The Lemonade Crime

Evan and Jessie, brother and sister, struggle to find justice for someone they "know" stole their money. When they turn to their fourth-grade class to act as judge and jury, the difference between a fair trial and a fair outcome becomes evident. By matching the style of the prose with narration that is fluid and spare, Stina Nielsen allows the heart of the story to shine. With her subtle vocal differentiation, Evan and Jessie feel like real characters rather than characterizations. There isn't a false step in the story, as written or narrated. This is a sequel that stands alone, on its own two feet, without wobbling a bit. A.M.P. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine

November 1, 2011

Gr 3-5-Jacqueline Davies's The Lemonade Crime (2011) takes place just days after the conclusion of The Lemonade War (2007, both Houghton Mifflin). It's the beginning of a new school year and, due to younger sister Jessie skipping a grade, siblings Evan and Jessie are in the same fourth grade classroom. Tensions are high and become amplified when Evan and Jessie accuse fellow classmate Scott of stealing the money they earned from their lemonade stands. Where the first book focuses on math and economics, this title gives the legal system a fresh look as Scott is put on trial. Stina Nielsen skillfully narrates using subtle voice changes to portray each character and altering her tone to express emotions. Listeners will want to learn if justice will be served and if Jessie and Evan's recently repaired relationship will crumble. The short chapters are perfect for reluctant readers.-April Mazza, Wayland Public Library, MA

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.