School Library Journal Review

Gr 2 Up--Written as a response to a lack of healthy cookbook options for kids, this volume describes its audience as "toddler to teenager," encouraging plant-based cooking and eating from an early age. It includes tips and resources on picky eating, information on whole-food plant-based diets, ingredient information, and cooking basics. The recipes are divided into sections by meal and are presented beautifully, with a full-page photograph and clear directives. Additional photos and notes, including allergy suggestions, dietary accommodations, and tips are provided when necessary. Supplemental sections provide in-depth instructions on topics, such as "How to Plan and Pack a Healthy Lunch." These recipes introduce readers to new plant-based ingredients and adaptations of processed food staples like a Box Mac 'n' Cheese. The book concludes with sample menus and a QR code for printable activity sheets. While the introduction to plant-based eating and whole foods is commendable, the book can border on preachy, at times villifying processed foods. Because food can be a sensitive topic, this may detract from readers' enjoyment of the book. VERDICT Though the recipes and aesthetics are impressive, the tone of this cookbook is not always kid-friendly.