Sophie's Squash Goes to School

Reviewed by: Theresa Bonnevie Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 7, 2016

Review

Another winning story with Sophie's two squash friends (Sophie's Squash-2013). The two "butternut" friends join her as she goes to school for the first time. Sophie is less than enthusiastic with what she encounters. She doesn't like much of school, from the other kids, to the milk to even the chairs. When a little boy named Steven makes several attempts to become friends, Sophie clearly lets him know, that she is NOT interested. Sophie's negative attitude toward school, the other kids, and especially Steven seem to go on for a long time without resolution. After Sophie has to put her squash friends to rest in the garden, she goes to school alone. After a difficult event in school, Sophie is even more miserable. Steven, who is incredibly kind and patient, leaves her a thoughtful gift that helps to finally turn things around. At last, Sophie understands the importance of having friends and explains to Steven that sometimes it just takes time to grow a friend. The watercolor illustrations are colorful and descriptive. The artwork of the unhappy, unfriendly little girl who finally gets a smile toward the end of the story is offset by the range of emotions given to Steven, the hero of the story. Steven's gentle persistence and creative approach to gaining her friendship, give the story a heartwarming touch.

Overall Book Score: very good