Thank You, Omu!
| Industry | Publishing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Books |
Thank You, Omu! is a 2018 picture book authored by Oge Mora and released by Little, Brown and Company on October 2, 2018. The narrative centers on Omu, who prepares a stew and generously shares it with her neighbors, who in turn express their appreciation by bringing her dishes. The book originated as a student project at the Rhode Island School of Design, where it caught the attention of a Little, Brown editor prior to Mora securing representation. Its illustrations earned the 2019 Caldecott Honor.
Background and publication
Initially named Omu's Stew, the project started as a classroom task requiring a character to experience gain or loss. The term "Omu" translates to queen in Igbo and was also used by Mora’s family to refer to a grandmother figure, whom Mora acknowledges as an inspiration in the book’s backmatter. During the student presentation, an editor from Little, Brown offered Mora a contract.
Plot
The enticing scent of Omu’s stew attracts neighbors who ask for servings, which she freely provides until the pot is empty. In gratitude, the community members bring food back to Omu, culminating in a shared feast and celebration.
Writing and illustrations
Mora utilized mixed media techniques—including cut paper, paint, and china markers—to produce lively, textured artwork noted for its richness and cultural significance. The collage approach visually supports themes of diversity and inclusion, paralleling the way stew blends different ingredients. The illustration of steam wafting through the neighborhood received particular praise. Mora’s artistic style reflects her Nigerian roots and African-American heritage, merging these influences into a distinctive visual storytelling method reminiscent of illustrators like Ezra Jack Keats.
The tale’s folkloric quality highlights food as a means of fostering sharing and community bonds. Omu’s kindness establishes her as a grandmotherly presence within the neighborhood. The book’s use of sophisticated vocabulary combined with repetition enhances its suitability for read-aloud experiences.
Reception and awards
Receiving a starred review from Kirkus Reviews, the book was also lauded by Publishers Weekly, which included it among 2018’s best books for its focus on inclusivity and communal spirit. School Library Journal praised it as an innovative and captivating story perfect for group reading.
At the 2019 Youth Media Awards, it won a Caldecott Honour for illustration excellence along with the Coretta Scott King Steptoe Award recognizing outstanding new illustrators. Mora initially mistook the Caldecott Honor notification call for a telemarketing attempt but later described the recognition as a dream realized early in her career. Additionally, the book secured the 2019 Ezra Jack Keats Book Award celebrating exceptional illustration work.