"My father is not a fisherman.
He is the baker. Every day before the sun rises
and the boats come in, he is safe and warm inside,
busily baking. The comforting aroma of fresh bread
welcomes a new day."
In this story of community, a young boy describes the place he loves and the people who live there. It is his home, and he is proud to be part of it. The people who live there work hard; the sea provides a living for many; and everyone works hard to provide for all.
"The sea is the beating heart of all we do."
Tired when their day is done, the workers go home to rest and get ready for their next day of work. The fishermen are fishing. Despite the hard work and harsh weather, the boy dreams of being a fisherman like so many others. He tells readers that his father does not fish. He spends his time inside where he is warm, and busy with his baking. He feeds many in the seaside village.
The son wants to know if his father has ever been to sea. Yes, but it wasn't for him he tells him. Instead, he found his calling in baking. What would happen without the bread, buns, and biscuits he makes to sustain the workers and other folks in their village? That is surely food for thought, and perhaps a new view for the importance of his father's work.
Using pencil and ink, Paula White creates cozy scenes of people working hard in their village to provide what is needed to sustain it. Grays, blues, and yellows offer a clear look at a way of life from the past, while also sharing the pride of all villagers. An author's note adds context and one of her grandfather's recipes ends the book.
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