"At the fifth dinging doorbell
this holiday I see:
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEEEEEESE!
Four pounds of chitlins,
three posh sibs,
two selfie queens
and a sweet potato pie just for me."
If you are looking for a book about celebrating holidays of any kind, this might be just the one for you. Using the format of The Twelve Days of Christmas, it tells the story of a family party. Each ding of the doorbell ushers in new visitors who add to the joy of the celebration.
The first offering is exactly what our child narrator is hoping for ... a sweet potato pie. As each member of the family group arrives, the house becomes more boisterous and over-filled. All dishes are added to a communal table or two to accommodate the many guests. The cumulative nature of the story constantly impresses upon readers the growing number of foods to be eaten and fun to be had. Kids love the repetitive nature of such books ... the ever-increasing accumulation of foods and noise amps up the energy and delight for them. As the party moves forward and becomes overwhelming, the words and tone in the verses change.
By the time the doorbell has dinged eleven times, much of the food is gone to feed those in attendance, including the sweet potato pie! Oh, the sorrow seen on the little girl's face is clearly visible. How sad that she missed what she wanted most. The verse for the twelfth dinging has a decidedly different vibe.
A surprise ending proves welcome and endearing for the little one.
The lovely and very lively artwork was 'collaged using textured color papers, with finer details rendered digitally'. Color choice is very appealing, and the action-filled spreads are sure to hold attention and provide much information about this exuberant family get-together. The characters exude happiness at being together and sharing the potluck dinner devoured by all. Constant changes in perspective are used effectively, allowing readers to take in all of the action.
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