Ms. Ice Sandwich

A really, really adorable short story about a 4th grader boy who gets infatuated with a lady working at the sandwich preparation aisle in the grocery store.

The story covers a time in the protagonist's life when he experiences a turning point. Despite being so short, due to this particular moment in time being so (gently) tumultuous the short story manages to feel whole and rounded.

I enjoyed the protagonist's narration a lot, I loved his personality and insightful reasoning and healthy emotional regulation. It felt both childlike and fitting for this kind of personality type belonging to a slightly neglected yet smart and kind child.

One thing that I really love in fiction (well, in reality too) is when children, mostly free from the world's hierarchies, idolize someone that usually isn't.. idolizeable. Like a sandwich lady with electric blue eyeshadow lmao. This whole part of the story had such a perfect conclusion too, and I liked the air of mystery that remained around it. We never found out what was actually the deal with her face! And it felt like a good call, since to a 9 year old this wasn't that important.

Tutti was another great part of the story, particularly her overcoming the childish jealousy that is always used as a plot device. Her being the one that helped the protagonist move forward and take action was great, and their developing friendship made me feel all warm inside.

All in all a very comfy and enjoyable short read.