Sour cherries

Picking cherries helps a child preserve familial bonds. An Afghan family spends a summer day gathering sour cherries. The family, including the young narrator, snacks on the ruby-red fruit while preparing to cook some of their favorite dishes. First, they wash the cherries in a nearby stream and then divide them into three parts for jam, dinner, and tea. Papa stokes an open wood fire as the children help "spice the rice" and "salt the stew." Drinking tea as the food cooks, the protagonist's mother reminisces about learning these recipes from her own mother, whom the children call Bibi. The narrator hopes to visit her in her home, but "Wars hold places locked away." Though the child is far away from loved ones and familial roots, re-creating cherished recipes helps to foster a sense of connection. While the rhyming text is at times a bit clunky, overall this is a heartwarming celebration of family and the joys of shared traditions. Using bold reds, blues, and yellows, the bright artwork depicts a warm, cheery day. Close-ups of pots of cherries and colorful rice are rich in detail, while images of interconnected underground tree roots are a vivid illustration of the idea that generations can remain connected across time and borders. Azaad concludes with an author's note about his own experiences as a refugee and includes a recipe for sour cherry tea. A lovely tribute to family and the continuity of rituals that bind generations together. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.