In Pierre's emotionally satisfying debut, which celebrates Creole culture, young Petite Marie broods during a stormy day at her grandmother's home: "I wanna do something. But the weather's terrible." Gran-moman replies, "It's jus' soggy like a bowl of cush cush.... Dere's plenty we can do." Out and about, they are greeted warmly, their time and generosity met with affectionate mutuality as they take okra and tea to a sick friend, pick up shrimp, and help pack food donations. At a final stop, Gran-moman reminds Petite Marie that "dere's always somethin' you can do," and they ride home to the sounds of zydeco just as the sun peeks out. Uroda's use of contrasting colors conveys the big power of small actions and the bolstering effect of community. Characters are portrayed with brown skin. An author's note and recipe conclude.

– Publisher's Weekly, Starred Review

Petite Marie is out of sorts. It's raining, and she is bored. Gran-moman doesn't lecture or sigh;
she simply models a loving example of kindness. Taking Petite Marie along, Gran-moman visits
a neighbor who has been sick, does some grocery shopping, helps out at a food drive, pays her
respects at a graveyard, and makes cush cush, a traditional dish combining cornbread, milk, and
syrup. Gran-moman's day is spent in service to others, but Petite Marie sees how sharing love
brings fulfillment to Gran-moman as well. Spirits lifted, Petite Marie feels more sunny, even on
that rainy day. Uroda's illustrations drip with the raindrops and glow with the warmth. As Petite
Marie moves around the town with her grandmother, their loving bond is expressed through all
their interactions. An author's note explains more about the Louisiana Creole setting, history, and
lifestyle and identifies Gran-moman's speech patterns as Kouri-Vini. As Petite Marie recognizes
the interconnectedness of her community, she appreciates her grandmother's affection and
gentle lessons.

– Booklist