Gail Piernas-Davenport has enjoyed writing since she was in grade school. She used to go in her basement and write crazy stories and novels. She lives in Illinois. Marion Eldridge is a graduate of the Boston Museum School and Tufts University. She has illustrated numerous books and has taught illustration at the New Hampshire Institute of Art. She lives in Massachusetts.

"Bright, colorful illustrations portray Shanté's energy and determination to save her family tradition...this is a simple way to introduce young children to other cultures and traditions. The recipe for Grandma Louise's Hoppin' John provides a fun activity for families."--Kirkus Reviews

"In rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, this upbeat story celebrates family, community, and multiculturalism, highlighting an African-American family's New Year's food traditions, including 'lucky' black-eyed peas...The story, with abundant dialogue, is written in couplets, with all lines ending in a long 'e' sound, and the expressive art warmly portrays characters' interactions in bright, rich hues and lively detail."--Booklist

"The lighthearted rhyme presents various cultural food customs associated with the holiday. A look at New Year's traditions around the world and a recipe for Hoppin' John are appended."--School Library Journal

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company

Pub date: 2017-10-01

Length: 32 pages