A joyful celebration of food, friendship, and culture, Fried Rice Surprise shows how a little bit of this and a little bit of that can create something magical

Fern loves opening her lunchbox—sometimes it holds something colorful, sometimes sweet and spicy, but always delicious. When she learns about the Japanese tradition of “mottainai”—never wasting what’s too good to throw away—Fern is inspired to create a meal to share with her friends.

Together with her mama, she stirs up a wok of fried rice filled with everyone’s favorite flavors: curry spices, carnitas, pilaf, bok choy, and more.

With lively, joyful illustrations by Shiho Pate and a heartfelt story by Patricia Tanumihardja, this picture book celebrates food, friendship, and the magic that happens when different ingredients—and people—come together.