My Rice is Best by Selina Brown
Today’s blog features a Q&A with Selina Brown, author of My Rice is Best, a colourful celebration of food and friendship!
Can you tell us where the idea for this story came from?
The idea for My Rice is Best! came from the playful, long-standing debate between Caribbeans and Africans about who makes the best rice! I loved the idea of exploring that rivalry through the eyes of children – turning it into a joyful celebration of food, family, and culture. Food is such a big part of how we express pride in our roots, and I wanted to capture that sense of warmth and tradition in a story children could connect with.
Each child has a favourite dish, native to their culture – did you have to do any research into specialty rice dishes?
A lot of it came from lived experience – growing up in a Jamaican household, rice and peas were a staple. But I also spoke to friends from different backgrounds and did some extra research to make sure the dishes represented in the book were authentic and meaningful to different communities. I wanted children from all over the world to see a little piece of their story reflected through the dishes.
The illustrations are so bold and beautiful – what were your thoughts upon seeing them for the first time?
I was blown away! Maxwell Oginni did an incredible job. His illustrations captured the joy, pride, and energy I had in my mind while writing the story – and then took it to another level. Seeing the characters come to life with so much expression and vibrancy was emotional. It’s everything I could have hoped for and more.
What do you hope young readers will learn from reading My Rice is Best?
I hope young readers come away with a real sense of pride in who they are and where they come from. I want them to see that our differences are something to celebrate, not shy away from – and that food can be a wonderful way to share our cultures and connect with others. Most of all, I hope it sparks conversations at home about family traditions, favourite meals, and the stories behind them.
How did you find writing a picture book – was it something that came naturally to you?
Writing picture books feels very natural to me. I love the challenge of telling a rich, layered story in such a small number of words. It’s like poetry – every line has to count. I think growing up loving stories and working in media helped me understand rhythm, pacing, and how to create something that feels alive when read aloud. Picture books allow me to blend imagination, emotion, and culture all in one – it’s such a special space to write in.
Are you writing anything else at the moment?
Yes! I’m working on a few exciting projects. I’m writing more picture books that continue to celebrate culture, family, and everyday magic, and I’m also moving into middle grade, which is a new and exciting challenge. There’s lots in the pipeline, and I can’t wait to share more soon!
Do you have a favourite rice dish?
I have to say rice and peas – it’s the dish that feels like home to me. But it has to be made the traditional way, with coconut milk, thyme, and a scotch bonnet pepper bubbling away in the pot! It’s the taste of Sunday dinners, celebrations, and family love.
