Okra Stew : A Gullah Geechee Family Celebration

Featuring stunning mixed-media collage artwork, this exuberant picture book celebrates a special day of cooking shared between a boy and his father, a family feast, and the beautiful traditions of the Gullah Geechee people—perfect for fans of Fry Bread, Thank You, Omu!, and My Papi Has a Motorcycle.

Papa has something special planned for tonight’s family dinner—and Bobo can’t wait! Eager to learn how to make okra stew like his ancestors, Bobo helps Papa pick and chop vegetables from the garden, catch shrimp from the creek, rain down rice in the pot, simmer the stew, and even make a tasty side of cornbread—all culminating in a mouthwatering feast enjoyed by three generations of family members.

Inspired by Natalie Daise's own Gullah Geechee culture, this rhythmic, joyous debut picture book—from the co-creator of the hit '90s Nickelodeon show Gullah Gullah Island—is a celebration of Gullah Geechee traditions and highlights a special day shared between father and son as they cook a central cultural dish. Backmatter includes a detailed author’s note about Gullah culture and Natalie's own okra stew recipe.

Natalie Daise is a magnetic performer, speaker, and artist who has long connected with young people in her community and beyond, sharing Gullah songs and traditions. Best known as the co-star of the hit Nickelodeon show Gullah Gullah Island, Natalie is embarking on a new form of storytelling with her debut picture book, Okra Stew, and hopes to continue to entertain, educate, empower, and inspire. She has been married to Ron Daise, her cheerleader, supporter, and committed partner in creativity and life since 1985. They have two children, Sara and Simeon, by birth, and one, Sabrina, by heart.