"I don't eat vegetables," Oliver told Grandpa. "I only eat french fries." ~Oliver, the picky eater, in Oliver's Vegetables, by Vivian French (author) and Allison Bartlett (illustrator).
Tell that to someone who tends a very large garden.
This grandpa is a very clever man indeed. Since Oliver was spending the week with him, he decided to let him have his French fries. That is, if Oliver could find potatoes in the garden! Until then, he would have to try something else he found, without moaning and groaning.
Little does Oliver know, potatoes aren't so easy to find in a large garden. And so...
When he can't find them on Monday, he ends up trying carrots.
On Tuesday, he wonders if they're hiding amongst the spinach leaves. He ends up trying spinach, and liking it.
On Wednesday, Oliver thinks he's found potatoes in the rhubarb leaves. Likes that, too...
On Thursday, he discovers cabbage, and says it's "very, very good."
On Friday, he pulls up some leaves, only to find beets. He likes them too.
On Saturday, Oliver tries pea soup, and finds it "delicious."
And finally, on Sunday, the only thing left is potatoes. And so he gets his fries.
Not only that, but he sees how French fries are made, and even helps scrub the potatoes!
Cute story, huh?
This children's book could spark a conversation about the importance of eating all the colors of the rainbow, and children might even want to plant some seeds or cook something from scratch.
If you're thinking it's a little unrealistic that Oliver would actually like every single vegetable he tried, I would agree. Although, homegrown vegetables are certainly more tasty and nutritious than store bought ones! And it makes sense that children would be more apt to try something that's literally been brought to life right in front of their very own eyes. Nature has a special kind of magic, and can inspire people of all ages.
I feel the same way about picture books. Like nature, they can take us to places we never thought we'd ever visit in our lifetimes. And we can take those trips with just about anyone else who wants to join us. The only tool we need is a library card.
When you stop and think about it, healthy eating is a lot like well-rounded reading. To learn and grow, we need to think way beyond the French fries.
You can find part 4 here.
You may have missed these related posts:
- Book to Garden Connections (from 2009 - will expand this year)