I really loved this story. The summary is perfect, it's truly "charming." I loved how Ellie and her friends were able to make a real difference with practical and creative solutions, even when it seemed impossible at first. There was some interesting side plot with Nina and I absolutely adored Bubbie. The recipes were a nice addition as well.

I'd certainly recommend Ellie's Deli: Wishing on Matzo Ball Soup! to readers young and old.

Ellie's family owns a deli, but lately its not profiting anymore since there arr fewer and fewer costumers. One day she overheard her parents talked about selling the deli and move on. She's only a 11 y.o, her parents aren't even telling her about this important matter. But she loved the deli so much and determined to save it.

This is the type of story that I really loved when I was in elementary school. Ambitious kid trying to find solutions where even the adults seemed to give up. Combined with meaningful friendship and slight awareness about mental health. Not to mention the illustrations here and there and cool recipes at the end of almost every chapter. 3rd grade me would enjoy this soo much. But since I'm a adult, of course the reading experience became wholly different. Overall it's nice but not very impressive.

I love the Jewish representation in this book. I will definitely be recommending it be purchased for circulation at my library. It's such a great book, especially for young readers who may just be exploring Judaism and what it means to them.

Labeled as children's fiction but I would say it's more appropriate for middle grade. Great Jewish rep!

Eleanor's goals journal is perfection. Great advice for kids, and adults too - realize that worrying never helps for example.
Text on the page
Recipes included

Ellie navigates friendship, family and small business ownership while balancing school work.

Lisa Greenwald's Ellie's Deli:Wishing on Matzo Ball Soup is exactly the kind of book that my middle school self would have wished for over a pot of steaming soup. Ellie finds out that her family's beloved deli may be closing and she is determined to do whatever she can to help it stay open. She and her best friend hatch a plan to revamp the deli and she hopes with all her might that she can help her family reach this goal.

Ellie's relationship with her Bubbie reminds me so much of my fondest memories of my Gram, and the recipes for the foods of me childhood- from matzo ball soup to blintzes to ruggelach- had my mouth watering. This is a story that beautifully depicts Jewish culture and traditions. It is the perfect book to add to a middle school library.