1. The Lemonade War has direct correlations to standards in economics and personal finance. Each chapter begins with an explicit definition of a word related to these social studies areas. Then, the chapter illustrates that term with a kid-friendly situation in the plot of the story. It really brings economics to life!
2. The author changes perspective each chapter. Point-of-view and perspective is an important standard in the upper elementary grades. Reading a book that stays in first person limited but switches back and forth between the two main characters is a great opportunity to reinforce these skills.
3. Davies' figurative language game is strong! This book is chocked full of similes, metaphors, and idioms and even throws in an adage or two. Some of my favorites (featured in my Comprehension Packet) include, "It was like having a chestful of bats, beating their wings, fighting to get out." (p. 4) and "Evan was a straight shooter." (p. 17) And, of course, who could argue with Evan and Jessie's grandmother's voice in their heads warning, "Pride goeth before a fall?" (p. 96) So many teachable moments!
4. You can also easily integrate math into reading this novel, and my Comprehension Packet does just that. From calculating how many cups of lemonade the characters can make to how much money they earned on any particular day, there are math problems scattered all through the book. I often catch my students checking behind the math or arguing about the way the characters solved a problem.
5. Last, but not least, who doesn't love a book or lesson that calls for a food and/or drink treat? Once you finish the book, you must enjoy lemonade together. That's a non-negotiable. Even if you're like me and just buy the cans so you don't have to squeeze it or mix it X 24ish. That smile says it all!
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