Try It!

How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat

Mara Rockliff

In a world where the culinary landscape is continuously evolving, Try It!: How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat emerges as a delightful tribute to a pioneer whose impact reverberates through farmers' markets, kitchens, and grocery aisles everywhere. Authored by the talented Mara Rockliff, this vibrant picture book introduces readers to Frieda Caplan, a woman who reshaped our relationship with food by championing unique produce and advocating for adventurous eating. Her journey is not just about vegetables; it's a powerful story of daring to be different, and it inspires us all to challenge the mundane.

Frieda Caplan was a force of nature. Born in a world where women were often sidelined, she defied expectations, wrangling with convention as she introduced exotic fruits and vegetables to American tables. Just think about that first bite of a fuzzy kiwifruit or a delicately spiced radicchio-a world that was once closed off now bursts with flavors, colors, and textures thanks to her vision. Rockliff takes us on a journey where Caplan not only cultivates crops but cultivates curiosity, encouraging children and adults alike to venture beyond the familiar. 🍽✨️

The 32 pages of this gem are beautifully illustrated, a canvas where each vibrant color pops off the page and invites exploration. It's a visual feast, encapsulating the awesomeness of fresh ingredients transformed into culinary possibilities. Young readers can almost feel the crunch of a dragon fruit or the splash of a pomegranate seed bursting as they dive into various ways to enjoy these newfound flavors. The artwork blends perfectly with the text, crafting a world where food is not just sustenance but a gateway to adventure and culture.

Readers have been captivated by Rockliff's storytelling prowess, and many laud her ability to present Caplan's story in a manner accessible to children. They see it not only as an educational piece but also as one that instills a sense of courage and curiosity in young eaters-pushing them to say "yes" to new experiences rather than shy away from the unknown. Critics, however, may express concern that the narrative could have explored Caplan's personal challenges in more depth, but the book's charming simplicity speaks volumes about encouraging exploration without overcomplicating the message.

This work doesn't just serve as a fond memory; it's a rallying cry for food enthusiasts everywhere. The legacy of Frieda Caplan transcends generations and is imbued with the notion that food should be an exciting adventure rather than a monotonous routine. Readers are left ruminating on how they partake in their own culinary explorations and the importance of supporting diverse, sustainable agriculture.

In a climate where many individuals feel disconnected from their food sources, Try It! arrives like a breath of fresh air, nudging you to embrace both the familiar and the uncharted. It's a book that compels you to explore the farmers' market, to pick up that unusual vegetable you've never seen before and to dare yourself to try it! It promises not only a deliciously diverse experience but a profound reconnection with the earth, community, and shared meals. As children read about Frieda's journey, they're not just hearing about a woman who changed the way we eat-they're being invited to be brave, to be adventurous, and to change the way they live.

If you haven't yet ventured into the pages of this delightful tribute, now is the perfect time. Don't just take my word for it-dive into the vivid world of Try It! and discover how one woman's tenacity can reshape not just our plates, but our lives. Indulge your senses and ignite your curiosity. Your next meal might just be waiting for a Frieda Caplan moment. 🌱🍍

📖 Try It!: How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat

✍ by Mara Rockliff

🧾 32 pages

2021

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