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(2)
K-3
Illustrated by
Gianna Ruggiero.
Young Pipo is convinced that pizza is the best and, determined to scientifically prove its superiority, sets off on a culinary reconnaissance mission through her culturally diverse neighborhood. Thanks to the generosity of her neighbors, Pipo gathers plenty of data as she experiences new dishes: bibimbap, tagine, red beans and rice, dumplings. Each new food is delicious and provides an opportunity to learn a bit about her neighbors' cultural traditions and personal stories; however, Pipo concludes that pizza is still the best. Baffled by others' (including her weary-of-pizza parents) inability to see its preeminence, she seeks the guidance of shopkeeper Mr. Gonzales, who tells her that "pizza is the best, but it's not the only best." The vibrant and busy illustrations--a blend of spot art, single pages, and double-page spreads--deliver a balance of whimsy and realism to complement the energetic text. Back matter includes a simple recipe for "Pipo's Pizza" and a reminder that "even imperfect pizza is still pizza, and pizza is always delicious." Pair with other such community- and culinary-focused titles as Thank You, Omu! (rev. 11/18), ¡Vamos!: Let's Go Eat (rev. 3/20), and Our Little Kitchen (rev. 11/20).
Reviewer: Patrick Gall
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
March, 2021