There’s a special kind of joy in stories that make you feel something as universal as family gatherings, food, and cultural traditions — all wrapped up in colourful illustrations and tender storytelling. Sundays Are for Feasts by Leila Boukarim does precisely that, and it does so with an authenticity and warmth that resonates with readers of all ages, especially the young ones it was written for. Leila Boukarim
At its heart, Sundays Are for Feasts follows young Yasmine, who is spending the summer visiting her family in Lebanon. Every Sunday, the extended family gathers for a big lunch — a weekly tradition that brims with love, laughter, and delicious food. This particular Sunday, Yasmine is tasked with making the family’s beloved hummus — a seemingly simple dish with deep cultural significance. But as she quickly discovers, making hummus that satisfies even the most discerning relative is no easy feat. With questions about the right amount of garlic or the balance between lemon juice and vinegar, Yasmine’s hopes rise and fall as she tries to honour her family’s culinary expectations while adding her own touch.
One of the greatest pleasures of this book lies in how it brings readers into the kitchen with Yasmine. Through lively prose and lively scenes, Sundays Are for Feasts captures the sensory richness of cooking — from the rhythm of mashed chickpeas to the zing of fresh ingredients — in a way that’s both delightful and engaging for children. The story also thoughtfully includes a glossary of Arabic terms and even a recipe for hummus at the back, giving young readers both context and a hands-on experience they can recreate with adults. Speaking of hummus, you can make your own in our Recipe section.
Illustrator Ruaida Mannaa’s vibrant artwork is a standout feature. Her illustrations are bursting with colour and movement, effortlessly conveying the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of shared meals. Mannaa’s art enhances every page, from the joyful expressions around the family table to quiet moments of Yasmine’s concentration as she prepares the dish. The combination of expressive characters and rich detail invites readers to linger on each page and soak in the atmosphere of a traditional Lebanese Sunday feast. About — Ruaida Mannaa
What makes this book particularly remarkable is its universal theme married to a strong sense of cultural identity. While rooted in Lebanese tradition, the story’s central themes — family, food, community, and the desire to contribute something meaningful — are universally relatable. Children of all backgrounds can see a bit of themselves in Yasmine’s eagerness and nervousness, and many families will find echoes of their own traditions in these pages.
The story gently encourages young readers to embrace their own cultural traditions and to take pride in adding personal touches to them. It’s a subtle and affirming message about belonging and identity — one that’s particularly impactful in today’s multicultural world. You can purchase a copy at Sundays Are for Feasts – House of Anansi Press or win it in our Giveaway section.
Sundays Are for Feasts is a heartwarming picture book that celebrates the power of food, family, and tradition. It’s a book that invites conversation between adults and children — whether discussed at storytime or paired with a real-life cooking session. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant cultural stories, food-centered narratives, or simply delightful children’s literature, this title is one that will nourish the heart as much as Yasmine’s hummus feeds the body.
Contents and images used with permission by House of Anansi Press and Groundwood Books. Sundays Are for Feasts – House of Anansi Press