Picture Book Pick: When Alexander Graced the Table

 

When Alexander Graced the Table

by Alexander Smalls and Denene Millner

Illustrated by Frand Morrison 

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division

2025

40 pages

ISBN: 9781534488724

Gorgeous illustrations by Coretta Scott KIng Award winner Frank Morrison and a story based on James Beard Award winning chef Alexander Smalls own childhood make this book a must have for every library and child's book shelf. 

Alexander loves to help his mama in the kitchen, and Sunday dinner is a major production in their home. So big, in fact, they'd start planning and cooking on Saturday night. His mama includes his help in every dish: he picks peas and collards from the garden and lemons from the tree, he peels eggs for the potato salad and grates the cheese for mac and cheese. All of this is done with commitment and love. The entire family gathers on Sunday to share the bounty and joy. Even though the dinners are special and filled with love, his papa never seems impressed. 

Alexander wishes he could impress his father. One Saturday evening, his mother says 
Alexander can make a special dessert for Sunday dinner. He is so proud, and gets right to work, making lemon icebox pie, his father's favorite. Mama puts it on a fancy cake stand and Alexander delivers it to the table. Papa says the pie looks great, and Alexander holds his breath, hoping his father will love the taste. His father takes a bite and is impressed. Alexander beams with pride, and the memory of his father trying his pie and loving it will stay with him forever.

Highly recommended ages 3 and up. When 
Alexander Graced the Table will likely be a popular pick in awards this award season.