Nine-year-old Alanna cooks a delicious sauce with her Nana using ingredients grown in their garden. As the sauce’s aroma spreads out the window and reaches passersby, Nana invites them all back for dinner.

“Is there enough?” Alanna asked, “I’m sure there cannot be. Is there enough for all of us, But mostly lots for me?”

Alanna is worried they’ll soon run out of food if Nana keeps inviting people to dinner! But Nana does not seem worried and assures Alanna all will be well. Why is Nana so confident they’ll have enough food? What’s in Alanna’s Secret Sauce? is a delightful tale of community and sharing, with just a dash of magic for all to enjoy. Warning: Do not read while hungry.

Sarah Jane Conklin's profile page

Venus Angelica's profile page

Sarah Jane Conklin - As an artist and a writer, Sarah Jane is inspired by the scenic beauty where she has lived, including her birthplace, St. John’s, Newfoundland, and her seasonal home in Skiff Lake, New Brunswick. She now lives in Fall River, Nova Scotia with her husband, and spends her days painting, writing, and playing with her grandchildren.

Venus Angelica is an OCAD University alumni who was born in Toronto and now calls Fredericton, New Brunswick her home. Venus loves to create a sense of curiosity in her illustrative work, and hopes to spark some creativity, wonder, and positive development in her audience. Inspired by the classics like Suess, Silverstein, and Where's Waldo," she grew up on a steady diet of fantastical picture books. Her fondest memories are of her parents reading to her in silly voices, creating a sense of safety, connection, and fun before bedtime.