Pickle Impossible »

Eli Stutz was born and raised in Toronto. He holds a B.A. in Humanities from Toronto's York University and a B.Sc. in Computer Science from Israel's Bar Ilan University. He has worked as a radio show host for Israel National Radio, and as a columnist for the Canadian Jewish News. Currently, he writes technical documentation for an international semi-conductor firm. Eli balances being a happy father, diligent writer, and all-around nice guy, supported by his bemused family in a tiny Israeli town that is somewhat but not completely off the beaten track.

www.elistutz.com

Twelve-year-old Pierre's remarkable family is known far and wide for their delicious pickles. But when the pickle farm is threatened, only Pierre can save it—by safely transporting a jar of world-famous pickles to an international pickle competition. When Pierre is kidnapped, a cunning young girl named Aurore rescues him. Together they set off with just twenty-four hours until the competition begins. To protect their pickles on the journey, Pierre and Aurore must navigate the ghostly catacombs of Paris, figure out how to safely crash-land a plane, enlist the help of a world-class scientist, and escape a villain who will stop at nothing to capture their jar of pickles.

This madcap adventure has everything a young reader could ask for, including an unlikely friendship, dangerous villains, magical coincidences, and a cliff-hanger at the end of every chapter.

Children's Literature

When young Pierre La Bouche sets out to save the family farm, he encounters a series of frightening events that could easily persuade him to give up and go home defeated. Pierre's determination and drive to reach his goal keep him steadfast and on his path. Through the many adventures, he learns of friendship and family ties of which he was unaware. He learns of the great feats of his grandfather that earned him an honorable reputation in many circles. Pierre meets his one-time-kidnapper-turned-friend, Aurore, and together they race through many twists and turns as they speed toward their destination, the Pickleympics in Bern, Switzerland. It is at the Pickleympics that the family's fate will be decided as the best pickle in the world is selected. Pierre learns a great deal about himself and comes to understand that average, in some cases, is the absolute best way to be. The book is a delightful read that instantly captures the reader's attention. The storyline is engaging and enjoyable for readers of all ages. Reviewer: Allison Fetters