Elspeth Lorraine

I met Stacy through a writing group and when she shared she had an early reader series I knew I had to review! 

Tana is a young girl who loves to cook and learn about her Choctaw culture. Her Dad, an unusually kind and thoughtful father, helps her in the kitchen by teaching her Choctaw words and Choctaw recipes. When her class at school has tryouts for a play, Tana discovers her friend Ana is scared to be on stage. Back at home Tana and her dad cook up a plan to help Ana. Dad says, “Food is nourishment for our bodies, but food can also comfort.” Tana decides to be a good listener and also comfort Ana with food.  When a strawberry smoothie isn’t the answer thanks to a strawberry allergy, Tana doesn’t give up. With the help of her family, she finds just the thing to cheer Ana on.

This is a lovely series about a girl who cares about others and enjoys cooking. 

Bits and Pieces: The illustrations were done digitally with bright engaging colors. This book is jam packed with extras. It’s got recipes, discussion questions, a reader’s guide AND a glossary of Choctaw and English words. And you can head over to Stacy’s website for free downloadable coloring pages. This is only one book in the series, there are three other Tana books to enjoy. All four would make a nice gift set for the young cook in your life. 

Not Sure About: Very cute series. Nothing not to like! 

Favorite Part(s): I liked that Tana didn’t try to help Ana face her fears or tell her that everything was going to be ok. She listened to her, encouraged her to recognize all her other talents, and gave her some homemade goods. So… sign me up to be Tana’s friend! Also, literally everyone in the book was wearing the coolest, most amazing outfits. You all know I love an overall moment, but bright pink overalls! I didn’t immediately start shopping for a pair for myself. Except maybe a little. I did.

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BIG NEWS from me: I'm officially a published audiobook narrator! You can check out my new website page HERE

My first book is "Pregnancy for First Time Moms Simplified" By Rachel Ortega