Maddi’s Fridge

Summary:

With humor and warmth, this children’s picture book raises awareness about poverty and hunger

Best friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia’s fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi’s house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she’ll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge. Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others. A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on antihunger groups, is also included.  (Summary and cover courtesy of goodreads.com)

Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review courtesy of the publisher.

Review:

This book does a fantastic job addressing a complex topics that can be sensitive and confusing to kids.  In addition to the principle of scarcity of food, I think what is really impressive about the story is that Brandt is also talk about how some secrets should be shared even if it feels like you might be betraying your friend.  This isn’t an easy topic to cover and it will prompt good conversation between adult and child.

The other thing I really like at the end of the book is that it gives recommendations for ways that kids can get involved with helping fight hunger!  Definitely recommended.

Rating: 5 stars!

Who should read it? Anyone who would like to introduce the principle that people may not have the same things to their kids.