Philomel
What happens when the lemons life dishes are cancer cells invading a child's body?
Author-illustrator Patricia Polacco's "The Lemonade Club" gently answers in this tale about two fifth-grade girls' friendship with their inspirational teacher, Miss Wichelman. When Marilyn is diagnosed with leukemia, Traci and the teacher begin the titular club to support her "? a club that ultimately will buoy Miss Wichelman, as well.
While a teacher sharing her fears with students seems a little unbelievable, Polacco's human story digs to the heart, treating its characters and readers as adults. Her watercolor-y illustrations appeal, perhaps even more than the text. Recommended.
"?Emily Jerman
