What If Your Mom Made Raisin Buns? by Catherine Hogan Safer is a delightful children’s book that warms the heart with its endearing story and vibrant illustrations. Set in a cozy kitchen, the book takes young readers on a journey of imagination and familial love as they explore the idea of what it would be like if their own mom made their favorite treats. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1591875.What_if_your_mom_made_raisin_buns_
Catherine Hogan Safer, the talented author behind this heartwarming tale, brings a wealth of experience to her storytelling. As an award-winning author and educator, Safer has a deep understanding of children’s literature and the power of storytelling to inspire young minds. Her previous works, including Wild Pieces and Bishop’s Road, showcase her commitment to crafting engaging narratives that resonate with readers of all ages. Win a copy of What If Your Mom Made Raisin Buns in our Giveaway section.
A shout out to the amazing illustrator for this book, Hilda Rose, a resident of Prospect Bay, Nova Scotia who dedicates her days to graphic design and illustration projects from her cozy home studio. With a background in graphic design and years of experience in museums, she now pours her creativity into a diverse range of projects while pursuing her MEd. Hilda has contributed illustrations to multiple children’s books, including the delightful board books Baby’s Lullaby and Kisses, Kisses, Baby-O!
The story follows a young child who wonders about the magical possibilities of their mom baking raisin buns. With each turn of the page, readers are treated to whimsical scenarios where the aroma of freshly baked buns fills the air, transporting them to a world of joy and comfort. Through playful rhymes and engaging prose, Safer captures the imagination of children and adults alike, making it a perfect bedtime read or a cozy afternoon escape.
I asked the author if she had a favourite raisin bun recipe and she replied, “Haven’t made raisin buns in a very long time – since a baking disaster a few years ago. (Ha) My recipe probably came from “Fat Back and Molasses”, a Newfoundland cookbook that Breakwater released decades ago. (Now that’s a book!) Don’t know where my copy is. I do know that whatever recipe is used, there are never enough raisins, so one must add more. My illustrator did not know what a raisin bun is. I was shocked, but then, she is from Nova Scotia. We laughed.
The story came from silliness with my daughters when we wondered what it would look like to stick raisins to the wall and add legs. For some reason they don’t remember that. Hmmm. The thing I love about the book is reading to young kids in schools, libraries etc. We talk a lot about bugs and draw pictures of them – real or imagined. Children who say ick and yuck when I ask them if they like bugs tend to change their minds, a little. Fun.” I love Catherine’s wit and imagination!
So, I went scouting for a great and authentic Raisin Bun recipe and asked our dear friend Bonita’s Kitchen for a true Newfoundland version of this recipe. She didn’t disappoint – check it out in our Recipe section. https://www.bonitaskitchen.com/recipe/raisin-tea-buns-traditional-newfoundland/
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to celebrate the bond between a parent and child. Safer beautifully portrays the nurturing relationship between the child and their mom, highlighting the simple yet profound moments of love and care that define family life. The illustrations, rendered with warmth and charm, further enhance this theme, immersing readers in a world of love and laughter.
In What If Your Mom Made Raisin Buns? Catherine Hogan Safer invites readers on a journey of imagination and love that will leave them with a smile on their faces and warmth in their hearts. With its charming story and enchanting illustrations, this book is sure to become a beloved favorite for families everywhere.
Contents and images used with permission by Breakwater Books. https://breakwaterbooks.com/collections/childrens-and-young-adult/products/what-if-your-mom-made-raisin-buns
