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In Our Mothers' House
Marmee, Meema, and the kids are just like any other family on the block. In their beautiful house, they cook dinner together, they laugh together, and they dance together. But some of the other families don't accept them. They say they are different. How can a family have two moms and no dad? But Marmee and Meema's house is full of love. And they teach their children that different doesn't mean wrong. And no matter how many moms or dads they have, they are everything a family is meant to be. Here is a true Polacco story of a family, living by their own rules, and the strength they gain by the love they feel.
48 pages, Hardcover
First published April 30, 2009
6 people are currently reading
1271 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Polacco
100 books1,076 followersPatricia Polacco is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator with around seventy beloved and award-winning books to her credit, including The Keeping Quilt, Pink and Say, The Blessing Cup, Chicken Sunday, and Thank You, Mr. Falker. She resides in Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 353 reviews
December 24, 2009
In the back of the book in the author biography section (where I finally see a photo of her) it reveals that Polacco wrote this book specifically for children she met during her speaking engagements at schools, children from untraditional families, because she saw the need for a book such as this. I concur, and I think she did a remarkable job with it. The fictional family she writes about here are residents of Berkeley, California. I’m sure there are plenty of books with this subject matter but I think this is a particularly excellent one.
The story’s narrator is the oldest child in the family. She writes about her family: her two mothers, who are lesbians and who are very accomplished in their careers and home skills both, her little brother and sister, their two dogs, their house, their neighbors, their extended family, their traditions, and their lives. The mothers have adopted all three children, and it’s an inter-racial family too; one child appears to be African-American and one child appears to be of Asian descent. There are also two cats that appear in the wonderful illustrations but they’re not mentioned in the story itself. There’s one neighbor who’s bigoted and doesn’t like the family but all the other neighbors are friendly.
The events take place from the time the oldest daughter was adopted as an infant until all three children have marriages and children of their own and their mothers have died. They’re shown as a normal and loving family, and I found them to be interesting and likeable people.
I very much enjoyed most of the illustrations in this one. Polacco does wonders with facial expressions. The block party scene was fun to look at, and I was incredibly touched by the illustration toward the end of the two mothers together as elderly women.
I was pleasantly surprised that my library had this 2009 book, but I’m in San Francisco and there are many families in the area that have same sex parents, so I assume the library saw a need and filled it.
The story’s narrator is the oldest child in the family. She writes about her family: her two mothers, who are lesbians and who are very accomplished in their careers and home skills both, her little brother and sister, their two dogs, their house, their neighbors, their extended family, their traditions, and their lives. The mothers have adopted all three children, and it’s an inter-racial family too; one child appears to be African-American and one child appears to be of Asian descent. There are also two cats that appear in the wonderful illustrations but they’re not mentioned in the story itself. There’s one neighbor who’s bigoted and doesn’t like the family but all the other neighbors are friendly.
The events take place from the time the oldest daughter was adopted as an infant until all three children have marriages and children of their own and their mothers have died. They’re shown as a normal and loving family, and I found them to be interesting and likeable people.
I very much enjoyed most of the illustrations in this one. Polacco does wonders with facial expressions. The block party scene was fun to look at, and I was incredibly touched by the illustration toward the end of the two mothers together as elderly women.
I was pleasantly surprised that my library had this 2009 book, but I’m in San Francisco and there are many families in the area that have same sex parents, so I assume the library saw a need and filled it.
May 7, 2012
Such a wonderful, beautiful book! I am generally a huge fan of Polacco's work and I think this is one of my very favorites.
First and foremost, this is a story about family love. It is utterly heartwarming. Oh, how I longed to visit the family--sit by that special fireplace, play with the new puppies, enjoy some of grandpa's gnocchi, laugh during that Christmas celebration. It's about supporting one another, children learning from their parents, and parents growing as a result of having children. (I loved the part where Marmee and Meema wear dresses for the mother-daughter tea party!)
I wish we lived in a world where that is all that need be said about the story. Since we aren't quite there yet, and some people will probably find this book "controversial", I would like to say that this is also a very well written story about "non-traditional" families. I really appreciate that there was no fanfare about Marmee and Meema being a lesbian couple. They were, simply, a couple. A very loving couple who happened to want children and couldn't have them except through adoption. And the children they adopted just happened to be of different races. Again, we don't have a big "point" made about this, they simply are. So refreshing! I think the adoption aspect was handled well and, as my husband and his siblings are all adopted and of different races, it was especially touching for me. I think sometimes books about non-traditional families have the best of intentions but try too hard to make a point, but this was just so beautifully done.
