The cookie vote

The kids in Mr. Tiffin's class are dreaming up ideas for improving their state. But as they debate which recommendation should become a law, tempers flare. Naming an official state cookie narrowly beats a mandate for a daily three-hour recess and another requiring "everyone to adopt orphaned puppies." During a class field trip to the state capitol, their representative meets with them and explains the process of making a law. After the students' final vote on the type of cookie, their representative introduces their proposal to the legislature as a bill. The kids follow it through debates and negotiations until it becomes a law. The latest entry in the Mr. Tiffin's Classroom picture-book series presents a basic legislative function in ways that elementary school children can understand. And for kids wondering whether their state even has a state cookie, an appended note clarifies that and offers an Apple Cinnamon Maple Syrup Oatmeal Cookie recipe. Created using gouache, matte medium, and pencil, Karas' illustrations are expressive and beguiling. An original approach for teaching civics to elementary-school children.

Mr. Tiffin's students brainstorm an idea to turn into a bill in anticipation of a trip to the state capitol. After a vote, the kids decide that their state needs an official cookie. But what kind of cookie? Though Jeremy initially proposed the maple syrup cookie--an ingredient their state is famous for--the kids have other ideas. Some want triple chocolate fudge; others champion apple cinnamon maple syrup oatmeal. Feeling that the class has strayed too far from his original vision, Jeremy joins the triple chocolate fudge faction. The divided class heads to the capitol building, where Representative Mariam Noor gives them a tour; finally, they hold a vote. In a nail-biting moment, Jeremy is the last to vote--apple cinnamon maple syrup oatmeal is the winner! The idealistic Jeremy explains that he didn't vote for his favorite, but for which cookie best represented the group. The class's idea becomes a real law when Rep. Noor introduces the bill at the state capitol. Karas' distinctive, mellow gouache and pencil illustrations depict energetic, engaged diverse children and detailed background scenes. Mr. Tiffin is light-skinned, Rep. Noor has light brown skin and wears a headscarf, and Jeremy is brown-skinned and curly-haired. Detailed backmatter about several state cookies offers kid-friendly context, with a cookie recipe that's sure to please. This is a delicious addition to the series that stands alone as an excellent democratic primer. Educational, accessible, and fun.(Picture book. 5-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.