Saturdays and Teacakes

Every Christmas I find myself reaching for the same book, “Saturdays and Tea Cakes” by Lester Laminack, illustrated by Chris Soentpiet. It has become my quiet tradition. It is the one story that still slows me down and reminds me what matters.

Today, with the term winding down and after yesterday’s cookies and desserts, I read it again to my class. Watching their faces as the imagery took over reminded me why I return to this book year after year. Lester writes with such care. Even the simplest moment becomes something you can feel. I had the privilege of meeting him in person and he was as kind and generous as his writing.

This story brings me back to my own longing. The wish that I had more time with my grandmother. The boy in the story helps his Mammaw every Saturday and the love between them fills every page. When he says, “I will not ever forget,” it aches in the best way because you know love like that shapes you forever.

For my students, this book is a masterclass in narrative writing. Strong imagery. Figurative language. Memories layered with emotion and meaning. For me, it is a reminder that kindness, helping others, and family stories are never small. They leave marks on us.