I do think Polacco wanted to show the prejudice against Marmee and Meema because she made a point of showing how the neighbor lady never accepted them and even confronted. However, I appreciated how, while the incidents were obviously upsetting, Marmee and Meema showed some compassion in return and tried to shield their children from the hatred (perhaps too strong a word? fear? anger?) of others with their own strong love.
Just beautiful!
First and foremost, this is a story about family love. It is utterly heartwarming. Oh, how I longed to visit the family--sit by that special fireplace, play with the new puppies, enjoy some of grandpa's gnocchi, laugh during that Christmas celebration. It's about supporting one another, children learning from their parents, and parents growing as a result of having children. (I loved the part where Marmee and Meema wear dresses for the mother-daughter tea party!)
I wish we lived in a world where that is all that need be said about the story. Since we aren't quite there yet, and some people will probably find this book "controversial", I would like to say that this is also a very well written story about "non-traditional" families. I really appreciate that there was no fanfare about Marmee and Meema being a lesbian couple. They were, simply, a couple. A very loving couple who happened to want children and couldn't have them except through adoption. And the children they adopted just happened to be of different races. Again, we don't have a big "point" made about this, they simply are. So refreshing! I think the adoption aspect was handled well and, as my husband and his siblings are all adopted and of different races, it was especially touching for me. I think sometimes books about non-traditional families have the best of intentions but try too hard to make a point, but this was just so beautifully done.
I do think Polacco wanted to show the prejudice against Marmee and Meema because she made a point of showing how the neighbor lady never accepted them and even confronted. However, I appreciated how, while the incidents were obviously upsetting, Marmee and Meema showed some compassion in return and tried to shield their children from the hatred (perhaps too strong a word? fear? anger?) of others with their own strong love.
Just beautiful!
April 30, 2017
The first thing I noticed about this book was that the people are so happy in it-- they're smiling on almost every page. The story is about a lesbian couple who are raising three children (one white, one black, and one Asian), and their positive impact on the children and on their community. A lovely, lovely story, though not without the presence of a neighbor who dislikes them and causes a few uncertain moments. My favorite picture is toward the end, where the 2 women are sitting together in a chair as old ladies. Outstanding!
January 19, 2015
In our attempt to find children’s literature featuring lesbian representation, Zsuzsi and I picked up In Our Mothers’ House, the story of an interracial, adoptive family headed by a lesbian couple. Both from a literary and political analysis, the picture book proved a disappointing read.
Storywise, author Patricia Polacco’s book was slow and dull. There was no plot, and it felt like a string of dull, domestic events to show that lesbians are, in fact, people. In this tiresome narration of everything the characters do with their mothers, we find out that lesbians have occupations, skills, parents, and personalities. I really didn’t care about the details of making gnocchi, and the framing of the story as an adult reflecting on her childhood felt awkward and inappropriate for a picture book.
A deeper look at the content of the book showed other failings. Written by a straight author determined to represent the delightful rainbow that is “nontraditional” families, the novel touches only very superficially on the difficulties of lesbian life in a heterosexual world. One character, a mean neighbor, is presented to represent homophobia. Not only is she the only character in the entire fictional universe who is homophobic (suggesting that homophobia is the exception rather than the rule), the mothers’ reaction to her hostility is to pretend homophobia doesn’t exist, rather than discussing its existence with their children (along with, say, racism and misogyny). In most interactions with this character, the mothers literally ignore her aggression, or respond to their children’s questions with meaningless comments: “Why doesn’t she like us?” “I don’t know, but I like you” (not exact quotes, because I don’t have the book at hand). But even five-year-olds should know that ignoring a problem doesn’t make it go away. When the neighbor’s homophobia reaches the point of overt verbal aggression, the mothers continue to fail to acknowledge and criticize their heterosexist society. The neighbor’s attitude is explained as stemming from “fear” and lack of “understanding,” offering an inaccurate apologism for oppression. On a related note, two of the three adopted children are of different races than their white adoptive mothers, and there is no reflection on either the realities of racism or what it transracial adoption means for children.
