In the years prior to the Civil War, a Black man found a way to make ice cream more accessible to the masses.Augustus "Gus" Jackson was born in 1808 to a poor but free African American family in Philadelphia. He enjoyed preparing meals and at age 12 found a job helping the cooking staff in the White House, working his way up to becoming one of them by the time he was 17. He learned to make ice cream and, several years later, took his skills back to Philadelphia, where he opened his own shop, which became popular with customers. For the first time, people other than the wealthy could enjoy ice cream. While others also opened ice cream parlors, Gus looked for a way to make his ice cream faster and to ensure it would last longer so he could sell it to other stores. Once he achieved his goals, Gus was even able to ship his popular treat without it melting. Gus' family joined him in his business as it grew. This lively narrative shines a light on a little-known story of how an African American inventor impacted American food culture. The emphasis here is on his abilities and perseverance to make his vision a reality. Mallett's colorful digital paintings add to the generally upbeat tone of the storytelling. (This book was reviewed digitally.)A charming-and tasty-slice of history. (ice cream recipe, afterword, sources) (Picture-book biography. 4-8)

The subject of Armand and Freeman’s collaboration, Black ice cream vendor Augustus Jackson (1808–1852), began his life in Philadelphia, where slavery was outlawed. After cooking regularly for his family, Augustus decided at age 12 to support them further, using his kitchen know-how to find work. He applied and was hired at the White House, and by 17 he’d earned the title of cook and developed a particular expertise: making ice cream for White House guests. One day, he developed a new dream—making ice cream that all could enjoy—and opened an ice cream parlor in his hometown. By adding rock salt to the ice that froze the confection, he started conjuring ice cream in half the time, a change that allowed him to sell the product “near and far.” Text takes a reminiscing tone, while digitally painted period illustrations shine light on every face in this book about “Philly’s original Ice Cream Man.” Back matter includes an ice cream recipe and afterword. Ages 4–8. (Jan.)

K-Gr 3 —This picture book biography covers the story of Augustus (Gus) Jackson, the Black cook who innovated the modern recipe and production of ice cream in the 19th century. Jackson grew up in Pennsylvania and moved to Washington, DC, as a youth to work at the White House. There he lived alongside enslaved servants, a fact that is plainly stated, but not significantly expanded upon. After rising to the role of cook, Jackson perfected the art of creating ice cream, a favorite dish among the presidents and their elite guests. Determined to bring this sumptuous dessert to the masses, Jackson opened his own ice cream shop. He developed a method of churning the sweet mixture using rock salt and ice, in order to preserve it longer for keeping and transportation. Though he is often considered the "inventor of ice cream," the authors state in an informative afterword that versions of the treat date back to ancient China. Mallett's painterly digital illustrations are lively and bright. They depict a smiling Jackson wearing a flamboyant hat, pushing his ice cream cart around town to the delight of a diverse group of people. The rhymes he calls out ("Ice Cream! Ice Cream! Quite a Treat! Come smile awhile and beat the heat!") are written across rolls of parchment on pages that appear aged with slight discoloration. Back matter includes a recipe for homemade ice cream, as well as an afterword and bibliography. VERDICT A strongly recommended book about Black ingenuity and entrepreneurship.—Clara Hendricks