Book Bundles: Breaking Bread

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Ken Daley. Joseph misses the camaraderie of shared meals at the refugee camp where he and his mother stayed until they were able to emigrate from East Africa (the glossary explains that he is Acholi). Now they live in a new city where "there are not enough people to eat with." Joseph invites his teacher, family members, and neighbors to come over for a meal, but only his neighbor Whoosh and her mother are able to come. Together, they enjoy a meal of traditional foods and settle into "a rhythm, a beat of people eating together, even if today it's only two more." The vibrant illustrations, full of color and movement (Whoosh is aptly named), nicely complement the poetic text.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Kerns

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Melissa Crowton. Feeling homesick after moving "more than an ocean away" to America, Millie suggests to her class that they build a garden on the school's roof. After gathering supplies, planting seeds, and lots of waiting ("good things take time," their teacher tells them), the children's efforts are rewarded with the first sprouts' appearance. Then the garden takes off, and everyone harvests vegetables and celebrates their success. When Millie takes her first bite of carrot, "it tastes like home." The calm mixed-media illustrations, which feature a diverse and determined group of students tending to the garden, enhance this uplifting story about finding belonging and purpose somewhere new.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Kerns

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Brizida Magro. Mom tells Molly that they will visit a food pantry the next day, explaining, "Everybody needs help sometimes." While waiting in line, Molly spots her classmate Caitlin and is confused when Caitlin seems embarrassed to be there. As they put food in their cart, Molly's mom seems embarrassed, too, so Molly reminds her that it's okay to receive help. They leave with full grocery bags--and find a way to help others, as well. The book gently destigmatizes food insecurity without being preachy; soft illustrations show friendly shoppers and workers, making the pantry look like a welcoming place. A note for adults from the director of the Greater Chicago Food Depository puts fictional Molly's story in context.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Kerns