Emeka, Eat Egusi!

Iloh (Salt the Water), making their picture book debut, and Jackson (Summer Is Here) serve up a jovial story about a child who resists trying a new food. Young Emeka is accustomed to his days’ flow: being picked up from school by brother Ebuka, choosing an orange object from ingredients on the kitchen counter, and enjoying jollof rice for dinner. Though his family encourages him to try Mama’s egusi, he repeats, “Orange rice, please” until Mama gives in. One day, Mama invites Emeka into the kitchen to assist her (“Emeka beams. He knows that he’s a great helper”). There, he gathers pantry components, watches his mother add items to the pot, and becomes curious about the duo’s creation: “Mommy, what’s that?! he asks again and again.” And when Papa later asks, “Emeka, what are we doing tonight?!” the child’s proud reply—“WE ARE EATING EGUSI!”—rings with triumph. Iloh’s rhythmic repetition captures the child’s hesitation and interest, while Jackson’s lush digital illustrations fill the pages with the family kitchen’s warmth. It’s a heartfelt story that smartly twines familiar comforts with the joy of learning something new. An author’s note and recipe conclude. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Patricia Nelson, Marsal Lyon Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Lori Nowicki. Painted Words. (Mar.)