Rosemary Wells
Yoko
Hyperion, 1998
Yoko's morning begins with her mother lovingly packing a homemade sushi lunchbox (would that we were all so lucky!). Morning in Mrs. Jenkin's class passes quickly, and soon it's lunchtime. Rosemary Wells lists every child's food, from Fritz' meatball grinder to Doris' squeeze cheese on white bread. Predictably, Yoko's ethnic lunch becomes the object of unwanted, disapproving attention. "Yuck-o-rama!" seems to be the consensus. At recess, Mrs. Jenkins tries to reassure Yoko, expressing hopefully that the children will forget the lunch incident. But nothing changes at snack time when Yoko's azuki bean ice cream becomes the target. Fortunately, Mrs. Jenkins has a plan, International Food Day. Yoko's sushi doesn't get the immediate attention it should, but hungry Timothy is won over. By day's end, the two are busy creating an eclectic menu for their imaginary restaurant.
I am reminded of a recent study about how one friend can make all the difference. It does for Yoko.
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