"Bright, colorful illustrations portray Shanté's energy and determination to save her family tradition...this is a simple way to introduce young children to other cultures and traditions. The recipe for Grandma Louise's Hoppin' John provides a fun activity for families."--Kirkus Reviews

"In rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, this upbeat story celebrates family, community, and multiculturalism, highlighting an African-American family's New Year's food traditions, including 'lucky' black-eyed peas...The story, with abundant dialogue, is written in couplets, with all lines ending in a long 'e' sound, and the expressive art warmly portrays characters' interactions in bright, rich hues and lively detail."--Booklist

"The lighthearted rhyme presents various cultural food customs associated with the holiday. A look at New Year's traditions around the world and a recipe for Hoppin' John are appended."--School Library Journal