I really admire Lois Brandt for writing about those in need without making this an ‘issue’ book. It’s first and foremost a story—and a good one.” —Kirby Larson, Newbery Honor–winning author, Hattie Big Sky
"Vin Vogel’s playful and detailed digital tablet and pen illustrations make the story come alive . . . and will draw readers of all ages into this important story about friendship, problem solving, and how and when to break a promise." —Karen Kline, pscreviews.org
"This book brings awareness to the plight of hunger in the United States. For children who live comfortably, this story provides an entry point to begin to understand and empathize with others who are struggling in some way." —Megan McCaffre, wowlit.org
"The illustrations are well done and add the right emotion to the story in all the right ways… a wonderful read aloud and will draw young listeners in. This is a great read especially for kids ages 4 and up." —bookwormforkids.blogspot.co.il
"This title is notable. The bright, friendly illustrations soften the topic while still conveying the characters’ difficult feelings, such as worry and embarrassment. Gentle, age-appropriate humor releases the tension, keeping readers engaged as Sofia discovers how to best help her friend. . . . A thoughtful and well-executed look at the challenge of childhood hunger." —Kirkus Reviews
"The single greatest achievement of Maddi's Fridge is [that it] delivers its message directly, through the intriguing story embellished with artful illustrations, without preaching or political commentary. Maddi's Fridge is a book that works on a child's awareness level, with no intervening adult judgements to cloud the basic reaction of human compassion. It also tells children exactly what they can do to help. Maddi's Fridge is a wonderful book for all kinds of children, whether they are hungry or not." —Midwest Book Review
"Filled with colourful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others." —toronto4kids.com
"In her debut picture book, Brandt addresses an important issue: childhood hunger. . . . Vogel's digital illustrations portraying the smiling, wide-eyed girls in their city neighborhood are filled with warmth and a sense of community." —Linda L. Walkins, School Library Journal
"This book introduces a topic that is rarely explored in picture books, and it would be a welcome addition to larger picture book collections." —Melissa Morwood, BayViews
"Cartoon-style illustrations, depicting a vibrant and diverse city neighborhood, help soften the difficult issues raised . . . . Food insecurity, childhood hunger, and poverty are treated with tenderness and humor." —April Mazza, Booklist
"While the issue of childhood hunger is serious, the story is neither preachy nor patronizing. It is instead silly and sweet and strong. It is brilliant and appealing. That’s because it is, at heart, a story about friends. It’s about Maddi helping Sofia climb the wall, and Sofia helping Maddi get enough to eat." —catherinespascha.com
"Maddi's Fridge is a compassionate, hopeful, giving, funny picture book about friendship and real world family issues. A rare gem!" —Carrie Charley Brown, writersrumpus.com
"This is a big-issue book, handled delicately. It’s not preachy or judgmental, and has a sweet story about friendship first and foremost. The funny parts with yucky food hidden in a backpack provide some levity in what could be a very serious book. It provides a great starting point for discussions about hunger, charity, and talking to an adult when something seems wrong with a little friend. The illustrations are fun and the language is accessible. A perfectly sweet book about a serious topic. Very well done!" —Denise Mealy, thechildrensbookreview.com
