“The Search for Delicious,” by Natalie Babbitt

“The Search for Delicious,” by Natalie Babbitt is an enjoyable fairy tale story aimed at the junior fiction audience. Before reading this book my only experience with Natalie Babbitt’s writing style had been her deeper, more serious books such as “Tuck Everlasting” and “Kneeknock Rise.” But “The Search for Delicious” shows a whole new side of Babbitt’s writing, a clear, light style that is both imaginative and satisfying.

“The Search for Delicious” starts with a humorous situation. The Prime Minister is writing a dictionary, with such definitions as “Affectionate is your dog,” and “Calamitous is saying no to the King.” But when he reaches the definition of ‘delicious’ no one can agree on a single food that is most delicious. The King thinks that the most delicious food is an apple. But then the Queen starts advocating a Christmas pudding. The General of the Armies thinks that a mug of beer is most delicious. Before long everyone is quarreling over how the definition should read. A solution is needed, and that is where young Gaylen enters the story.

Babbitt takes Gaylen on a marvelous journey that uncovers a dreadful plot that involves the king, a weeping mermaid, and a lost key. But Delicious can not seem to be found!

I enjoyed the story’s light nature and its relaxing, humorous style. “The Search for Delicious” is a great read, not only for a Natalie Babbitt fan, but also for anyone who wants a refreshing reading experience.

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