Blue Bowl Down: An Appalachian Rhyme

by C.M. Millen, Holly Meade (Illustrator)

C. M. Millen’s lilting, recipe in rhyme and Holly Meade’s inviting world of collage pay tribute to life’s simpler pleasures, and to the special relationship between mother and child.

Lift the bowl to make our bread,
down the blue bowl, little baby.

The sun is about to set, and it’s almost time for bed. But for the family in this cozy Appalachian farmhouse, it’s time for the comforting ritual of making bread. Just as mother and child will soon settle down for their rest, the dough is prepared in its special blue bowl and left to rest on the stove. And come morning, after they (and the dough) have risen, it’s time to savor a warm, satisfying breakfast and the start of a new day.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Storytime

32 pages, Hardcover

First published April 12, 2004

Reviews

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading this one to one of my classes years ago. The rhythm of the poem is unique and a little hard for me to catch sometimes, but I still enjoy it, and the kids seemed to like it, too. :)

3.5 stars

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story about the author's family's sourdough traditions. Lovely. For younger children.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Appalachian rhyme tells of the preparations to make sour dough bread. Notice how the little one is involved in the process in ways that are appropriate for his age. I like how the words of this title are lively.

[Lucia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sweet book with lovely, primitive illustrations.

[Olson Family Matters · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great for the B sound - Madelyn wanted to read it several times.

[John]

Perfect for toddler storytimes!

[Alison Zak · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Henry and I read this October 6th. Not quite sure what we thought of it.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trying this at storytime tomorrow, but it may be a bit long.

[Rani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Traditional rhyme about making bread with the baby! Great idea!