MARI AND THE GREAT MARKET SWAP

Every Saturday, a small village market becomes “one big family” for Granny and little Mari.

The “cock-a-doodle-dooo” of a nearby rooster means it’s time for the two to leave the lush greenery of their backyard farm and head to the market to sell their freshly grown guavas. The van loaded, Granny drives across the scenic Bajan countryside, careful to avoid potholes as they pass brightly painted homes and sugarcane crops. Eigner’s digital illustrations create a vibrant and textured effect that makes every detail a pleasure to notice, from brown-skinned Mari’s plaited hair and dotted dress to the green glow of the guavas and the spots on the yellow bananas at the market. Upon arriving, Mari and Granny are met with big smiles. But soon Mari’s friend Wendy arrives with bad news: “A sugarcane truck toppled upside down and blocking up de main road.” Customers won’t be able to make it to the market now. The two girls’ entrepreneurial instincts kick in as they walk along, selling their wares to all they encounter, but who can compete with “free ‘cane givin’ way up de road”? The market closes early, but Mari proposes a new idea that quickly catches on—trading with one another for what they need. The use of Bajan Creole adds a richly cultural layer to this compelling story that emphasizes the value of the collective as well as the practicality of bartering.

A charming island tale with a message of community and connection.