"I can scoop my cereal with a spoon.
Swoop!
But sometimes I eat with my hands.
I can eat my broccoli with a fork.
But sometimes I eat with my hands."
If you have ever watched a little one choose fingers over utensils when eating, you will know the delight they feel with the tactile sensations that action brings. In his debut picture book, Kid Haile is truly aware of the joy it brings, and is able to show that to his young readers. In an author's note following, he explains that, as a child, he felt discomfort with the smells, appearance and even the taste of foods. While staying at home with his daughter, he noticed she had some of those same food issues.
That inspired him to write this book for others who might feel the same. In telling and warm pencil and watercolor illustrations, he explores food with Feven, a little girl who loves food and can handle it all by herself. Her younger brother is not so capable yet. I love the spread that finds Feven sporting an aviator hat with planes flying close by. Who hasn't resorted to that trick to encourage a child to eat?
Expressive faces (even on broccoli and a cheese-loving mouse) will have little ones taking note. When Nana arrives for dinner, Feven is reminded to wash her hands before their meal. Nana has made injera, an Ethiopian and Eritrean flatbread, used for scooping up 'meat and vegan sauces' and eating with the hands. YUM!
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