An ALA Notable Book
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2025
Description
Four starred reviews!
From James Beard Award–winning chef Alexander Smalls, New York Times bestselling author Denene Millner, and award-winning illustrator Frank Morrison comes a “vibrant visual narrative” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) of family, traditions, and the little moments shared at the dinner table that make all the difference.
There is nothing young Alexander looks forward to more than Sunday Dinner, the special time after church when the whole family gathers dressed in their Sunday best and ready to share in the best meal of the week.
For the first time, it’s up to Alexander to contribute a dish for the table, something warm and satisfying, with just the right amount of sweetness—something that the whole family will love and, most of all, will make his dad proud. It’s time for Alexander to spread that Sunday joy!
Reviews
★ "This stunning picture book deserves a spot in all collections serving young readers. Hand to young chefs and anyone with a sweet tooth."
★ "For an excellent example of #BlackBoyJoy, look to this sweet celebration of food and familial love from renowned chef Smalls and his cocreators. Warmth and community are exuded in Morrison's oil paintings of a young Smalls and his extended family filling the kitchen on Saturday night as they prepare for their weekly feast."
★"Smalls and Millner’s pitch-perfect dialogue imbues the various characters with life. Relying on his signature oil paintings, Morrison adds energy and verve....The joy of cooking—and family—brought to brilliant life."