Personal Response:
I give this book four out of five stars. I really enjoyed reading this book; it was really fun. The author, Sharon Creech, created a good story line and didn’t try to extend it into a long book. I have read most of this author’s other books, and I recommend her books. I liked how the author was able to incorporate a good life lesson while keeping the book itself very simple. I definitely recommend this book.
Plot:
Granny Torrelli Makes Soup is a realistic fiction book about a young girl, Rosie, making soup with her grandmother. Rosie’s best friend, Bailey, is blind, and this book tells the story of their close friendship. They work through the new girl on the block trying to butt into their friendship, and come out even closer in the end. During the entirety of this book, Granny Torrelli, Rosie, and Bailey are making soup and pasta for a big pasta party at the end of the book where everyone comes together.
Characterization:
Rosie is just like her grandmother; she is extremely stubborn and has the best friend in the world. She is very close with her grandmother, and enjoys spending time with her in the kitchen. Bailey is a tall, strong, young man who was born blind. He took this struggle and overcame it humbly and powerfully. Rosie and Bailey are truly best friends.
Setting:
The majority of this novel takes place in present-day Pickburr Street. The time setting of this book is important because of how advanced our medicine and technology is today, so Bailey, who is blind, can still live a somewhat normal life. The setting to the story is important because Rosie and Bailey grew up living next to each other, but if they didn’t then they probably would not be friends.
Thematic Connection:
The theme of this story is that all of life’s obstacles cannot overcome the powerful bond of lifelong friends. Rosie has to deal with the new girl fawning all over Bailey, but in the end they stay just as close of friends as they did before, if not closer. I can relate to this because I have a few really close friends, and we have had to endure many difficulties in the years of our friendships.
Audience:
The novel would be appropriate for audiences of all ages. This book would be helpful to both genders because it tells of the importance of having a good friend in life. Everyone needs a friend, and somebody to be there for them; everyone needs love.