Spaghetti Giraffe and his other ‘animal’ friends live under an oven in the kitchen of Mina Cucina. Marshmallo Pig, Macaroni Snail, Prune Hedgehogs, Blue Speckled Giraffe and Fluff Monkey, and Spaghetti Giraffe himself all came about after disasters in Mina’s kitchen. And there were a LOT of disasters.

Mina’s mother was a culinary genius, and Mina wants to cook too, but every time she tries, something explodes, spills or burns. Everybody (including her cat), knows to run and hide when she aims herself at another recipe.

After her horrendous efforts, there are two men in town who would love to help her in her kitchen. One is a bossy baker and another is Mina’s best friend Gorgon, who is quite the opposite. Gorgon is quiet and shy and only wants what will make Mina happy.

Despite her dangerous exploits in attempted cookery, the animals all want to help Mina. They watch the comings and goings in Mina’s kitchen and upon deciding something must be done, they embark on an exciting adventure.

This magical story is like reading a beloved fairy tale. There is a wicked older woman, a confident rich man, a kind but cowardly character and magical beings afoot. Fairy tale vibe or not, there is a definite modern theme of kindness to others, being true to yourself, and empowerment of women. 

With adorable black and white illustrations sprinkled throughout, this kiwi tale and will make a fantastic read-aloud for Year 2-4 (age 6-8). This is the 2nd book in a trilogy. The first is entitled The Spaghetti Giraffe.

Author – Sarah Johnson

Illustrator – Deborah Hinde

Age – 6+

Read the 1st two chapters here

Activities here!

Find this book here

(Magic, Animals, Series, Adventure, Courage, Kindness, Kiwi, NZ, New Zealand, Friendship, Cooking, Baking, Bossy Bully, Kiwi Author)