Everything on a Waffle (Newbery Honor book) [B0207]

2002 HC first Scholastic print in excellent condition. The funny, bittersweet story of a young heroine who manages to hold onto hope despite the odds. Primrose Squarp is sure her parents did not perish at sea during a terrible storm, but try convincing the other residents of Coal Harbour on that score. For all practical purposes, at least for the time being, Primrose is an orphan, and there's no great clamoring of prospective adopters. The town council is able to locate a relative, Uncle Jack, who reluctantly takes Primrose into his care. But true sanctuary can always be found at a restaurant called The Girl in the Swing, where everything?including lasagna?is served on a waffle, and where the proprietor, Miss Bowzer, offers a willing ear, as well as sage advice. Through a mixture of eccentric humor and probing philosophy, author Polly Horvath makes Primrose's search for peace and understanding a most memorable one.

From recent Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "I haven't read this book in years, but I remember telling people it was my favorite book as a preteen. It gave me Eleanor Oliphant vibes, and I love that everything was wrapped up in a neat bow at the end. Perfection."; "Weird and whimsical and occasionally shocking, yet deep and touching when I least expected it."; "This is a really terrific middle grade book that I used to read to my 4th grade classes."; "Not only is it a fun read, but it includes waffle recipes throughout!"