Granny Torrelli Makes Soup

I attempted to read Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech to a group of students (Grades 3-5) in our summer library program.  Since our program is focusing on food, nutrition, and cooking, I thought this would be a great chapter book to share with the students!  Unfortunately, as I began reading the book, heads laid on tables, talking ensued, glances were directed toward the clock, and facial expressions of disappointment were displayed.  The students seemed interested in who the characters were but lost interest during the flashbacks.  So, I gave up and decided to read the book for myself instead.

The 141-page chapter book begins with Rosie being upset with her best friend, a boy named Bailey (this is another reason why I selected the book, it has a boy and girl as the main characters).  Rosie's grandmother (Granny Torrelli) sees she is upset and tries to coax her into telling why she is upset.  Rosie refuses to tell Granny Torrelli what is wrong and continues to talk about how much she hates Bailey.  As the conversation between Granny Torrelli and Rosie continues, they prepare homemade chicken zuppa (soup).  This may be why the students lost interest . . . Rosie takes too long to tell why she is mad at Bailey.  But as I finished the book, I understood that Creech (the author) is telling the story of how the friends' relationship grew and informing the reader of Granny Torrelli's childhood. 

If the students could of held on a little longer, they would have found out why Bailey and Rosie's relationship is so important!  The students would have heard even more interesting stories from and about Granny Torrelli.  The students woud have also learned that even though our grandparents seem "old", our grandparents have had some of the same experiences, thoughts, and emotions that we have today.  Additionally, the students would have realized how important it is for us to spend time cooking in the kitchen with family.  Not only do you learn how to cook, but a bond is formed through conversations during the cooking process.

I think this book would of been more fitting for a book club or literture circle of fifth-grade girls, instead of a group of boys and girls who may or may not have been forced to attend a summer library program!  Believe it or not, the students have not asked me one thing about that chapter book we started.  Hopefully, I will find another chapter book that peaks their interest from the beginning . . . any suggestions?

For more information about Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech visit http://www.sharoncreech.com/novels/12.asp.