Our Big Table: What We Eat and Where it Comes From
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
Lisa Voisard’s richly illustrated nonfiction book invites children to explore how everyday foods travel from farm, forest, or ocean to their plate. Moving across continents and ecosystems, each chapter uncovers the natural history, cultural traditions, and environmental impact behind staples such as rice, cocoa, apples, milk, and wheat. Simple infographics, maps, and close-up drawings explain seasonal cycles, sustainable farming practices, and the people who grow or harvest our food. Young readers finish the journey with a deeper appreciation of global food webs and practical tips for mindful eating.
Age
6-10
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which food’s journey surprised you the most and why?
How can we reduce food waste at home after reading this book?
What seasonal foods grow where we live?
Tip: Role play these questions
Visit a local farmers’ market together and identify foods from the book.
Cook one featured recipe and talk about its ingredients’ origins.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Every meal has a story.
Explanation: Tracing ingredients links food to real people and places.
Real-World Application: Children can express gratitude before eating and waste less.
Example Lesson: Our choices impact the planet.
Explanation: Sections on fishing and farming show ecological footprints.
Real-World Application: Kids can choose seasonal, local produce when possible.
Example Lesson: Diversity enriches life.
Explanation: Global dishes and traditions are celebrated equally.
Real-World Application: Families can try meals from different cultures together.
Example Lesson: Scientific observation is everywhere.
Explanation: Processes like pollination and fermentation are broken down clearly.
Real-World Application: Kids can grow herbs at home and observe plant cycles.