Our Corner Grocery Store
Starred Review. Kindergarten-Grade 3—This sweet story takes readers through young Anna Maria's Saturday as she helps her grandparents in their neighborhood store. The day is special for its simplicity; the book is special for its rich evocation of the delights of a little Italian market and the loving relationships between a girl and her grandparents. Beingessner's folksy illustrations and Schwartz's easy text fit well together and are filled with details. The fresh fruits and vegetables are lined up on wooden racks in front of the store, Nonno hand prints small signs to display among the produce, and fresh bread is delivered from a bakery in blue-and-white striped bags that Anna Maria sorts on the shelves. Nonna prepares a dinner of stuffed mushrooms in her kitchen behind the shop, and the girl and her friend draw on the sidewalks with chalk and share frozen treats from the store after dinner. The compelling visual and verbal descriptions make readers feel a part of the activities, as though they are living out one of those idyllic Saturdays. Reading this book is as appealing as spending a day inMister Rogers' Neighborhood—both provide a gentle and welcome escape. Share this story during storytime and encourage children to talk about other places or memories that make them feel happy.—Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, MECopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.