Chopsticks Are

PreS-K–Ward’s vibrant picture book elevates the beauty, versatility, and cultural significance of chopsticks in a lyrical text that acts as introduction, practical exploration, and work of art. As the book explores the role of chopsticks in kitchens and cultures across East Asia and beyond, Scurfield’s richly colored illustrations offer authentic and visually appealing depictions of a variety of foods, traditions, and families brought together around the table. The visual movement of the text across pages adds a playful quality but can make it challenging to follow the flow of the words on the page. Some terminology may be unfamiliar to some readers, and there is no pronunciation guide. However, facts are presented in a way that does not detract from the book’s appeal. This title is a strong choice for read-alouds in elementary classrooms and an excellent resource for cultural or inquiry projects.