Sari-Sari Summers

This heartwarming picture book celebrates intergenerational bonds and cultural heritage through the story of Nora and her Lola. During a scorching summer in the Philippines, Nora worries when her grandmother's sari-sari store, a local hub, becomes empty. Inspired by ripe mangoes, Nora devises a brilliant plan to make mango ice candy, revitalizing the store and bringing joy to their community. The book includes a recipe for mango ice candy, making it a delightful read that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and an appreciation for family and culture. Perfect for ages 4-8.

In this love letter to the Philippines (and to grandmothers), a young girl comes up with a brilliantly delicious way to attract customers after a heat wave leaves her lola’s store empty. Nora loves spending summers with Lola at her sari-sari store, a treasure trove filled with everything you could need, from hair accessories to toys, creamy yema to sour tamarind candy. And this year, Nora is big enough to help her grandmother. But when a heat wave strikes and no one comes to the store, Nora worries that she won’t get to spend the rest of the summer with her lola—until she gets a sweet idea. After all, the mangoes on the tree outside are finally ripe, and with a bit of measuring, mixing, and a good deal of tasting, Nora and Lola have a refreshing way to bring people together—and to the sari-sari store. With soft, heartfelt illustrations, Lynnor Bontigao’s endearing picture book—featuring a recipe for making mango ice candy like Nora’s—is an ode to ingenuity and to intergenerational relationships that’s as sweet and gentle as a kiss on the cheek.