Sunday, July 3, 2011

Book Review: Like Pickle Juice On A Cookie

By Julie Sternberg
Illustrated by Matthew Cordell
Published by Amulet Books/ Abrams
Released on March 1st, 2011
Ages 8-10
Source: publisher for review
4 stars- I really liked it

I had a bad August.

A very bad August.

As bad as pickle juice on a cookie.

As bad as a spider web on your leg.

As bad as the black parts on a banana.
I hope your August was better.

I really do.

When Eleanor's beloved babysitter, Bibi, has to move away to take care of her ailing father, Eleanor must try to bear the summer without Bibi and prepare for the upcoming school year. Her new, less-than-perfect babysitter just isn't up to snuff, and she doesn't take care of things like Bibi used to. But as the school year looms, it's time for new beginnings. Eleanor soon realizes that she will always have Bibi, no matter how far away she is.

Written in a lyrical style with thoughtful and charming illustrations throughout, this remarkable debut novel tells a poignant story of friendship and the bittersweet feelings of growing up.

Eleanor's fresh voice makes this debut book by Julie Sternberg a fun, enjoyable read. Eleanor is learning to cope with losing her best sitter she's had for the last few years, Bibi, who's moving to FL. Not only does Eleanor learn to cope with her moving away, but she's entering 3rd grade and has to learn to be open to a new babysitter.

I loved the way Julie captured the emotions and changes Eleanor is learning to deal with. That's a lot for a young child to cope with and Ellie's story is one other young readers will be able to relate to. Eleanor is such a delightful, fresh new character. Her honesty and openness to her thoughts and feelings made it very easy for me to understand her.

I loved the flow of the story, and the illustrations by Matthew Cordell helped bring Eleanor's story to life. I enjoyed this book and I'd recommend picking it up. It's the perfect book for kids 7 years old & older to read as part of their summer reading programs.
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~