SOGGY LIKE CUSH CUSH

A boring rainy day becomes filled with warmth as a grandmother and grandchild travel around town doing various acts of goodwill.

Petite Marie laments the prospect of a day spent inside; today is as soggy as a bowl of cush cush (cornbread). But Gran-moman insists, “Dere’s planty we can do.” She tucks some okra and a jar of tea leaves into her purse, and they head out for a ride past sugar cane fields and pastures before making a series of visits. They offer okra and tea to one neighbor, pick up shrimp from another, and go to a church to help with the food drive. At each stop, people who are clearly familiar with Gran-moman and her generous nature offer extra treats to Petite Marie. By the time they arrive at Gran-popa’s grave, a ray of sunshine peeks through the clouds as Gran-moman remembers her late husband’s wise words about how seemingly little actions matter most. The rain continues to fall, but Petite Marie’s mood has lifted by the time they return home. This quiet story is rich with life, from the small moments and kind deeds that form the fabric of our communities to the remembrance of loved ones who live on in us. Gran-moman, Petite Marie, and the members of their community present Black and speak in a dialect of Louisiana Creole, and the author’s note discusses Black Louisiana Creole culture. Uroda’s soft illustrations use a variety of clever perspective shifts, thoughtful compositions, and cool and warm palettes to immerse us in Petite Marie’s day.

An inspiring, beautifully told book of golden moments to be savored.