Showdown At The Food Pyramid
Showdown at the Food Pyramid is a children's book that introduces kids to the "Food Guide Pyramid, developed by the United States Department of Agriculture." More specifically, young readers are introduced to the four food groups, and are presented with a basic understanding of nutrition. This of course is done through the use of fruit and vegetable characters such as Granny Smith as well as villains like King Candy Bar.
The story begins with a nutritious balanced food pyramid, which remained strong by following the Great Food Guide that was tacked to the wall. Everything changed, of course, when strange foods started showing up like candy bars and hot dogs. These unhealthy foods were too heavy for the pyramid, thus it came crashing down. However, have no fear, for the pyramid was rebuilt! This however was only done after Carolina Cucumber remembered that the food must follow the Great Food Guide.
I believe that the idea of introducing nutrition and a balanced diet to children is important and essential. Using a fictional children's book in order to do this is fun and exciting. However, I feel that this particular story could have been a little more creative. Furthermore, depending on the age of the child reading this story, they may not understand certain expressions such as "how about them apples?!" This book does however contain great illustrations that help bring this book alive.
In summary, while I feel that this book is somewhat lacking in creativity but it contains an important message that should be conveyed to all children.
