Where other books might simply preach, this book presents the problem with a great deal of truth and consequence. It will inspire change. It is true, inappetent children do eat something, and in Jasper’s case, it's pasta.
The vivid illustrations in this story show Jasper developing bags under his eyes, and becoming skinny and weak from a lack of nutrition. The wake-up call comes when he's too weak to lift his cricket bat, and is taken to a doctor for some advice.
Cricket fame motivates Jasper to start eating, coupled with the doctor’s sound advice, ‘You don’t have to eat food, you just have to taste it.’
Isn’t that all any parent wants?
Like all good rhyming books, this story will be a joy to read over and over again. The honesty, the consequences and the motivation to change might just linger after this enjoyable story has been read.
And who knows? Your kids might just eat their tea.
Look out for Ginger McFlea will not Clean Her Teeth, where you’ll meet Jasper McFlea’s twin sister.
Title: Jasper McFlea will not Eat his Tea
Author: Lee Fox
Illustrator: Mitch Vane
Publisher: Lothian Children's Books, $16.99 RRP
Publication Date: 2009
Format: Soft Cover
ISBN: 9780734410993
For ages: 3-6
Type: Picture Book