Gr. 2-3
Books and Cooks
This curriculum introduces youngsters to different religions through food. The stories about special holidays and foods and cooking give children a “taste” of different cultures around the world.
Everyone Cooks Rice
From Haiti to Viet Nam, everybody cooks rice. This story connects cultures from around the world in one neighborhood of the United States. Then make a tasty puffed rice treat.
John Murray Day
Hear the story of Universalist John Murray. Then cook a traditional dish that might have been eaten during his time–peas porridge.
Cora Cooks Pancit
Tells a sweet story of a mother and daughter cooking a traditional Filipino dish. Then, cook this noodle dish for a delicious meal.
On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
Learn about the Jewish New Year. Make couscous with 7 vegetables. Eat apples, challah and honey.
The Stranger’s Farewell
This story is set in Afghanistan and shares an important message about giving and receiving. Then make Bolani–a stuffed fried bread from the Middle East.
Is it Sukkot Yet?
Learn about the Jewish fall holiday Sukkot and make squash soup.
The Prayer of St. Francis
Learn about St. Francis of Assisi and his prayer. Enjoy a taste of Italy with DIY pasta salad.
The First Strawberries
This Cherokee story tells of how the first strawberries came to be. It’s moral–be kind and loving to each other. Then make strawberry wojapi and fry bread.
Story of Ganesha’s Sweet Tooth
This book introduces children to the Hindu god Ganesha, who has an elephant head. After the story, satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth with a yummy mango lassi and coconut ladoo.
One Grain of Rice:
In this Indian folktale a clever girl tricks an unjust ruler to help feed her people. Then make a delicious vegetable biryani rice dish to share.
A Gift for Abuelita
Learn about the Mexican/Catholic holiday Day of the Dead and make tasty sopapillas.
Mama Panya’s Pancakes
Share this Kenyan story of generosity and community. Then make savory pancakes using the recipe from the book.
The Magic Bean Trees
Hear this legend from Argentina explaining why the carob tree brings good luck, then make a tasty and healthy carob treat.
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message
Share a thanksgiving message from the Iroquois and then make Three Sisters Succotash.
Way too Many Latkes
Share a fanciful story about Hanukkah in Chelm, the fictional village of fools. Then make latkes–traditional potato pancakes prepared for the holiday.
Wintercake
Share a cute holiday story and make a microwave Wintercake.
Seven Candles for Kwanzaa
Share a story about the meaning of the African American holiday Kwanzaa, and make and eat collard greens.
The Story of 3 Wise Kings
Learn about Three Kings Day, celebrated in many Spanish speaking countries. Then make tortillas and tacos.
Coming in Spring:
Freedom Soup
Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie
Imbolc
Thundercakes
The Runaway Wok
Gator Gumbo
Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk
Wangari’s Trees of Peace
Seven Special Somethings
Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland
The Purim Book
Spring Equinox
Holi
The Lorax
Matzo Ball Moon
The Life of Buddah
Hiromi’s Hands
The Birthday of the World