As part of our Story Books Cook series at Edison Center Branch Library, I'm thrilled to share a heartfelt book review that holds a special place in my heart: Saturday at the Food Pantry by Diane O'Neill, illustrated by Brizida Magro. This powerful children's book was thoughtfully selected by Chef Nicole, the founder of Black Girls Cook, who has been such a champion in uplifting young Black girls through food, literacy, and self-worth. Donate to Black Girls Cook here.
Global Flavors, Cooking Skills, and Life Lessons
Every month, I lead the culinary side of Story Books Cook cooking and literacy series at the Edison Center Branch Library, teaching primary-level Black girls in Miami about global flavors from the African diaspora, hands-on cooking skills, and life lessons through books that speak to their experiences. And this book? It spoke volumes.
Mrs. Kaneisha Clifford
But before we get into the book, I would like to introduce Mrs. Kaneisha Clifford. She brings over 18 years of educational experience to the Story Books Cook program series, leading the literacy component with passion and purpose.
A former founding Assistant Principal and recipient of the 2021 KIPP New Jersey Impact Award, Kaneshia has dedicated her career to empowering students and families across New York City, Newark, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. With degrees in Sociology, Teaching, and Divinity, she blends academic excellence with heartfelt mentorship as a Microschool leader, instructional coach, and mentor.
Kaneshia's love for literacy, cultural connection, and community shines through in every activity she designs-making stories like Saturday at the Food Pantry come alive for young readers.
The Review
When I read Saturday at the Food Pantry for the first time, it was emotional. It reminded me of my own journey as a single mom-navigating tight times, visiting food pantries, and later giving back by volunteering at some. It's a story that hits close to home for so many, yet it's rarely spoken about with such compassion and honesty in children's literature.
This book doesn't just talk about food insecurity-it humanizes it. The central message is profound: It's okay to ask for help. That lesson alone can shape a child's relationship with pride, empathy, and resilience. In the story, Caitlin and her mom find themselves in a difficult situation.
But rather than dwell in shame, they receive support and-what touched me the most-give back in their own way. Caitlin and her friend Molly create drawings to bring smiles to those waiting at the pantry. It's a beautiful reminder that even the smallest gestures, when done with love, are deeply impactful.
It's okay to ask for help.
The Connection
Cooking has always been my way of showing love-something I learned from my mom and grandma. Food brought our family together, even in the toughest times. This book reflects that same truth: that sharing a meal, giving kindness, and showing up for one another is one of the most powerful things we can do.
If you're a parent, educator, or community leader, I highly recommend adding Saturday at the Food Pantry to your reading list. It's a story that teaches compassion, community, gratitude, and the importance of service-lessons that will stick with a child for a lifetime and blossom as they grow.
Why Choose This Book:
- Written with empathy and care for families experiencing food insecurity
- Normalizes asking for help and receiving support
- Empowers young readers to give back in creative, age-appropriate ways
- Encourages discussions around dignity, kindness, and emotional intelligence
- Celebrates community and the joy of shared meals
Saturday at the Food Pantry is a heartfelt children’s book chosen by Chef Nicole of Black Girls Cook for the Story Books Cook series, where Chef Maika teaches young Black girls in Miami about cooking and culture. The story emphasizes the importance of accepting help, showing empathy, and giving back in small but meaningful ways. Deeply personal and resonant, the book mirrors Chef Maika’s own experiences with food insecurity and the belief that cooking and sharing meals are a powerful expression of love and community.
About the Program Series: Story Books Cook
Held once a month at the Miami Edison Library, our Story Books Cook series blends literacy, cooking, and culture to help young Black girls connect to their roots, build confidence in the kitchen, and learn life skills.
Through powerful books like Saturday at the Food Pantry, we spark conversations, hands-on cooking experiences, and activities that nurture the whole child-mind, heart, and stomach.
Pin, Share, and Read More:
Love this book review? Bookmark it, share it with a parent or educator, and explore more recommended reads in our Library.
Recommended Reads
- Empowering Young Black Girls Through Food
- Spicy Moroccan-Inspired Harissa Carrot Salad
- Cooking Classes
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Chef Maika Frederic
Chef and Educator
Haitian-American chef and educator Maika Frederic blends bold flavors with approachable recipes. With a background in both professional kitchens, classrooms, and children therapy as a trained chef, former teacher and technician she brings a thoughtful, inclusive touch to every dish. Through her platform, Just Maika Cooking, she shares diverse meals and practical tips to empower home cooks of all ages and levels.
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