JOLLOF DAY

“Jollof Day is my day…and IT starts early.”

On August 22—World Jollof Day—a father and child (who narrates) rise early to prepare a pot of the much-loved West African rice- and tomato-based dish. Together they scrub, chop, blitz, and stir their way through the ingredients for gravy. Finally, they add the contents of the Jar, which contains “a secret and special mix, bits of leaves, peppers, and powders.” As Daddy notes, “It’s our family’s magic.” Though the young narrator has trouble balancing the pots and pans, Daddy lets the little one help out every step of the way, and the child’s pride is apparent. The blue and purple illustrations are overtaken by a rich golden orange that swirls throughout the house, beckoning Mummy and baby brother to wake and prepare for the feast. Watching the family eating small puffs of jollof with their hands, the child marvels at everyone eating “JUST… / Like / Me.” The characters present Black, though their nationality isn’t mentioned. Mensah’s bouncy text makes lovely use of alliteration and vocabulary; though bold and readable, the type is fairly small and often feels lost against the vibrant, billowing illustrations and illustrated text that dances across the page. Still, it’s a minor point; this one will make an ideal read-aloud any day of the year. The backmatter includes a description of jollof rice, information on Jollof Day, and a recipe.

Downright delicious.