Yevgenia Nayberg Boeken

All Ukrainians are supposed to love borsch--but what if you hate the slimy stuff? A young girl despises Eastern Europe's most beloved soup, and not even the grandmothers of Kiev can persuade her to change her mind. But when she immigrates to the United States, American food leaves her feeling empty. One day she discovers borsch recipes in an old suitcase. Maybe that disgusting beet soup deserves another chance... Imaginatively illustrated with splashes of borsch-bright red, this book captures the complicated experience of rejecting and embracing one's culture. A recipe and author's note provide further ways to interact with the story. Witty and poignant, I Hate Borsch will encourage readers to ponder how history, heritage, and food can shape our identities.

The narrative explores the life of artist Florine Stettheimer through the eyes of a young girl who feels a deep connection to her. As the girl reflects on Stettheimer's experiences and artistry, she imagines their potential interactions, blending admiration with personal insight. This imaginative journey highlights themes of creativity, identity, and the impact of art across generations.

In this love letter to New York City, Mona Lisa is a tourist who experiences the city for the first time, and finds art, love, and inspiration in unexpected places.