Like, um, Pickle Juice...

"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."

      So starts Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie by Julie Sternberg.  There's something pleasantly sweet and enduring about this little novel.  It's the perfect example of a writer taking childhood moments and expanding them in to a rich and well-woven story.  I may be reading it aloud to my sixth grader at home.  Why?  Because I think it's exactly the kind of "chapter book" that a sixth grader could write, if he or she wanted to write one!

     There's a sense of warmth and gentleness and humor woven throughout this tale.  And, I think it's a text that young readers and writers can connect to... simple, well-written, free verse.  Young readers will find the text accessible.  Young writers will say, "I think I can write something similar!"  It's charming. 

     I chose it because "pickle juice" is a favorite term used around our house.  You're so full of pickle juice!  You smell like pickle juice!  What's it in this chicken that makes it taste so good... um, pickle juice!   And while I solely chose it for the title... within its pages I found a delightful novel.  A great read aloud for young readers too.   I think it captures the spirit of childhood perfectly.