Green Papayas, written by Nhung N. Tran - Davies and illustrated by Gillian Newland. Red Deer Press, Fitzhenry and Whiteside, 2023. $21.95 ages 4 and up

"We bring Oma lunch,
hot rice with soy and veggies. 
The steam rises and her nose curls
with delight. 
She smiles. She hugs. And then she asks, 
"What's your name, my dear?"
In the warmth of her love we remain, 
helping her eat."

Three children play happily in the front yard before their mother calls them to go to the hospital to visit their Oma. She has been in care for a few days, and the children are eager to spend time with her. They accept that she does not know their names, and they appreciate the story their mother tells while they visit. 

It is the story of a woman who lived far from where they are. Because of poverty, she did not finish school. Her help was needed to take care of the land and the chickens. When her work was done and the sun had set, she turned to reading by moonlight. 

The story pauses as they help Oma eat her lunch, and offer her love even though she cannot remember them. 

Mama continues, adding that the woman was mother to six kids and cared for them on her own. Although there was never enough food, the children did not suffer. Their mother went to sleep hungry.

 Another pause for a short walk with Oma whose love is always evident during the visit. 

The next part of the story tells of the war that required the woman to keep her family safe, sheltered, and clothed. 

Again, it is time for Oma to rest. 

Following Oma's death, as time passes the family is able to recall all that was so important about their grandmother. Mama shares the last part of the woman's story. 

" ... she gathered her children and hid them. 
In a boat, she carried them away from the 
hunger, away from the tears. 
And by the light of the stars, by the light of 
the moon, she gave them dreams. 

Stories are the ultimate reminder and connection to family and heritage. The soothing storytelling allows readers to fully understand the sacrifices parents make to give their children the best life they can. The gentle, expressive artwork glows with the green of the papayas from Oma's home country and offers a close look at the love Oma has always had for her family.