Okra Stew: A Gullah Geechee Family Celebration by Natalie Daise (review)

Reviewed by: Okra Stew: A Gullah Geechee Family Celebration by Natalie Daise Danica Ronquillo Daise, Natalie Okra Stew: A Gullah Geechee Family Celebration; written and illus. by Natalie Daise. Holt, 2023 [40p] Trade ed. ISBN 9781250849663 $19.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R 4-8 yrs Young Bobo wakes up at the crack of dawn to spend time with Papa as they plan tonight's dinner with a special family dish: okra stew. Together, they pick vegetables out in the garden, throw nets to catch shrimp at the creek, and head back to the kitchen to prepare the delectable feast. While following other recipes for cornbread and rice to complement the stew, Papa recounts his youthful memories of Bobo's grandfather and great grandma, sharing with his son how traditional recipes and cooking utensils have been passed on from generation to generation. Daise's picture book celebrates the deep bond between father and son while also introducing readers to the beautiful and lively Gullah culture. The realistic art style, hand-painted paper collage, and textiles create an authentic representation of the Gullah Geechee's cultural practices that honor Bobo's elders and ancestors, from their sewed baskets to an old black skillet passed down from three generations. The composition and rhythmic text add energy to the melodious atmosphere; Bobo sings while retrieving ingredients, and vegetables and shrimp are readily chopped, sliced, and diced while grains of rice rain down into a pot. An expression of gratitude in the vein of Fry Bread (BCCB 11/19) and Adjepong's Sankofa: A Culinary Story of Resilience and Belonging, reviewed above, this will spur young viewers to gather around the table like Bobo and give thanks: "Tenky for Grandpa, Mama, and Sis too. Tenky for Papa and okra stew!" Back matter includes an author's note about Gullah Geechee culture and history, along with an okra stew recipe for everyone to enjoy. Copyright © 2023 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois