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“Iloh’s methodically paced story is as warm and flavorful as the titular soup. Inspired by their younger sibling, they offer a loving portrait of a child on the autistic spectrum who’s supported by family members eager to meet him where he is . . . [Jackson’s] digital illustrations rely on multiple angles, photorealistic depictions of the foods, and masterful use of light and shadow—all of which adds up to both an utterly immersive culinary experience and a tale of familial bonding at its best.”

—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

“Iloh’s rhythmic repetition captures the child’s hesitation and interest, while Jackson’s lush digital illustrations fill the pages with the family kitchen’s warmth. It’s a heartfelt story that smartly twines familiar comforts with the joy of learning something new.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

Emeka, Eat Egusi!

Written by Candice Iloh
Illustrated by Bea Jackson
Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers

From award-winning author Candice Iloh and New York Times illustrator Bea Jackson comes a “jovial…heartfelt” picture book celebration of traditional Nigerian home cooking and the surprising joys of trying new things, from the perspective of a boy on the autism spectrum.

Emeka’s favorite food is jollof rice. He eats it every day. “Emeka, come and try this egusi!” Mama and Papa urge. But orange rice is what Emeka knows. He doesn’t want anything different.

Then one day, Emeka comes home from school to find Mama in the kitchen waiting for him to help her cook egusi. One by one, new things go into the pot. There are so many colors and smells and sounds! And Emeka is a great helper. Could it be that trying something new might actually be…good?

Primary ISBN: 9781665937610
Publication Date: March 2026
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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