Another issue was the representation of gender norms and heterosexuality in the book. I appreciated that the mothers were drawn as not conforming to feminine expectations, both with short hair and described as never wearing dresses. Additionally, there’s diversity in body types, with one “tall and thin” and the other “short and stout.” Nevertheless, in order to illustrate the extent of the mothers’ devotion to their children, Polacco insists on putting the characters in fancy gown-like dresses, simply because it’s expected for their daughters’ tea party. The two women are obviously, and explicitly, uncomfortable, but the incident is described as a humorous example of their selflessness, suggesting that true maternal love means adhering to constrictive societal expectations whether you want to or not. This storyline could have been an opportunity for questioning gender norms, so it’s especially unfortunate that its conclusion is that performing femininity is the sign of a loving mother.
The conclusion of the book offers yet another example of the author’s heterosexual lens. Completely unnecessarily, each of the three children is shown happily, heterosexually married. This tidbit about their lives adds nothing to the story except the homophobic reassurance that even lesbians’ children will turn out “normal.”
All in all, would not recommend.
Storywise, author Patricia Polacco’s book was slow and dull. There was no plot, and it felt like a string of dull, domestic events to show that lesbians are, in fact, people. In this tiresome narration of everything the characters do with their mothers, we find out that lesbians have occupations, skills, parents, and personalities. I really didn’t care about the details of making gnocchi, and the framing of the story as an adult reflecting on her childhood felt awkward and inappropriate for a picture book.
A deeper look at the content of the book showed other failings. Written by a straight author determined to represent the delightful rainbow that is “nontraditional” families, the novel touches only very superficially on the difficulties of lesbian life in a heterosexual world. One character, a mean neighbor, is presented to represent homophobia. Not only is she the only character in the entire fictional universe who is homophobic (suggesting that homophobia is the exception rather than the rule), the mothers’ reaction to her hostility is to pretend homophobia doesn’t exist, rather than discussing its existence with their children (along with, say, racism and misogyny). In most interactions with this character, the mothers literally ignore her aggression, or respond to their children’s questions with meaningless comments: “Why doesn’t she like us?” “I don’t know, but I like you” (not exact quotes, because I don’t have the book at hand). But even five-year-olds should know that ignoring a problem doesn’t make it go away. When the neighbor’s homophobia reaches the point of overt verbal aggression, the mothers continue to fail to acknowledge and criticize their heterosexist society. The neighbor’s attitude is explained as stemming from “fear” and lack of “understanding,” offering an inaccurate apologism for oppression. On a related note, two of the three adopted children are of different races than their white adoptive mothers, and there is no reflection on either the realities of racism or what it transracial adoption means for children.
Another issue was the representation of gender norms and heterosexuality in the book. I appreciated that the mothers were drawn as not conforming to feminine expectations, both with short hair and described as never wearing dresses. Additionally, there’s diversity in body types, with one “tall and thin” and the other “short and stout.” Nevertheless, in order to illustrate the extent of the mothers’ devotion to their children, Polacco insists on putting the characters in fancy gown-like dresses, simply because it’s expected for their daughters’ tea party. The two women are obviously, and explicitly, uncomfortable, but the incident is described as a humorous example of their selflessness, suggesting that true maternal love means adhering to constrictive societal expectations whether you want to or not. This storyline could have been an opportunity for questioning gender norms, so it’s especially unfortunate that its conclusion is that performing femininity is the sign of a loving mother.
The conclusion of the book offers yet another example of the author’s heterosexual lens. Completely unnecessarily, each of the three children is shown happily, heterosexually married. This tidbit about their lives adds nothing to the story except the homophobic reassurance that even lesbians’ children will turn out “normal.”
All in all, would not recommend.
May 10, 2013
*Updated review.
In Our Mothers’ House
Polacco, P. (2009). In our mothers’ house. New York, NY: Philomel Books.
Genre: Children’s Picture Storybook
Polacco stepped aside from her usual books based on personal experiences and heritage to write a book for children and families that she has met in schools, at speaking engagements, etc. In Our Mothers’ House is the story of three adopted children and the love and devotion they received from their two mothers in their mothers' house. Polacco’s story highlights the love of this family but also showcases some of the challenges and discrimination that “non-traditional” families face.
