The Spice Box
What’s inside...
A father and son share family stories through a spice box, handed down from generation to generation, in this tender picturebook. Rishi's grandma arrives from India today, and he longs to cook curry alongside his Dad using the delicious flavors from his family's spice box. But this spice box is more than just fragrant spices in shades of gold and ruby. This spice box holds memories that are passed down from one generation to the next, as each found their place in this wide world. When Rishi drops the box that holds the family's heart and history, he draws courage and meaning from their treasured past to set things right.
Discussion points
What spices did you find most interesting in the book, and why do you think they are important?
How do the characters in 'The Spice Box' use spices to connect with their culture and family?
If you could create a dish using any of the spices from the book, what would it be and who would you share it with?
What feelings did you experience when reading about the different spices and their stories?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing 'The Spice Box', incorporate sensory experiences by involving actual spices. Smell or taste the spices mentioned in the story to make the reading experience more engaging and memorable.
Relate the spices and their uses to your family’s cooking traditions to personalize the story and foster connections between your child’s reading and everyday life.
Encourage your child to describe their feelings and thoughts about the story’s events and characters to deepen their comprehension and empathy skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: In 'The Spice Box', children explore the rich traditions of Indian spices through the eyes of the protagonist. The story vividly portrays the heritage and customs associated with Indian cooking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and traditions, promoting inclusivity and broadening their worldview.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The narrative revolves around a young girl learning about spices from her grandmother, emphasizing the bond between generations.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the value of spending time with family members and learning from their experiences, which strengthens family ties.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The protagonist's journey of discovering spices serves as a metaphor for curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Sensory Exploration
Explanation: The book uses the spices as a way to engage the reader’s senses, describing the colors, textures, and smells vividly.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their senses to explore and understand their environment, which is critical in their cognitive development.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The colorful illustrations and imaginative storytelling spark creativity in young readers.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to express themselves creatively, whether through art, cooking, or storytelling, enhancing their creative thinking skills.