I was excited to see a book of fiction by the renowned chef Jamie Oliver. There are pieces of a good, environmentally conscious story in here, which I always appreciate. It's also scattered with some fantastic illustrations. And there were diverse characters, with some disability representation (dyslexia), which was great to see.
But... As much as I wanted to love this book, it just didn't do it for me. It felt scattered and lacked cohesion—a bit all over the place. It's almost like there are 3 separate stories that have been awkwardly patchworked together.
And the writing, itself, felt a bit remedial—basic, simple. Whereas most middle grade books have a general appeal, regardless of reader age, the diction in this book is more appropriate for elementary readers, or the youngest of the middle grade readers.
Note: I received this book as an ARC. It is scheduled to be released Nov 14, 2023.
3 stars
Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade
Read it. Do it.
Finished the book and want even more enrichment? Try your hand at one of the activities mentioned within:
- Cook one of the many items listed in the book.
- Do something to help the environment.
- Go on a woodland adventure.
- Help a neighbor.
- Cook one of the recipes from the back of the book.
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