Book details

Macmillan Children's Book

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox

Author: Costantia Manoli; illustrated by Magdalena Mora

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox

About This Book

A moving picture book from a debut author about the first day of school, layered with themes about the immigrant experience and the universal experience of feeling out of place.

Page Count
32
On Sale
06/21/2022
Age Range
4-8

Book Details

A moving picture book from a debut author about the first day of school, layered with themes about the immigrant experience and the universal experience of feeling out of place.

A child, newly arrived in another country, feels displaced, lonely, and a little scared on her first day of school. Her name doesn't sound the way she's used to hearing it. She knows she doesn't fit in. And when she eats her whole tomato for lunch, she can feel her classmates observing her—and not quite understanding her.

But sometimes all it takes is one friend, one connection, to bring two worlds together, and gradually the girl, her tomato, and her full name, start to feel at home with her new friends and community.

This emotionally sweeping debut picture book by Costantia Manoli, with vibrant art by Magdalena Mora, artfully captures feelings of displacement and the joy that comes from forging new friendships.

Imprint Publisher

Roaring Brook Press

ISBN

9781250763129

In The News

"[A] beautifully told and illustrated story that expresses, with sensitivity and inspired use of figurative language, a child’s attempt to fit with the dominant culture—a common experience that will resonate with many readers and inspire empathy in others." —Kirkus, starred review

"An excellent choice for back to school and “new kid” picture book collections. This will resonate with many readers." —School Library Journal, starred review

"[S]ensitively articulated... [with] lushly wrought illustrations" —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A comforting book for a child who may feel isolated due to an uncommon name, or for one feeling uprooted and adrift in a new place." —Horn Book Magazine

"
An expressive picture book that articulates a young immigrant’s viewpoint."Booklist

A Bookstagang Future Classic Picture Books of 2022

About the Creators

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox