Welcome to our Table
Book Details
Laura Mucha and Ed Smith
Laura Mucha and Ed Smith, illus. Harriet Lynas. London: Nosy Crow, hb, 978 1 83994 504 5, 2023, £14.99, 64pp.
Picture book, 4-10 years.
A vibrant celebration of different cultures worldwide
Welcome to Our Table is a bright and joyful book that unites cultures and dishes from around the world. From introducing different cutlery and food pronunciations to the dishes eaten globally, this book has it all. The factual text is delivered in a light, appropriate, and balanced tone that is engaging for both adults and children. Laura Mucha and Ed Smith’s knowledge and fascination with travel and cuisine combine to create a vibrant celebration of different cultures worldwide. This insightful picture book helps to normalise the differences in global cuisine and is a great way to introduce new and exciting dishes to a young child.
Mucha and Smith’s lively book is perfectly matched with Harriet Lynas’ illustrations, with which every child will identify. Cultural clothing, racial diversity, and disabilities are present in this book and all differences are united by a love for food. The colours are bright and vibrant, yet still realistic, making the illustrations look good enough to eat! The endpaper shares a snippet of the delights inside the book, revealing a variety of vegetables, herbs, pastries, and dining utensils. The direct and concise yet still engaging text is well placed with the illustrations, making this book a joy to read. This is a truly charming and delightful book to share.
Review by Rhiannon Jelley