Polly Horvath's Everything on a Waffle has charmed readers with its quirky characters and heartfelt narrative. Its humor and poignant moments resonate well, particularly with younger audiences. However, some readers feel the plot is predictable and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's an engaging story with a unique voice that appeals to many.

Readers who delight in quirky, heartwarming narratives such as Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Holes by Louis Sachar will enjoy Everything on a Waffle by Polly Horvath. Ideal for middle-grade audiences, this book is perfect for those who appreciate themes of resilience, community, and the unconventional.

In Polly Horvath’s Everything on a Waffle, 11-year-old Primrose recounts her parents disappearing during a typhoon in Coal Harbour, British Columbia. Unwavering in her belief they are alive, she faces skepticism from the townspeople and battles a counselor determined to place her in foster care. Supported by her quirky uncle and a kind café owner, Primrose endures a series of mishaps while holding onto hope for her parents' return. This book addresses themes of parental absence, injury, and the death of an elderly person.

Coal Harbour, British Columbia / Contemporary

Humorous / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Bittersweet / Playful

- Everything on a Waffle won the 2001 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award for Fiction, an accolade recognizing excellence in children's literature.
- The novel was a National Book Award finalist in 2001, further attesting to its notable impact in the realm of children's literature.
- Polly Horvath, the author, is known for her unique storytelling style, often blending whimsical elements with poignant themes, as evidenced in Everything on a Waffle.

Polly Horvath

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Chapters 1-6

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Chapters 12-15

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Everything on a Waffle

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