After Aunt Polly passes away, the protagonist, Alice Anderson, works to come to terms with the death of her aunt as she tries to solve the mystery of the secret pic crust recipe. Working with her friend Charlie, the two crime-solvers follow leads to find out who is responsible for breaking into the pic shop and catnapping Aunt Polly's cantankerous cat, LARDO.
The characters are somewhat developed-and the one that everyone loves to hate is the Alice's mother. Mrs. Anderson is a spiteful and jealous person who always thinks the worst of everyone. Although she sees to have a change of heart at the end of the book, one has to question what prompted the change.
Immediately upon finishing the story, I had thought that if I could change anything about the story, it would be the ending. I didn't agree with how things were wrapped up and it felt a little rushed and unrealistic. However, after some reflection, the ending feels completely plausible and rather more realistic to the regular fairy tale ending. I like the fact that what ultimately makes the character happy and fulfilled is something other than a traditional 'find the prince' type of ending.
Some themes from the story:
- Be proud with how you are and embrace your natural talents for the joy of it rather than what is to be gained.
- Friendship
3/4/14