"Mamaw's midnight kitchen is warm and light,
with blue tiles on the floor and cat plates on the wall.
Mamaw's morning kitchen is clean and bright,
with sausage sizzling in the skillet, blackberry
jam on toast, and tractors on cups.
My Papaw drinks his coffee with cream but no sugar,
and Daddy does too. My dad and his dad ... "
Have you been thinking of sharing holiday meals for the past month? It is one of the most anticipated events for a family, there is no doubt. Although these celebrations have been curtailed for almost two years, and might be again, just thinking about the fun times spent with families and food brings happy memories of times past. I thought this book might encourage readers and listeners to sit back, relax, and explore the many memories they have of similar times.
On a family road trip that leads to two very different kitchens, our young narrator shares her observations and opinions about visiting two sets of grandparents. Once a year, they head out to the West Virginia mountains to spend time with Mamaw and Papaw. It is a long trip, and it is late when they arrive. They are warmly welcomed with food before it is time for bed.
After spending three days enjoying the love, the food, and all that West Virginia has to offer, the family is on the road again. This time, they are headed south to Florida where they are welcomed by Abuela and Abuelo. They arrive just in time to partake of food with family and friends in Abuela's midnight kitchen.
"In Abuela's midnight kitchen,
white tiles feel cool
under my feet.
Aunts and cousins
and uncles and neighbors
talk over each other
above my head.
I crunch tostones
and scoop arroz
and slurp flan and fall asleep
at the table ... "
Their days are spent preparing food, learning new Spanish words, and doing their best to keep out of the sticky heat. Too soon, it is time to get back in the car and head for home ... tummies full of amazing food, and hearts full of love and memories. They arrrive in time for Mom and Dad to open their own midnight kitchen, filled with the warm and delicious smell of waffles. Time for bed ...
The story told is filled with heart. The pen-and-ink, colored pencil and markers are filled with the many details of their visits, and are rich with culture, love, and wonderful foods.
What stories do you have to tell?
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