
Reach for this book when your child is starting to express curiosity about the wider world or is hesitant to try new flavors at the dinner table. It is a perfect bridge for the 'picky eater' who enjoys the magic of a secret adventure but needs a gentle nudge to see food as an exciting journey rather than a chore. The story follows siblings Alfie and Emilia as they are whisked away to a French culinary school, where they must navigate a case of mistaken identity and the high-stakes world of professional cooking. Beyond the whimsical travel, the book emphasizes the importance of sibling teamwork and the boost in self-confidence that comes from mastering a new skill. It is an ideal independent read for elementary students, offering a lighthearted blend of fantasy and cultural appreciation. Parents will appreciate how it frames cooking as a form of creative expression and a way to connect with others across different cultures.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book is entirely secular and safe for all audiences. It avoids heavy topics like death or trauma, focusing instead on the mild anxiety of being 'found out' and the pressure of performance.
An 8-year-old who loves watching cooking competition shows but might be nervous about trying new things in their own life. It's for the child who enjoys 'fish out of water' stories and the idea of kids having secret adventures right under the noses of adults.
This book can be read cold. Parents might want to have some basic French pastry terms or a simple crepe recipe ready, as the book will almost certainly spark a request to bake. A parent might choose this after hearing their child say 'I can't do that' regarding a recipe or a new hobby, or if the child is struggling to get along with a sibling during shared activities.
Younger readers (ages 6-7) will focus on the magic of the travel and the humor of the mistaken identity. Older readers (9-10) will pick up on the specific cultural details of Paris and the nuances of the sibling dynamic.
Unlike many travel fantasies, this one centers specifically on the sensory experience of food and the technical aspects of cooking, written with the authority of a professional chef (Giada De Laurentiis).
Siblings Alfie and Emilia travel to Paris via a magical trunk found in their Great-Aunt Gigi's home. Upon arrival, they are mistaken for world-class chefs at a prestigious cooking school. They must navigate the pressures of a professional kitchen, learn the secrets of French pastry, and find a way back home while keeping their true identities secret.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.