Leaving Home

Designed to attract young readers to the fun of cooking and eating more fruits and vegetables, this adventure story and cookbook follows Ottavio Fornero, a pint-sized member of Marco Polo’s expedition, as he discovers wondrous foods through the rich cultural traditions of people along the Silk Road. Ottavio journeys from Venice to the Middle East, sharing 36 easy-to-follow recipes inspired by the trip along the way. By making food an adventure, the book provides parents with an exciting way to read, learn, and cook with their children and share their family’s long-held food traditions while creating new ones. Also included is a medieval world map showing Polo’s actual expedition routes; glossaries of cooking terms, techniques, and utensils; an extensive illustrated history of the ingredients; modern adaptations; and historical trivia.

Gracie Cavnar is the creator of the award-winning and nationally recognized nonprofit Recipe for Success Foundation. She is a philanthropist and lifelong cook and gardening enthusiast. She lives in Houston. Anni Matsick is an artist for children’s publishing in trade, periodical, and educational materials. She holds a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University. She lives in State College, Pennsylvania.