Peeny Butter Fudge

Peeny Butter Fudge

Written by Toni Morrison and Slade Morrison

Illustrated by Joe Cepeda     

"Hold my hand and swing around.
Feel the rhythm in the ground.
Lift your left foot,
now your right.
Shake your shoulders
with all your might."

Peeny Butter Fudge is a fun and heartwarming story about children spending the day with their Nana. The story begins with Mom leaving for work, and Nana is left in charge. Mom leaves instructions for the day, but Nana and the kids have adventures planned. Their day is full of activities, including making delicious "peeny butter fudge". When Mom comes home, she isn't too pleased about the mess in the house, but she softens when she smells the peeny butter fudge and remembers happy times from her own childhood. 

Anyone who loves the work of Toni Morrison will enjoy this collaboration with her son, Slade. Toni Morrison's way with words shines in the rhymes telling the story, and the children's book genre shows a more light-hearted side of this renowned author. 

In the Classroom
Depending on the age/academic level of the students, have them draw a picture or write a short personal narrative. Students will brainstorm about a happy memory spent with someone who is important in their life (parents, grandparents, older siblings, baby-sitters, etc.). Then the students will write, or draw, about a day spent with this person. 

Age level: Children's book