From the Food Group series
BY JORY JOHN ; ILLUSTRATED BY PETE OSWALD ‧ RELEASE DATE: NOV. 7, 2023
“The Big Cheese” is a delightful tale that starts with the Big Cheese’s humble beginnings in the village of Curds-on-Whey, where kitchen curds live quiet lives of pasteurization. The Big Cheese becomes a star by sticking to what they’re good at. However, things take a turn when Wedge, a newcomer, arrives in the village.
Wedge, the modest and multitalented character, outshines the Big Cheese in the annual Cheese-cathlon, winning every event from footraces to hat making. This leaves the Big Cheese disappointed and throwing a tantrum. But a moment of truth hits when the Big Cheese learns that losing doesn’t spell disaster. Through self-calming and conscious breathing, the Big Cheese realizes the importance of participating and empathizing with others.
The story teaches valuable life lessons: losing builds empathy, and the obsession with winning can overshadow the joy of participating. The once boastful Big Cheese learns to reserve bragging for lifting up friends because, in the end, anyone can be the Big Cheese.
Though less pun-rich than previous entries in the Food Group series, this book combines a cheerful refrain with pithy life lessons that resonate. Oswald’s comical illustrations, detailing the village life of kitchen curds, add to the humor. The book emphasizes the importance of humility, sportsmanship, and finding joy in the journey rather than just the destination. “The Big Cheese” is a heartwarming story that encourages children to embrace the spirit of participation and empathy.
This is the END of THE BIG CHEESE SHORT REVIEW.
Pub Date: Nov. 7, 2023
ISBN: 9780063329508
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Harper/HarperCollins
Review Posted Online: Aug. 26, 2023
FreshNWS Reviews Issue: Dec 29, 2023
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