By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
An award-winning author has been invited to the Belgrave Library on Tuesday 19 November for a special story-time and all families are invited to join the event.
Kate Mildenhall, who has previously written novels for adults, is now sharing her very first picture book, ‘To Stir With Love’, she’ll be hosting an interactive and fun session for both kids and their grown-ups to enjoy.
The picture book, illustrated by Jess Racklyeft, is a heartwarming story about baking with grandmothers and the special bond that’s created in the kitchen.
The book is written in memory of Ms Mildenhall’s own grandmother, who passed away a few years ago, the book reflects on the traditions of cooking together and the love passed down through generations.
The story focuses on how recipes, like cherished family memories, are shared – and sometimes need a little help to be remembered.
“I had so much fun writing this book, and now I’m having even more fun sharing it with kids,” Ms Mildenhall said.
“It’s a book for my grandmother, really. I hope it reminds families of the importance of spending time together, enjoying the little moments and, of course, creating something delicious.”
The event at Belgrave Library will include a reading of ‘To Stir With Love’, followed by fun activities for kids, such as decorating cakes and talking about their own special family recipes.
The story includes a recipe for ‘Grandma’s Everything Cake,’ and kids will even have a chance to add their own favourite recipes to a special page at the back of the book.
Ms Mildenhall has been busy since the book’s launch in September, visiting schools, kindergartens, and bookstores across Melbourne, including 52 visits and 20 Story-time sessions so far.
She’s thrilled to hear about families enjoying the book together and making the cake at home.
“One of my favourite parts of this whole journey has been seeing kids get excited about baking and spending time with their loved ones in the kitchen,” she said.
“It’s really not about the cake, but the time spent together, and I’ve had some lovely messages from parents who are making memories with their kids through the book.”
The event on Tuesday 19 November is open to everyone, whether they come with kids or just want to share in the joy of the story.
The Book Barn, a local bookstore in Belgrave, will be at the event selling copies of ‘To Stir With Love’, and Ms Mildenhall will be happy to sign and personalise books for those who attend.
The book is now available in all good bookstores. If you can’t make it to the event, you can still pick up a copy and enjoy this special story with your family at home.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Kate Mildenhall, meet other families, and create some beautiful memories of your own at Belgrave Library on Tuesday.
