The Greatest Table

by Michael J. Rosen, Becca Stadtlander (Illustrator)

Overview

In a world of bountiful food yet increasing food insecurity, we are called to remember that all creatures have a place—and may be fed sustainably—at the greatest, communal table offered by our planet.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781568463032
Publisher:	The Creative Company
Publication date:	08/06/2019
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	8.40(w) x 10.60(h) x 0.50(d)
Lexile:	NC1010L (what's this?)
Age Range:	6 - 8 Years

About the Author

Michael J. Rosen is the author and editor of picture books, poetry, novels, cookbooks, and anthologies to benefit animal-welfare and childhood-hunger efforts. He served on the board of directors for Share Our Strength, a national organization working to end childhood hunger in the United States.

Becca Stadtlander is an illustrator and fine artist, inspired by the beauty of everyday objects, the comforts of home, and the lush colors and landscapes of far-off places. She lives and works in her hometown of Covington, Kentucky.

Editorial Reviews

11/01/2019

Gr 2–5—This picture book is an illustrated poem presenting the idea that food connects everyone on the planet, and that there is plenty for all. "The greatest table isn't set / inside a single home— / oh no, it spans the continents, / and no one eats alone." It goes on to describe the table, picnic bench, tray, beach blanket as a spot "where all of us can help ourselves, / and all of us are fed, / and no one has been turned away / with only rice or bread." While the planet is indeed full of enough resources to end hunger, the book never addresses the unequal distribution of those resources and makes it seem as though people can just choose to take a seat at this "uncommon table." Unfortunately, the idealistic metaphor may be lost on young children, particularly those who may experience actual food insecurity, and thus this title should be reserved for adult use. Stadtlander's bright and homey gouache paintings are extremely appealing, and do a nice job with diversity as far as ethnicity, region, and cuisine; however, everyone shown seems to be uniformly thin and able-bodied. The depictions of meals are truly mouthwatering and adroitly capture the camaraderie of sharing a meal with others. VERDICT Best intentions aside, this title never adds up to more than the sum of its parts, making it a nonessential purchase for libraries serving children.—Anna Haase Krueger, Ramsey County Library, MN

School Library Journal