Spaghetti Smiles

A crazy Italian joint makes a tasty read! Reading in the mixed-up Italian restaurant is one of Jake’s favorite things to do! Whether they play with food or dig into a good book, Jake and his uncle always have an amusing and delicious time. Juggling ravioli, bowling with mozzarella balls, or playing spaghetti pick-up sticks are just a few of the fun games Jake and his uncle invent. As much as Jake enjoys these culinary amusements, he could just as easily devour a good read. When his uncle’s restaurant needs a neighbor, Jake must find the perfect fit. But who is willing to work next to such a crazy joint? Filled with reading, ravioli, and resolve, this is a story for any family who plays and reads together.

Margo Sorenson attributes her love of books and reading to her time spent in Spain and Italy as a child. After receiving her bachelor of arts in history from the University of California and her teaching credential at California State University, Sorenson taught middle school and high school for almost two decades. In an effort to encourage and inspire young readers to broaden their worldviews and imagine new ideas and perspectives, Sorenson began to write full-time for both children and young adults. Having written nearly thirty books, she is a well-seasoned, award-winning author who was named a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award in Young Adult Fiction and has earned recommendations from Multicultural Review. Sorenson is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Children’s Literature Network, the Children’s Literature Council of Southern California, and the National Forensic League’s coaches alumni group. Sorenson volunteers for her local church; the Boys and Girls Club; A Better Chance Foundation; the Junior Leagues of Palm Springs, Minneapolis, Honolulu, and Orange County; and the California Youth Soccer Association. An avid reader, Sorenson also enjoys playing golf, riding her bicycle, watching baseball, spending time with her grandchildren, traveling, and hearing from her readers. She lives with her husband in La Quinta, California.