Sun in My Tummy: How the food we eat gives us energy from the sun

The cooking of a healthy breakfast is transformed into a conversation about energy, plant growth, and the sun's light nourishment in "Sun in My Tummy." Author Laura Alary uses accessible language and mixed-media illustrations to explore the concepts of matter and energy, and how the sun's light becomes fuel for our bodies through the food we eat. "This book is as essential as sunshine," praised School Library Journal, while Quill & Quire starred it for its inviting illustrations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Pajama Press

The transformation of a healthy breakfast from a simple bonding experience between parents and children to a profound and captivating conversation about energy, plant growth, and the incredible ways in which the sun's light nourishes us all is truly remarkable.

This culinary journey begins with the sun, a radiant source of heat and light that showers upon the earth in tiny, energy-packed packets. It is the sun that sets the stage for this enchanting narrative, igniting the growth of sleepy seeds that transform into golden oats, blueberry patches that yield sweet sugar through the process of photosynthesis, and pastures where the sun's rays become grass, which in turn becomes cows and ultimately, milk.

Author Laura Alary skillfully weaves together a free verse narrative that breaks down complex scientific concepts into child-friendly, relatable pieces. Through her words, readers are invited to explore the wonders of matter and energy, and how the sun's light becomes a vital fuel for our bodies through the nourishment we receive from the food we eat.

Andrea Blinick's vibrant and captivating mixed-media illustrations bring this story to life, seamlessly transitioning readers from the cozy confines of the kitchen to the sprawling farm fields, and even into the vast expanse of the sky. Her illustrations evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity while also showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

A concluding Authors Note provides additional information about photosynthesis, a process that plays a central role in this narrative. It is a gentle and informative addition that will undoubtedly engage young readers and spark their curiosity about the world around them.

"Sun in My Tummy" is a truly essential book, akin to the sun itself, and its captivating STEM story is as absorbing as the very process of photosynthesis itself. This book has received widespread praise from both critics and readers alike, with School Library Journal awarding it a ★★★★ Starred Review, stating, "This book is as essential as sunshine; the absolutely beautiful STEM story is as absorbing as photosynthesis itself." Quill & Quire also praised the book, stating, "Toronto author Laura Alarys poetic rumination about how the sun nourishes us all offers food for thought. The sunny and bright mixed-media illustrations from Andrea Blinick are inviting."

In conclusion, "Sun in My Tummy" is a remarkable work that celebrates the wonders of the sun, food, and nature. Through its poetic narrative, captivating illustrations, and informative Author's Note, this book provides a valuable and accessible introduction to scientific concepts for young readers. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of nurturing curiosity and a love for learning in children.

Weight: 202g
Dimension: 252 x 231 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781772782820