Description
A young chef’s messy misadventures in the kitchen are quickly forgotten when she comes up with a special recipe all her own.
Sofia is determined to make something extra special for Nonno and Nonna. But mamma mia! She splatters Papa’s tomato sauce all over the kitchen, causes Mama’s bread to rise like a giant marshmallow, and flings Mario’s pizza dough into a ceiling fan! No one wants the help of such a little cook! Sofia retreats with Figaro to the comfort of her favorite swing in the branches of a big, leafy fig tree. Then, with a whoosh! of wind and the plop! of a juicy fig, Sofia gets an idea for a very special treat for her beloved grandparents.
Author Sara Laux Akin’s affectionate and humorous story of a determined and creative chef paired with Susan Hartung’s delightful watercolor illustrations will appeal to gourmets of all ages.
Reviews
“A fun read-aloud.” ―School Library Journal
“Hartung’s watercolors look a little like jigsaw puzzles; they’re evenly lit, with interlocking forms, muted colors, and figures that look like cotton dolls, all of which work to soften the impact of Sofia’s accidents in the kitchen.” ―Publishers Weekly
“A graceful, satisfying text, filled with repetitive lines that read aloud well, and endearing, uncluttered line-and-watercolor pictures that depict both the exciting action in the kitchen and the love shared by Sofia’s family.” ―Booklist
“Soft, watercolor illustrations bring a warm and cozy feel to this tale of independence and family love.” ―Grand Rapids Press
“In this simple yet warming picture book, the author celebrates the food traditions and close ties that family members share, and she shows young readers how their own creativity can make their wishes come true…” ―Through the Looking Glass
“This story is infused with Italian customs and phrases. The illustrations are soft and pleasing to the eye and especially stand out with the book’s descriptive story. For any younger sibling or even only child who wishes they could help or not be just ‘too little’, this story will ring true in his or her heart.” ―University of Alabama Crimson Review
Awards
Best Children’s Books of the Year ―Bank Street College of Education, 2011
Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Primary) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2011
More Details
AR Level: 3.2
F&P: N, Gr 3, Genre RF
Lexile: AD550L
Themes: Cooking, Cooperation, Family
BISAC 1: JUV050000 JUVENILE FICTION / Cooking & Food
BISAC 2: JUV013030 JUVENILE FICTION / Family / Multigenerational
BISAC 3: JUV000000 JUVENILE FICTION / General
