#blogbookaday: Thank You, Omu!

Summary:

“Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu’s delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself?

Debut author-illustrator Oge Mora brings to life a heartwarming story of sharing and community in colorful cut-paper designs as luscious as Omu’s stew, with an extra serving of love. An author’s note explains that “Omu” (pronounced AH-moo) means “queen” in the Igbo language of her parents, but growing up, she used it to mean “Grandma.” This book was inspired by the strong female role models in Oge Mora’s life.” (Taken from Goodreads)

Review:

Omu is making a delicious red stew for dinner and while it simmers away on the stove the neighborhood begins to visit looking for a taste. Omu gladly shares with everyone until dinner time when she realizes she gave away all her delicious stew. But a knock on the door reveals everyone she shared with – back to give. A beautiful story of sharing and community.

Personal Reaction:

I loved this story of an open door with a woman who is grandmother to the whole neighborhood – no matter who you are. I loved that in the end everyone came back to give back to Omu, to make sure she was taken care of and thanked for her kindness. This was an absolutely beautiful story and one of my favorites this year!

Title: Thank You, Omu!
Author: Oge Mora
Illustrator: Oge Mora
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: October 2, 2018

This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!