Okra Stew
on Goodreads (138)
What’s inside...
This rhythmic, joyous picture book from Natalie Daise, the co-star of the hit Nickelodeon show 'Gullah Gullah Island,' celebrates a special day of father-son cooking, and serves up a love letter to food, family, Gullah Geechee culture, and tradition—and includes the author's own recipe! For fans of Fry Bread, My Papi Has a Motorcycle, and Thank You, Omu! Papa has something special planned for tonight’s family dinner—and Bobo can’t wait! Excited to learn how to make okra stew like his ancestors, Bobo helps Papa pick veggies from the garden, catch shrimp from the creek, rain down rice in the pot, simmer the stew, and even make a tasty side of cornbread. When the stew begins to bubble and pop, Bobo and his family gather around for a mouthwatering feast.
Discussion points
How did the characters in the book show kindness to each other?
What did you learn about sharing and cooperation from the story?
How do you think the characters felt when they worked together to make the okra stew?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone in your family or a friend? How did that make you feel?
Why do you think it's important to work together, like the characters did in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about okra or stews to activate prior knowledge.
Pause at key moments to allow your child to predict what might happen next, fostering their analytical skills.
Emphasize the expressions and emotions of the characters to enhance understanding of the social cues in the book.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s real-life experiences of cooperation or cooking with family.
Encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite part of the book, which aids in comprehension and retention.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: In 'Okra Stew,' diverse characters come together to share a meal, showcasing the importance of accepting and celebrating different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the uniqueness of their peers and interact inclusively at school or in their communities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Traditions
Explanation: The story revolves around a family coming together to cook a traditional dish, highlighting the role traditions play in bonding and heritage preservation.
Real-World Application: Kids can participate in or even help preserve family traditions, understanding their cultural significance and fostering familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Value of Cooperation
Explanation: Characters in the book work together to prepare the stew, teaching the importance of teamwork and helping each other.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital as children work on group projects in school or collaborate in team sports, learning that teamwork often leads to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Healthy Eating Habits
Explanation: 'Okra Stew' focuses on cooking a nutritious meal, promoting the benefits of eating healthy foods.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore cooking and the incorporation of vegetables in their diet, leading to healthier lifestyle choices.