A few dishes evoke as much affection and nostalgia as Molokhaya. In her new children’s book, All Because of the Molokhaya, author Samar Taher invites young readers to embark on a journey through family stories, cultural heritage, and the simple joys of food.
At the heart of this narrative is Fouad. He is a curious child whose love for molokhaya sparks a quest for understanding his identity and familial ties. As Fouad converses with his family, he discovers that each relative has a unique memory associated with this beloved dish. “My mother said… my grandmother said… my father said… my aunt said!”—this refrain illustrates the idea that every story is told through the storyteller’s lens. It is a concept that resonates deeply in our shared human experience.
Inspiration Behind the Book:
Taher’s inspiration for this book stemmed from several sources. While she acknowledges molokhaya as a cherished favorite among children, her motivation goes beyond mere culinary appreciation. She observed that “the same story about our children is told in multiple ways.” This prompted her to explore the richness of perspectives in storytelling. This is a theme that serves as a gentle reminder that our interpretations shape our realities.
Another inspiration source was Taher’s concern over the cultural identity of molokhaya. Recently, the iconic Egyptian dish had been registered as a cultural product of another country. She wondered, “After many years, will we forget that molokhia is an Egyptian dish and remember it as a dish belonging to other cultures?” This concern sparked her commitment to preserving cultural heritage through storytelling, particularly in a globalized world where traditions can be easily overshadowed.
Traditional Food & Stories:
The book’s narrative style engages young readers, employing a poetic format that combines rhythm with meaningful content. “I chose to write the story in a poetic narrative style, using rhyme at the ends of the lines, which children particularly enjoy,” Taher explains. This approach ensures that children enjoy the melody of the language. Also, it helps them absorb the historical and cultural significance woven into the story. Each page offers fun facts about molokhia, bridging the gap between entertainment and education.
Now more than ever, it is important to understand one’s culture. Taher’s work acts as a gateway for children to connect with their roots. The playful dialogue and fun undertones in All Because of the Molokhaya serve to spark curiosity and inquiry. It encourages readers to ask questions about their own traditions and the foods that define them. “This book isn’t just about encouraging people to appreciate this food; it’s primarily about promoting thought,” she emphasizes.
Food, Joy, and Memory:
Taher hopes that readers will come away from the book with a sense of joy and a desire to explore their own stories. She has dedicated her book to everyone—“to those who love molokhia, as well as to those who don’t”—highlighting that the essence of the story lies in promoting thoughtfulness and discussion.
As we follow Fouad on his journey, we are reminded that food is more than sustenance. It is a vessel for stories, memories, and connections across generations. In exploring his family’s culinary history, Fouad not only discovers the different ways to prepare Molokhaya but also the different perspectives that shape our understanding of identity and culture. As Fouad realizes, “Everyone has their own story,” reinforcing the beauty of diversity in shared experiences.
Ultimately, All Because of the Molokhaya serves as a reminder that within every family meal lies a world of stories waiting to be told. As we share dishes like Molokhaya, we also share a part of ourselves—a testament to the enduring power of food and storytelling in connecting us to our heritage and to one another.