Lori Rotter

Best Chef in Town by Lori Rotter tells the tale of Chef Romi Rabbit, a confident and somewhat self-absorbed chef, and her hardworking sous chef, Sam. ​ The story unfolds as Romi enters a high-stakes cooking competition, only to find herself unprepared and reliant on Sam’s quick thinking to save the day. ​

The narrative is fast-paced and filled with rhyming verses that make it enjoyable to read aloud. Romi’s overconfidence and her initial disregard for Sam’s contributions set the stage for a humorous yet meaningful lesson about teamwork. ​ The turning point comes when Sam, despite being overlooked, steps up to create a unique chocolate pasta dish that ultimately wins the competition. Romi’s eventual acknowledgment of Sam’s talent and her decision to share the spotlight add a heart-warming conclusion to the story.

The illustrations by Vaughan Duck are vibrant and playful, and the expressive characters bring the story to life. Duck’s ability to capture the chaos of the kitchen and the tension of the competition adds humor to the story. ​

The book also includes a fun recipe for chocolate pasta, encouraging readers to try cooking. ​ This interactive element is a clever addition, making the book not just a story but an experience that families can enjoy together.

A perfect choice for young readers who enjoy stories about food and cooking. It is sure to make them giggle and leave them feeling inspired.

Star rating: 5 Stars 

Summary: A delightful and engaging story about cooking, competition and the importance of teamwork.