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“An enlightening celebration of family heritage and history.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“[A] colorful, delectable picture book about heritage and togetherness.”

—Foreword Reviews

“A multicultural celebration of food and family.”

—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Grandma, Cho Cho and Me

Written by Morgan Christie
Illustrated by Paulica Santos
Published by Groundwood Books

Some families gather for big dinners, but in my house we feast at breakfast! As Grandma and I cook our favorite Jamaican dishes, I learn why that is.

The girl in this story and her grandmother are making breakfast for the whole family! Jamaican favorites like ackee and saltfish, fried dumplings and delicious cho cho are on the menu today. As they chop and stir, and the food simmers and sizzles, the girl has one big question for Grandma — why does their family eat such BIG breakfasts?

Through the process of cooking traditional foods, and through Grandma’s stories of life in Jamaica before their family emigrated to Canada, the girl learns more about the historical, economic and social reasons for their big breakfasts — and she explores her culture as someone not born in Jamaica, but still connected to the island.

Grandma, Cho Cho and Me is inspired by the author’s childhood experiences born to Jamaican migrant parents, and beautifully illustrated by Paulica Santos. Memories of tropical landscapes, garden—fresh greens and mouthwatering meals overflow in Paulica Santos’s lush, mixed—media illustrations.

Primary ISBN: 9781773067513
Publication Date: March 2026
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Canada

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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