Toronto, ON – In many countries like the UK, US, and Canada, Caribbean immigrants account for a large subset of the population, yet finding narratives, especially children's stories, that shine a light on their experiences can be challenging.
To address this gap, husband and wife duo Noel-Andrew and Roxanne Bennett have unveiled their children's picture book, Jerk Chicken Magic — which debuted as a #1 Bestseller in Multicultural Stories for Children and #1 in New Releases in Children’s Books on Immigration on Amazon CA and US, respectively.
A heartfelt ode to immigrant families, the book delves into the challenges many immigrants face in a new country while emphasizing the cultural importance of preserving timeless recipes and traditions passed down through generations.
Following the multigenerational Higgins family, the heartwarming story centers on the family’s preparations for a special day. Narrated through the eyes of Lizzy Higgins, their charming and curious 6-year-old daughter, the culinary magic of one of Jamaica's most renowned exports, jerk chicken, takes center stage.
"The journey of the Higgins family mirrors the experiences of many immigrant families. The book celebrates the rich history and traditions these families maintain while navigating the challenges of starting anew. It offers a unique perspective on this journey through the eyes of a child," shared Roxanne Bennett, co-author of the book.
Noel-Andrew added, "Writing this book resonated deeply with us. As Jamaican-Canadians, we identify with the Higgins family, and we believe other families will see parts of their immigrant journey in them as well."
Jerk Chicken Magic is published through Coconut Milk Co., a brand reimagining Caribbean-inspired art, apparel, and storytelling. The book is available on Amazon, at select major retailers and directly from the publisher at coconutmilk.co.The authors will be hosting a free public book signing in Toronto at Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen on Tuesday, February 13 from 6pm to 8pm.
