"Sometimes we helped our
Gracie aunt cook.
She let us throw spaghetti
against the wall. If it stuck,
it was done.
On Saturday nights, she made popcorn
and let us watch scary movies with her."
Beebee and her younger brother are alone in their house when Miss Lee comes to the door asking to speak to their mother. Readers quickly learn that Beebee has a worry about foster care, as their mom is often away for different periods of time. When Miss Lee returns, Beebee does open the door and Miss Lee explains she is taking them to be with their mother's sister.
Johnson's first-person narration is full of questions about what will happen to the two of them. As they drive away from their home, Miss Lee explains she has talked with their aunt. She is their mother's sister. It is a very quiet ride. Upon arrival, Johnson becomes quite excited at how things look.
"I couldn't believe it either. Her yard was big and had a tire swing
hanging from a tree, And pretty flowers everywhere."
Their Gracie aunt is delighted to welcome them and does everything she can do to make them comfortable. Beebee is not as amenable to the situation and attention during the day, or at bedtime. Their aunt answers the questions they have, explaining to Beebee that she and their mother had an argument once that left them not speaking to each other.
It is not an easy transition; it takes time for the children to accept their new reality. The love shared begins a healing process that leads to their having a visit with their mama, who tells them how much she loves them and explains that she cannot take care of them right now. Their excitement as they return to their Gracie aunt leaves them in a hopeful place until the family can be reunited.
Tender and moving, with warm digital artwork that adds understanding for the circumstances the children face, and the constant love that surrounds them whatever family might look like.
No comments:
Post a Comment