Cookie is the story of plain, timid Beaty Cookson. Beauty is a kind and ordinary girl with a lovely mother; however, she wishes that her life were different.
Beauty goes to a snotty private school, where all the girls think her name is ridiculous. Instead of calling her Beauty, the call her Ugly. Even worse, Beauty's dad can't seem to control his hurtful criticisms and uncontrolled rages. Even the smallest thing can set him off into a storm of shouting. Beauty and her mother try to placate him, but it becomes clear that nothing can make him accept his family as their imperfect selves. Together they discover a new hobby - baking cookies - and a new, better nickname is born.
When Beauty's dad spins out of control during her disastrous birthday party, Beauty's mom is ready to take the reins, and make a new life for herself and her daughter. This book addresses tough issues, like anger and family breakup, but it does it in a sweet and respectful way that gives hope rather than dread. You can't help but love Beauty and her mother, and author Jacqueline Wilson resists the temptation to demonize the angry father. I'm sure this charming book will be up for an award in the next year or two!
Realistic Fiction; family and friends
Grades 4-8
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