Kids being picky eaters is normal. They’re just learning to make their own choices about food. While it can be tough for parents, this phase usually passes as kids slowly try new things and find what they like. With some patience and gentle encouragement, their tastes will grow over time. As a parent, we want to help our kids any way that we can! With this cute new book, it can help persuade them to try something new in a fun and creative way!
Kelli Jarman’s *Fergie Hates Veggies* offers a delightful and relatable exploration of a common childhood challenge: the refusal to eat vegetables. Through the journey of Fergie, a determined little character with a stubborn aversion to all things green and healthy, Jarman crafts a story that resonates with both children and their often-exasperated parents.
The narrative centers around Fergie’s attempts to avoid eating vegetables at all costs, using humor to navigate dinnertime struggles. Each page brings a new adventure as Fergie goes to great lengths to convince others—and perhaps even herself—that vegetables simply aren’t for her. The dialogue is fun and lively, helping young readers easily relate to Fergie’s problem.
What makes this different from other kids’ books is its mix of humor and heart. Jarman doesn’t just show funny moments of a kid refusing to eat; she also weaves in lessons about trying new things, being open to change, and eating healthy, all without being pushy. Fergie feels like a real kid—her stubbornness is balanced by her curiosity, which helps her grow in a way that feels natural. These are lessons that we as adults could learn too!
The illustrations fit the story perfectly. They’re bright and full of emotion, showing how Fergie reacts to the colorful veggies around her. The artwork makes both the veggies and Fergie’s funny dislike for them come to life, making it a hit with kids.
While the book is clearly aimed at a younger audience, there’s enough charm here to make parents smile as well. It skillfully taps into the battle between kids and vegetables in a way that is both fresh and entertaining. For parents facing their own mealtime negotiations, Fergie’s story may even provide a playful tool for encouraging their little ones to be a bit more adventurous with their plates.
Be sure and try out the fun recipes in the book! What a great way to bond with your children and teach them about making healthy choices for our bodies, helping them learn about foods and their way around the kitchen. And you get some 1:1 time with your kiddos!
About the Author:
Kelli Jarman is a global nutrition coach known for her work with women suffering from menopausal weight gain, as well as investing her time working with, and volunteering with, adults, youth, and children for the past 30 years. She has also spent the last 7 years teaching her business model to entrepreneurs across the world that want to grow a business in health and nutrition. Her passion for creating happier and healthier families shines through in her writing, and “Fergie Hates Veggies” is a testament to her commitment to the young and old alike.
Do you have a homeschool group or scout group that you would like to have Kelli read to? Kelli is available for book readings, and appearances at schools, libraries, and events. For media inquiries, review copies, appearances, or interview requests, please contact Kelli at 918.521.5321, or [email protected]
*The book is available for purchase everywhere books are sold, in paperback, e-book, and Kindle.
