"We are making dirt. I will tell you
my favorite dirt recipe: a little of this,
a little of that, and compost. It's the
most nutritious and delicious dirt.
I'm sorry but the dirt is not for
your sandwich."
What a unique way to help kids understand composting and its many benefits. Narrated by a worm, we quickly learn that he is quite confident in his ability to make a sandwich for the reader, all by himself. He recognizes his shortcomings: he's certainly little and has no hands. He does, however, have tenacity.
In the background, we watch a compost bin being built and filled with mounds of 'delicious' garbage. Readers are assured it's not for their sandwich, and contains all types of garbage. The worm is not picky about that. A full spread shows captioned plant items being poured on top of what is already there. No pepperoni. Many of his friends join him in the compost, all munching and pooping to make the most nutritious compost. Now, it can be added to garden soil.
It's still not ready for sandwich making. And then, a seed is planted which might eventually help in the that process. Rain and time are needed for growth ... it is a long, long wait.
"Maybe I can't make a sandwich.
Maybe I should try again when I'm bigger."
Can it be that all the waiting was worth it? That tomato, grown in compost-rich soil, is just what's needed to make the most delicious tomato sandwich! The young gardener who makes it, eats it, and then disposes of the leftover scraps brings the story to a satisfying end, and full circle.
Engaging artwork, done with watercolor, gouache, colored pencil and charcoal, adds to the humor, the learning, and the value of this clever story. Two pages of further information notes the what, how, and why of composting for those interested in starting a compost bin in their backyard.