I particularly enjoyed the scenes in which the mothers sewed the children’s homemade Halloween costumes and dresses for a special tea. Despite all the love and support the two mothers offered their children, there was one mother in the neighborhood that was not accepting of their non-traditional family and it is beyond sad that these children had to deal with the hateful confrontation of this cold, bitter woman in such a public manner. Fortunately, Marmee and Meema were loving individuals and they did not let the hateful comments of one person impact the love in their hearts. I admire their strength and respectful response to hatred.
The book follows the three children into their adult lives. Sharing their marriages at their mothers' house, capturing the first steps of their own children at their mothers' house, and coming together for family events/gatherings after their mothers have passed...this story is remarkably touching and brought tears to my eyes.
Beautiful, beautiful story of unconditional love. Polacco at her finest!
See this review and more on my blog: randiesreviews.blogspot.com
In Our Mothers’ House
Polacco, P. (2009). In our mothers’ house. New York, NY: Philomel Books.
Genre: Children’s Picture Storybook
Polacco stepped aside from her usual books based on personal experiences and heritage to write a book for children and families that she has met in schools, at speaking engagements, etc. In Our Mothers’ House is the story of three adopted children and the love and devotion they received from their two mothers in their mothers' house. Polacco’s story highlights the love of this family but also showcases some of the challenges and discrimination that “non-traditional” families face.
I particularly enjoyed the scenes in which the mothers sewed the children’s homemade Halloween costumes and dresses for a special tea. Despite all the love and support the two mothers offered their children, there was one mother in the neighborhood that was not accepting of their non-traditional family and it is beyond sad that these children had to deal with the hateful confrontation of this cold, bitter woman in such a public manner. Fortunately, Marmee and Meema were loving individuals and they did not let the hateful comments of one person impact the love in their hearts. I admire their strength and respectful response to hatred.
The book follows the three children into their adult lives. Sharing their marriages at their mothers' house, capturing the first steps of their own children at their mothers' house, and coming together for family events/gatherings after their mothers have passed...this story is remarkably touching and brought tears to my eyes.
Beautiful, beautiful story of unconditional love. Polacco at her finest!
See this review and more on my blog: randiesreviews.blogspot.com
February 10, 2020
With three children, two mothers, and two cats, Marmee and Meema's house was always filled with joy and laughter. Holiday visits from the children's gnocchi-making Nonna, homemade costumes and family trick-or-treating at Halloween, and exciting block parties with their diverse neighbors, filled their days with fun. Most of all, the care and attention of two very different mothers filled the children's lives with love.
In Our Mothers' House is a lovely book, written, according to the little biographical blurb at the back of the book, to fill a gap perceived by the author, when it came to family-oriented picture-books. The story, in which a Euro-American lesbian couple adopt and raise three diverse children - one African-American, one Asian-American, one Euro-American - offers a wonderfully supportive and positive depiction of a non-traditional family, and although there are a few disturbing incidents (one of the neighboring women doesn't approve of Marmee and Meema), the focus here is on love and community.
Beautifully told, and beautifully illustrated, this is one I would recommend especially to LGBT and interracial families, but also to anyone looking to highlight the beauty of diversity, and the common feelings and needs of all peoples, regardless of race or sexual orientation, for young readers. Thanks for alerting me to this one, Lisa!
In Our Mothers' House is a lovely book, written, according to the little biographical blurb at the back of the book, to fill a gap perceived by the author, when it came to family-oriented picture-books. The story, in which a Euro-American lesbian couple adopt and raise three diverse children - one African-American, one Asian-American, one Euro-American - offers a wonderfully supportive and positive depiction of a non-traditional family, and although there are a few disturbing incidents (one of the neighboring women doesn't approve of Marmee and Meema), the focus here is on love and community.
Beautifully told, and beautifully illustrated, this is one I would recommend especially to LGBT and interracial families, but also to anyone looking to highlight the beauty of diversity, and the common feelings and needs of all peoples, regardless of race or sexual orientation, for young readers. Thanks for alerting me to this one, Lisa!
June 24, 2016
I recently read 2 Patricia Polacco books in a row that didn't make me cry, so I became overconfident and read this to my daughters in a bold, animated voice. By the time Ms. Polacco's precious illustrations depicted the aging moms and the confident, once-adopted children all grown up and in their own adult homes, I was one hot mess.
