A native of South Carolina, Alexander Smalls is a successful cookbook author, chef, and restaurant owner. This new children’s book by Smalls and coauthor Millner is based on a true story that took place in Smalls’ home and life when he was a young boy. The book is inspiring because it reminds readers that successful older people often begin honing their skills and talents as inexperienced young people.
The themes of family and multi-generational family togetherness feature prominently as Smalls describes why Sunday dinners were his favorite events as a child.
The book touches on important family dynamics: the guidance and encouragement of a mother, the role and social influence of a father, and the helpfulness of a grandfather.
This book can be used as a springboard to meaningful conversations between children and adults as they ponder and discuss favorite foods, favorite family events, hobbies, gifts, and blessing others.
The vivid illustrations are beautifully rendered and invite the reader into the story.
On the final page of the story is a special recipe children can create with the help of an attentive parent or grandparent. (Simon &Schuster)
About the Author
Amie Spriensma is an online chaplain for ReFrame Ministries and a regional disability advocate for the CRC. She lives, works, and worships in Allendale, Mich., where she is a member of Rusk CRC.