VENUS WASHINGTON AND THE LASAGNA DRAMA

Verbal misunderstandings lead to mystery—and humor—in this series opener.

When Venus Washington’s grandfather announces that her grandmother has “put her foot in this lasagna,” the youngster is grossed out—and curious. How much of Grandma’s foot went into the lasagna? Is she missing a toe? As she attempts to decipher this puzzling idiom, Venus, who is Black, is supported by a close-knit cast of Black and brown family members and friends, including BFF Summer. (Also tagging along is Summer’s humorless twin, Winter, who’s Venus’ WEF: Worst Enemy Forever.) While Summer and Winter serve as lookouts, Venus sneaks into Grandma’s room for a closer look at her feet, but when Grandma gets startled, Venus bolts. Next, Venus enlists her hamster Hamsterburger’s help; perhaps he can sniff through the leftover lasagna and find Grandma’s toes? Oso adds a comical and slightly absurd twist that will delight readers. The narrative balances clever wordplay with heart, emphasizing curiosity, problem-solving, and the playful exploration of language. With her literal interpretations and inventive thinking, Venus feels like a modern-day Amelia Bedelia; grounded with specific cultural details, her tale offers a humorous lens on family dynamics and intergenerational communication while inviting emerging readers to think critically about language and laugh along with Venus’ misadventures. Lovett’s expressive black-and-white artwork, interspersed throughout, enhances the text.

A winning combination of quirky humor, wordplay, and warm family story.