Best Friends Forever?

“Bailey, who is usually so nice, Bailey, my neighbor, my friend, my buddy, my pal for my whole life, knowing me better than anybody, that Bailey, that Bailey I am so mad at right now, that Bailey, I hate him today.” –Rosie

Rosie lives right next door to her best friend, Bailey. They have been best friends for forever and have done everything together since they were little. Rosie started being Bailey’s helper when it became apparent that he was visually impaired. Now they are eleven, and Rosie might be starting to have deeper feelings for her best friend. When a new neighbor moves in Bailey starts spending a lot of time with her, and Rosie is not happy about it. The story is told in three parts- each part has its own theme.  In the first part her grandma asks her to make a meal with her, but Rosie has no idea what else Granny Torrelli has up her sleeve. While they cook, her grandma shares some secrets and recipes. Rosie is thrilled to have this time to have a heart to heart with one of her favorite people. Granny Torrelli sprinkles in stories of her childhood throughout the day, helping Rosie to see that we sometimes act out of jealousy and why it is important to let those feelings go. Will Rosie be able stop feeling jealous? Is there any way for Rosie and Bailey to get their friendship back? This book will touch your heart and make you laugh as you get to know these memorable characters.  

Granny Torelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech is a hilarious book that will make you want Granny Torrelli to be a part of your family. Not only does she know how to make some delicious meals, but her funny antics will crack you up. Granny Torrelli also serves up a side dish of wisdom to try to help Rosie see why jealousy is not the answer.  It is a super book for people of all ages and I think kids in fourth through eighth grade will especially relate to Rosie. The book touches on blindness, friendship, and how we see what is inside of ourselves. I could easily relate to the characters because each one has such a strong personality. I really like Rosie and think she has many qualities that make me want to be friends with her. Granny Torrelli makes you realize that jealousy gets you nowhere. The style is unique and I loved the short chapters! If you have not read this story, I highly recommend it. It just may make you want to cook soup, or any meal, with a family member and you will try to appreciate what you have.

“My Granny Torrelli says when you are angry with someone, so angry you are thinking hateful things, so angry maybe you want to punch them, then you should think of the good things about them, and the nice things they've said, and why you liked them in the first place.” Rosie, Granny Torrelli Makes Soup

Has anyone else read Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech? Or have you read another book by Sharon Creech?

Happy Reading! ~L