Lindsey, Kathleen D. illustrated by: Charlotte Riley-Webb Sweet Potato Pie. New York: Lee & Low Books Inc.
Sweet Potato Pie tells the story of a family and how this familiar dessert saved their farm. When Papa finds out that he has to come up with $75 or the bank will take his farm, Mama comes up with a plan. She decides the family can raise the money by selling sweet potato pies at the Harvest Celebration. Her five children give her help and her plan is a success as they raise enough money to save the farm.
The book is a great representation of the Black Family's ability to make something out of nothing. Throughout the book, the family faces obstacles preventing them from making and selling the pies including rowdy pigs, rabid roosters, and a loud band. Sweet potato pie is a historic staple in the Black community and cuisine and serves as a symbol of Black hope, family, and tenacity.
The pictures are very vivid and colorful. Riley-Webb does a great job of emphasizing colors and shades in the foreground to show emotion and excitement. She also does a great job of blending colors and images together to show confusion and chaos. Overall, I think the book works as a piece of art that reflects the Black struggle and perseverance in the Black community.
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