Navarro Warm memories wash over a first-generation Latinx American girl as she experiences a typical Sunday night dinner at her Abuelita’s house.
Lisa Swayze is the General Manager & Head Buyer at Buffalo Street Books, Ithaca’s community-owned independent bookstore.
