Garlic-Onion-Beet-Spinach-Mango-Carrot-Grapefruit Juice! by Nathalie VanBalen just might be one of the quirkiest books we have had land on our desks this year. The whimsical children’s story, packed with unobtrusive eco-friendly messages, focuses on a communal living household comprised of two enthusiastic Vikings (Askel and Krog), Thora (the brains of the group) and two birds — Zwee and Geep.
Askel and Krog, atypical Vikings (they don’t have a ship, they don’t go to battle and they aren’t particularly hairy…) become so enthralled with their new juicer that they start wanting to juice everything in sight – including the shells of some sweet little yellow spotted snails.
The story, illustrated via multi-media images, cloth dolls and graphics, explores questions of healthy eating, food sustainability and ethical eating with a fun, light tone that will appeal to both children and parents alike.
The question of consuming sentient beings is resolved when Askel and Krog cook up a vegan feast that includes a large salad and plenty of their favourite juice with the snails as the guests of honour – with their shells intact.
Garlic-Onion-Beet-Spinach-Mango-Carrot-Grapefruit Juice! encourages families to think about their food choices including the need to eat ethically. Nathalie VanBalen's book will particularly resonate with vegetarian or vegan households that are looking for children’s books that represent their lifestyle and belief system.
Visit: www.ThoraThinks.com
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