Commentaire descriptif

In this impressive book, healthy food, food justice and activism, global trends and cultural differences are all addressed through the edifying lens of school lunches. Double-page spreads focus on a particular school, their lunchtime meal and accompanying traditions. Students will learn that in flood-prone Singra, Bangladesh, a school-boat tows a floating garden of fresh produce that’s tended by parents. In Nantes, France, the school serves children four-course lunches, including a cheese course. Fascinating facts are delivered in fairly dense yet straightforward language. The organization allows for students to read one, several or all of the segments. Fabulous food photography is labelled and captioned, with detailed explanations of the food items, their taste and sources. Colourful spot illustrations offer further context. The spreads include stories of both good and insufficient nutrition—of creative solutions and situations requiring change. Both the text and the images transmit general cultural information as well. The whole concept provides opportunities for student discussion and research on myriad topics—from the globalization of food trends to making healthier choices for their own lunches. An introduction and back material (including a glossary) expand on the themes of this important and useful book.