Yumbo Gumbo

February 15, 2024
Grades 1-3 Visiting her grandparents Mam� and Pap�, with Mom, Dad, and little brother, Beau, Annabelle's excited about learning to make gumbo--"Yumbo!"--especially with okra. But Beau wants to use chicken instead ("no slimy okra!"), and won't budge. So, Annabelle has everyone vote--but they're evenly split. Pap� suggests another option--seafood--which also brings a tie. Then Annabelle tries a different tack: they all vote for their most "unyumbo" choice, and that outcome, with Anabelle's creative thinking, ultimately provides a solution that satisfies everyone. Bright, cartoon illustrations enliven, depicting Annabelle and her multicultural family happily cooking together. This title under the ""Storytelling Math" banner positively portrays family and traditions around an inviting, relatable food theme, all while accessibly introducing concepts around gathering data and finding workable resolutions through voting, as well as logic problems and considering multiple perspectives. An appendix for adults/educators includes a glossary of Louisiana Creole terms interspersed throughout, a brief history of gumbo and its ingredients, discussion prompts, and ideas for linking the concepts in the story to kid-friendly situations, like selecting snacks for a group.

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March 1, 2024

K-Gr 2-This engaging picture book introduces the cultural importance of food, family traditions, and decision-making as Annabelle and her brother Beau embark on a culinary adventure at their grandparents' house. There, they face the delicious dilemma of choosing what type of gumbo they should make. The story skillfully blends entertainment with education while incorporating elements, such as data collection and deductive reasoning. The digital media illustrations vividly depict a large and diverse Creole family and provide a visually appealing experience for readers. The book seamlessly weaves in the history of gumbo with making choices, demonstrating the importance of conflict negotiation, and the democratic process. The story not only celebrates cooking and culture but also highlights the significance of compromise and family traditions. Back matter includes a Creole glossary to fill out more cultural nuances of the story, as well as an author's note and other valuable content to help readers make connections. VERDICT While all readers will miss and crave a recipe for yumbo gumbo, this is a must-read for future chefs, budding data analysts, and aspiring family counselors. Its appeal extends to STEM book collections, making it an excellent addition for diverse learning.-Lynne Stover

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