I cried all over the final pages, which made my youngest daughter chuckle with laughter and my middle child well up with tears. (Everybody's different, which is, ironically, the message of this story).
This is a lovely picture book, probably best for 5-10 year-olds, and a great story for anyone whose family, like ours, occasionally elicits more than the average amount of stares.
I cried all over the final pages, which made my youngest daughter chuckle with laughter and my middle child well up with tears. (Everybody's different, which is, ironically, the message of this story).
This is a lovely picture book, probably best for 5-10 year-olds, and a great story for anyone whose family, like ours, occasionally elicits more than the average amount of stares.
November 30, 2016
This was great and I loved it! I read one of Polacco's books before and I didn't like it, but this book!!! It was amazing and I really appreciated her capturing the diversity of the family not just in the parents, but also in the children. It was amazing to read and I'm not going to lie I definitely got a little teary eyed towards the end.
May 31, 2012
This is a wonderful story of a loving family. They cook together, dance together, laugh together and live life with joy. Their family fills the house with love that extends for many generations.
Period.
Like Kathryn, I wish that was all I had to say about this story. But the simple fact remains that this is a tale of two women who live together as a married couple and choose to adopt three children of different ethnic and racial backgrounds. That this story doesn't make a big deal of these 'facts' is awesome, and someday, perhaps, this story will simply be seen for what it truly is - a celebration of family and love.
So many children grow up in less than ideal circumstances. I know I've made some poor decisions as a parent and just try every day to be as loving, kind and patient as I can. But this tale shows how two women raise three happy, well-adjusted, confident children and reap the rewards of that love, patience and kindness in their latter years. We should all be so blessed.
I like that Patricia Polacco shows that the two women shrug off the mean comments and hateful glares of Mrs. Lockner; they don't engage with her in a battle of wits or try to convince her that they are not evil or wrong. They merely show kindness and teach their children to ignore the comments and react with love and not hate. If only more people did that.
I love that it appears that Ms. Polacco inserted herself into the story. A woman who looks very similar to her appears as one of the grandmothers (I'm guessing Meema's mom.) But where I see the most likeness is in the middle of the tale, during a family Christmas celebration. On one page, we see Meema, a slew of children and pets surrounding Ms. Polacco on the stairway as she tells a riveting story to the rapt listeners. Whether she truly intended to place herself in the story or not, I thought it was a nice touch.
Overall, I thought this was a wonderful tale. As happens (more often than I like to admit), my voice caught as I read the last few pages of the story and tears came to my eyes. It is amazing the way that Patricia Polacco's stories do that to me. Somehow she finds a way to get straight to my heart with her tales.
I was quite disappointed that none of the library systems I have access to had this book available. Some of the Elementary schools in our area have it, but our girls' school does not. So I chose to purchase this book. I thought it was actually somewhat ironic that the used book that I received came from a library system in Virginia. It had been discarded, although I hope it was because of some of the damage to the book and not the content. Still, I am very glad to have been able to read this book and it was worth purchasing. I will see if I can donate it to our girls' school, as the damage appears to be fixable. We really enjoyed reading this story together.
This story was selected as one of the books for the May 2012 - Mothers reads at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads. I have to say that it was my favorite of all of the selections this month.
interesting quote:
"What I loved most about our family was that we could speak our hearts. We never measured words." (p. 27)
"From the day we entered our mothers' house, they prepared us for the day that we would leave it." (p. 40)
Period.
Like Kathryn, I wish that was all I had to say about this story. But the simple fact remains that this is a tale of two women who live together as a married couple and choose to adopt three children of different ethnic and racial backgrounds. That this story doesn't make a big deal of these 'facts' is awesome, and someday, perhaps, this story will simply be seen for what it truly is - a celebration of family and love.
So many children grow up in less than ideal circumstances. I know I've made some poor decisions as a parent and just try every day to be as loving, kind and patient as I can. But this tale shows how two women raise three happy, well-adjusted, confident children and reap the rewards of that love, patience and kindness in their latter years. We should all be so blessed.
I like that Patricia Polacco shows that the two women shrug off the mean comments and hateful glares of Mrs. Lockner; they don't engage with her in a battle of wits or try to convince her that they are not evil or wrong. They merely show kindness and teach their children to ignore the comments and react with love and not hate. If only more people did that.
