GOOD DEEDS, Indeed! A PLATE OF HOPE

 I've referenced in prior posts the lyrics for a Rogers and Hammerstein classic, YOU'VE GOT TO BE CAREFULLY TAUGHT. Its powerful lyrics recount the ways in which all of us, in early days, view the world with openness, but hate and bias can (and are) taught through exposure to those vile practices. I know these are also beliefs, abstract concepts, but, like kindness, words are far less potent as teachers than are actions. Especially when practiced by and observed in those we love and admire.

RANDOM HOUSE STUDIO, 2024

In this new picture book, A PLATE OF HOPE: The Inspiring Story of Chef Jose Andres and World Central Kitchen, by Erin Frankel and Paola Escobar, that truth resonates on every page. In this case, the lessons learned are of love and acceptance. The chef and founder of WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN learned his lifelong love of sharing food and support within his family, through their actions and lived commitment. Readers learn of Andres' early years in Spain visually (and with deftly-used bilingual lines throughout) in which his family shares meals with many in their community. His papa not only concocts a gloriously generous paella, he reminds Andres that "keeping the fire burning" is essential, even more important than stirring or adding ingredients. That metaphorical charge pairs with the occasional language patterns that mirror "the house that Jack built" to set Andres on a course for his lifetime mission. 

Endpapers brilliantly convey how global lives are actually interconnected individuals, depending on each other while also uplifting others, with the food of the world as a unifying force. We follow childhood Jose through his dream of creating food that would warm hearts and inspire others. Into adulthood, his travels and learning, lead to developing his own restaurants and chefs, earning accolades for innovation and irresistible cuisine. His mission remained to reach all people, especially those who most need to have their stomachs and hearts filled with acceptance and courage. It was an enormous goal, but he believed ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

His first "mass kitchen" emerged in Haiti after an earthquake that devastated the small island country. He dreamed even bigger and founded WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN with a goal that none should ever go hungry. When Hurricane Maria caused unparalleled destruction in Puerto Rico, Andres got to work. Throughout the country he and his ever-growing team of chefs and volunteers prepared food at kitchens across the island to feed hungry people, and to make clear that they were not forgotten, they were cared for. His standard was always high- the food must be hot and good! It always inc lauded Paella is much more than rice. It is a message of love and connection. 

Since then, WCK (World Central Kitchen) has grown and served throughout places of natural disaster, war, chronic hunger (right here inn the US) and more. They are recognized by governments and warring parties with respect, although their work is far from safe. In April of this year a convoy was attacked and workers were killed while heading to a distribution site in  Gaza. Despite his heartbreak about this horror, Chef Andres and WCK workers remain committed to serving those who hunger and feel ignored. His story is made both appealing and accessible in this outstanding new picture book. It's a book that can help us make sure young folks are "carefully taught" and inspired to grow and know- Anything Is Possible.