What we’re reading: Sunday Under the Lemon Tree

Sundays Under the Lemon Tree book cover.
If you love stories about family, food, and a sprinkle of magic in everyday life, you’ll adore Sundays Under the Lemon Tree, the brand-new picture book by Julia Busuttil Nishimura, known for her acclaimed cookbooks, and illustrator Myo Yim. This heartwarming picture book celebrates family traditions, cooking adventures, and the special moments that make Sundays so sweet.

A story full of warmth (and cake!)

Based on Julia’s childhood growing up in Adelaide in a Maltese family, it follows the story of a young girl learning to make a very special family recipe and taking part in family traditions. This heartwarming picture book celebrates family traditions, cooking adventures, and the special moments that make Sundays so sweet.

Image: Annika Kafcaloudis.

Sundays Under the Lemon Tree follows a young child through a magical Sunday spent with family — from the sounds and smells of home cooking, to collecting seawater to make ricotta, and finally learning to bake a treasured family apple cake.

Julia’s gentle storytelling and Myo’s beautiful illustrations create a world filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of sharing food together.

Each page feels like stepping into a sunny kitchen, where love and tradition fill the air.


A celebration of family, food & tradition

This delightful story celebrates connection, heritage, and the simple pleasures of cooking and spending time with loved ones. It’s a story about family recipes, learning new skills, and cherishing moments that pass from one generation to the next.

And yes — it even includes the special apple cake recipe from the story, so young readers can bake it at home with their families!


Why we love it

  • It’s perfect for young readers who love helping in the kitchen or hearing stories about family.

  • The illustrations are vibrant and cozy, capturing the warmth of Sunday afternoons.

  • It inspires kids to explore their own family traditions — and maybe even create new ones!


Get your copy of Sundays Under the Lemon Tree available now at your local bookstore or click here.

 

 

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