Just So Stories

Harper Collins Australia

November 2023

• ISBN: 9781400244225
• ISBN 10: 1400244226
• Imprint: Thomas Nelson US
• RRP: $24.99

Earlier this year, I spent a day learning to make Tibetan momos – dumplings. And not only was it fun, but it made me think about dumplings in general, and how many different cultures have these delicious little parcels of yumminess in their culinary catalogue. Of course, they are not all exactly the same, nor do they have identical ingredients but the essential idea of this little food item stretches from one side of the world to the other. Read more about dumplings of the world here, and check out these examples:

Japan – Gyoza. Japanese gyoza is a close relative to Chinese dumplings, with a smaller size and more elongated shape. ...

Korea – Mandu. …

Nepal – Momo. …

Italy – Filled Pasta. …

Russia – Pelmeni. …

Poland – Pierogi. …

Uzbekistan – Manti. ...

Israel – Kreplach

Author Linda Meeker has a high profile TikTok and Insta following, mostly focused on her little boy Grey, and has translated that into this, her second book, to explore some lovely themes of grandparent/child relationships, other cultures, traditions and family history, making new memories and the expression of love in different ways. The illustrations from Sandra Eide, have a gentle feel which adds to the overall family warmth vibe of the narrative.

Grey learns to make traditional Vietnamese dumplings – Bánh Lọc – with his grandmother, and readers can learn some Vietnamese words, plus how to make Grandma’s famous fish sauce (might try that out myself actually!). It is a quite simple story but one which will greatly appeal to your Smalls, who I am sure will love to share similar stories.

I can also see this being a great addition to events such as Mother Tongue Day. Refugees Week or Harmony Day, to celebrate multiculturalism in our communities. And even if your kiddos can’t make real dumplings, I think playdough versions would be quite fun as a follow-up activity.

The whole book and the thought of delicious dumplings has now made me quite hungry. I think they will definitely be on our menu this week and we can try out our dumpling maker gadget!! Why not add some home-made dumplings to your menu as well? They really are quite easy to make, although there is a bit of work in preparation/chopping. Enjoy!

Recommended for small hungry humans from around Prep upwards.