28 Feb Review: Sundays are for Feasts
Sundays are for Feasts
Written by: Leila Boukarim
Illustrated by: Ruaida Mannaa
Groundwood Books, 2025
ISBN: 9781773069074 (hardcover)
9781773069081 (EPUB)
$21.99 CAD (hardcover)
$16.99 CAD (EPUB)
36 pages
Ages: 3 to 6 years old
Review by: Cassandra Ricafort
Today is Sunday, and Sundays are for feasts! Excited, Yasmine offers to help her family prepare. Unexpectedly, Yasmine is tasked to help make the hummus, which she has never made before. Daunted by the task given to her, Yasmine worries she will mess it up and that her finicky Ammou Farouk will hate it. She has seen her Baba make it before… perhaps she can recreate it? This adorably illustrated picture book is relatable, as we have all faced tasks that have daunted us at one point in our lives. Seeing Yasmine struggle with uncertainty and self-doubt is something anyone can empathize with. This story could serve as a tool for children who suffer from performance anxiety, as it ends with a message that what matters is that we try our best and not focus on what could go wrong, and that our efforts are recognized, whether we are successful or not. A glossary of terms and a recipe for hummus for all to enjoy are included at the end of the story. Sundays are for Feasts is perfect for any home, school or public children’s library.