Seaweed Sid & The Sushi Squad 

Round & About

Alexandra Burke joins local children to create the world’s first sushi recipe book designed by kids. 

Alexandra Burke has helped local children create the world’s first sushi recipe book designed by kids.  

Earlier this year, youngsters aged between six and 11 gathered at Jessie’s Art Shed in Eynsham, where they spent a day sketching sushi characters including Seaweed Sid and Unicone. Each doodle came with a personality, favourite activities and a recipe idea. These colourful, charmingly imperfect creations have been transformed into a family cookbook: Seaweed Sid & The Sushi Squad. 

The project was supported by Japanese food brand Yutaka and brought together artist Jessie Whealy, chef Yuki Gomi and singer Alexandra, who joined the children to help turn their quirky characters into simple family recipes. The result is a playful practical book showing that making sushi can be child’s play. 

It’s also part of a much wider trend. New UK research reveals family kitchens are changing, with 89% of parents saying they’re moving away from classic bakes towards healthier, more adventurous meals. While flapjacks, rice crispy cakes and sausage rolls are slipping off the menu, fresh pasta, stir-fry noodles and sushi are becoming firm family favourites. Parents say they value dishes that are nutritious, creative, and fun to make together. 

Jessie Whealy said: “The kids led the way – they weren’t afraid to get imaginative, and their energy shines through on every page of the book.” 

Seaweed Sid & The Sushi Squad is free to download now at yutaka.london/seaweed-sid-recipe-book