This book handles the difficult of food uncertainty and childhood poverty with sensitivity in ang age appropriate way. The story, along with cute illustrations depicts a friendship in which two girls help each other out... One is insecure about her physical abilities, the other is insecure about her next meal.
This would be a great kick-off for a school food drive. ( )

In this story Maddi confides in her friend that she does not have much food at home and Sophi has to decide whether she should keep the secret like Maddi asked or tell her mother. This story shows students that not everyone's home situations are the same and also that it is okay to break promises you make with someone if they are in danger. ( )

This book is about a pair of friends that live in two different worlds. One friend has a full fridge and one does not. You learn that you never know what people are going through and to accept everyone. This book is for ages 6-10. I found this book at the library, ( )

Sophia and Maddie are besties. They play every day in the nearby park and love their time together. Then, one day, when the friends get hungry, Sophie visits Maddie’s house to realize that she has an almost empty fridge. Maddie asks Sophia to promise not to talk about it to anyone. That dinner, Sophia keeps thinking about her fully stocked vs. Maddie’s empty one. Finally, she gets an idea and packs some fish for Maddie. Unfortunately, the friends find rotten fish in the backpack the next day. Sophia tried with an egg, resulting in the same. But did Sophia give any palatable food to Maddie?
We picked this book for its blurb. Hunger is a serious issue; ten percent of the world’s population stays hungry daily. Making children aware of this is crucial. And this book fulfills it through the heartwarming story of Sophia and Maddie that children can easily comprehend. In addition, the illustrations are fun and vibrant.
Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt is a delightfully illustrated, must-read story of friendship and compassion that can help begin a classroom conversation on hunger and food waste. ( )

Hungry after playing in the park, Sofia opens the fridge in Maddi’s apartment and finds only a carton of milk inside. Maddi explains that her mom doesn’t have enough money for much else. Sofia is surprised but promises to keep her friend’s secret.

Sofia is troubled. Her family’s fridge is filled to the brim with food. Even their dog gets treats each night as the family sits down to dinner. She decides to help Maddi but discovers the hard way that some foods, such as fish and eggs, do not travel well in a backpack. After several days, knowing her friend is going hungry is too much to bear, and Sofia decides to tell her mom Maddi’s secret. Speaking up releases Sofia from her burden of secrecy. The adults respond appropriately to the challenge, allowing Sofia and Maddi to go back to being kids. Though undeniably purposive, 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 note at the end offers suggestions for helping others in need.

A thoughtful and well-executed look at the challenge of childhood hunger. (author’s note) (Picture book. 5-8)

-Kirkus Review