Soul food has a long and storied history, originating from the enslavement of Black people in the Deep South of the United States, and as the identity of the African American community galvanized and evolved over time, soul food — with its delectable offerings of fried fish, pork, beans, rice, and greens — became a form of cultural culinary expression. To recognize National Soul Food Month, we’ve gathered seven books for children that celebrate both the history of soul food and its modern joys: how it represents the African American identity, brings communities and families together, and tastes utterly delicious while doing so.
Black-Eyed Peas and Hoghead Cheese: A Story of Food, Family, and Freedom by Glenda Armand, Illustrated by Steffi Walthall
Understanding the significance of soul food is about far more than appreciating its flavors. As Frances helps her grandmother prepare the jambalaya, black-eyed peas, and turnip greens for their family’s New Year’s Eve celebration, Grandma tells her the story behind each dish and how it relates to the history of Black Americans. From the days of creating meals with homegrown gardens and the “scraps” of White kitchens, Grandma informs Frances (and the reader) of how soul food was informed by the African American experience, past and present, and how it has become a keystone of their family traditions. For those looking for a compelling lesson in the cultural importance of soul food, this title should be your first stop.
Cooking Up Change: Grandma’s Recipes from a Year in Black History by Michael Platt, Illustrated by Alleanna Harris
A practical guide aimed at middle-grade readers, this historical cookbook pairs some scrumptious recipes from the kitchen of the author’s grandmother, Grandma Sarah, with important moments and observances in African American history. While whipping up treats like molasses cookies, sweet potato pie, and hibiscus punch, readers can learn about history-making icons, such as Robert Smalls and the first Memorial Day, how Mary McLeod Bethune and Nannie Helen Burroughs fought to improve working conditions for Black women, and why Barbara-Rose Collins fought for Juneteenth to be recognized as a federal holiday.
Fish Fry Friday by Winsome Bingham, Illustrated by C. G. Esperanza
Fresh off their work on two of the most celebrated picture books from last year — The Table and My Daddy Is a Cowboy — Bingham and Esperanza reunite with this follow-up to their previous collab, Soul Food Sunday. Waking up before the sun, a child and their grandmother head to the pier, where they are warmly welcomed by the other fishermen and women. Granny soon proves why she is such a local hero, reeling in big catches while helping to hone her grandchild’s skills. Afterwards, a fish fry piled high with hushpuppies, grits, and delicious filets sends the day off with a bang. Engaging text and eye-catching illustrations make this a feast for the eyes and ears and may leave readers with rumbly tummies.
Ruby’s Reunion Day Dinner by Angela Dalton, Illustrated by Jestenia Southerland
Every year, Ruby’s family gathers for a reunion dinner filled with laughter, love, and plenty of soul food. Everyone makes their own “signature dish,” and this year, Ruby wants to make one of her own. However, she can’t seem to find the inspiration for how she can contribute to the meal, and everyone else is too busy preparing their own dishes to help her. When Auntie Billie expresses doubt that Ruby is big enough to help in the kitchen, she is discouraged… until she spies a lemon tree and comes up with a perfectly refreshing addition to everyone’s meal. This is a sweet tale that celebrates soul food and family while encouraging children who are ready to take on big-kid responsibilities.
Nana’s New Soul Food by Will Power, Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie
The young narrator of this title is a fan of food — all kinds! His Nana loves food too, especially the soul food she grew up on and that she loves to cook. However, Nana’s doctor has restricted her diet for her health, and she can’t eat all the same food she used to, leading the little boy to ponder: Is there such a thing as vegan soul food? Setting off on a neighborhood expedition to find delicious recipes that his Nana can safely eat, the boy discovers that eating for one’s health doesn’t have to mean giving up the flavors they love, and — with help from Momma — prepares a meal just for his Nana. Dietary restrictions can be tough when it comes to enjoying cultural staples, so this endearing story of finding food alternatives is just right for those facing the same issues.
Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley
A renowned chef known for championing farm-to-table meals and Southern regional cuisine long before either became trendy, Edna Lewis was known for bringing soul food to national attention at a time when female chefs, especially Black female chefs, were few and far between. Embracing the natural elements and folk recipes that were Edna’s inspiration, this title follows her girlhood days of harvesting fresh ingredients with family and using them to create apple butter, corn pudding, strawberry shortcake, and, of course, apple pies. A marvelous celebration of an underappreciated culinary icon, this title also offers five of Edna’s recipes that young readers can try for themselves.
The Juneteenth Cookbook: Recipes and Activities for Kids and Families to Celebrate by Alliah L. Agostini with Taffy Elrod, Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud
While it was only declared a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has been celebrated by the African American community for over 150 years. Told from the perspective of little Alliah — an adorable kid version of author Agostini — readers can learn about the history of Juneteenth while cooking up recipes like Frances Price’s calico potato salad, corn muffins with hot honey butter, and the mouth-watering “Mac ’n’ Please.” Also on offer are activities and crafts to make any Juneteenth celebration brighter, recommendations for virtual “field trips” to museums and historic locations, and even a crash course in how to make the perfect cookout playlist. A delightful and insightful compendium of traditions, family and community bonding, and tasty recipes, this title would be a welcome addition to any kitchen library.
We hope that you and your young readers check out these deliciously awesome books about soul food, and that they inspire you to try some of these dishes rich with history and culture. Happy reading (and eating)!
Want to hear more from Alliah L. Agostini, author of The Juneteenth Cookbook? Check out our exclusive interview with her and four other creators who are dedicated to creating quality representation in children’s books.
To see all of our recommendations for all mini bookworms, check out our Bookshop bookshelf.
