Yoko

Author: Rosemary Wells

First line: “What would you like for lunch today, my little cherry blossom?” asked Yoko’s mother.

Why you should read this book: Japanese-American girl-cat Yoko loves the traditional foods prepared by her mother, but her classmates turn their nose up at raw fish and seaweed packed in a bento box. Her intuitive teacher, Mrs. Jenkins, comes to the rescue with an International Food Festival where every child is required to try everything. Although love of sushi cannot be taught to every elementary child in a single day, Yoko begins to find acceptance with one open-minded classmate, and readers can acclimate to the possibility that new foods are good foods.

Why you shouldn’t read this book: You’re the one responsible for the government warning against raw seafood on restaurant menus.