I love that it appears that Ms. Polacco inserted herself into the story. A woman who looks very similar to her appears as one of the grandmothers (I'm guessing Meema's mom.) But where I see the most likeness is in the middle of the tale, during a family Christmas celebration. On one page, we see Meema, a slew of children and pets surrounding Ms. Polacco on the stairway as she tells a riveting story to the rapt listeners. Whether she truly intended to place herself in the story or not, I thought it was a nice touch.
Overall, I thought this was a wonderful tale. As happens (more often than I like to admit), my voice caught as I read the last few pages of the story and tears came to my eyes. It is amazing the way that Patricia Polacco's stories do that to me. Somehow she finds a way to get straight to my heart with her tales.
I was quite disappointed that none of the library systems I have access to had this book available. Some of the Elementary schools in our area have it, but our girls' school does not. So I chose to purchase this book. I thought it was actually somewhat ironic that the used book that I received came from a library system in Virginia. It had been discarded, although I hope it was because of some of the damage to the book and not the content. Still, I am very glad to have been able to read this book and it was worth purchasing. I will see if I can donate it to our girls' school, as the damage appears to be fixable. We really enjoyed reading this story together.
This story was selected as one of the books for the May 2012 - Mothers reads at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads. I have to say that it was my favorite of all of the selections this month.
interesting quote:
"What I loved most about our family was that we could speak our hearts. We never measured words." (p. 27)
"From the day we entered our mothers' house, they prepared us for the day that we would leave it." (p. 40)
October 24, 2010
At first glance of this book, you might not notice anything different. Take a closer look and you will see In Our Mother's House is about a family with two mothers raising three young adopted children. Written and illustrated by Patricia Polacco, this realistic story takes you through a modern families journey. From raising adopted infants to marrying off all three of their children, this incredibly realistic story can pull at your heart strings.
The two main characters, lovingly known as Marmee and Meema to their three children, are shown as smart, strong females living in today's society. Meema is a pediatrician and Marmee is a paramedic. As in the case with all Patricia Polacco tales, this incredibly detailed story doesn't leave room for questions. Many questions that children may have about a same-sex couple can be answered with this book.
As we watch the three children grow up, we continue to meet a close-minded neighbor who frowns and turns her back every time she sees this family. At first the children are very confused as to why Mrs. Lockner won't speak to them. Eventually Mrs. Lockner makes her opinion known at a neighborhood festival. Marmee and Meema are cleaning up when Mrs. Lockner finds the two women and shouts, "I don't appreciate what you are." After Mrs. Lockner leaves, the two women explain to their children that Mrs. Lockner is full of fear and simply doesn't understand them.
That is the only time the women in this story face hatred for being a same sex couple raising children. It is very realistic the way Patricia Polacco portrays the potential real-life situation that can follow this way of life. With so much hatred in the world, we need to show children there is no need for more hatred.
Personally I would use this book for my own children (although I do not have any) to show them how same-sex couples are the same as heterogeneous couples. I would not use this for my students simply because of the area I teach. I truly believe if I read this book to my second grade students, I would have 25 emails and phone calls before 5 o'clock. It's so sad that this is the world in which we live; I hope that one day I can read this book to my students (no matter where I teach) and not worry.
The two main characters, lovingly known as Marmee and Meema to their three children, are shown as smart, strong females living in today's society. Meema is a pediatrician and Marmee is a paramedic. As in the case with all Patricia Polacco tales, this incredibly detailed story doesn't leave room for questions. Many questions that children may have about a same-sex couple can be answered with this book.
As we watch the three children grow up, we continue to meet a close-minded neighbor who frowns and turns her back every time she sees this family. At first the children are very confused as to why Mrs. Lockner won't speak to them. Eventually Mrs. Lockner makes her opinion known at a neighborhood festival. Marmee and Meema are cleaning up when Mrs. Lockner finds the two women and shouts, "I don't appreciate what you are." After Mrs. Lockner leaves, the two women explain to their children that Mrs. Lockner is full of fear and simply doesn't understand them.
That is the only time the women in this story face hatred for being a same sex couple raising children. It is very realistic the way Patricia Polacco portrays the potential real-life situation that can follow this way of life. With so much hatred in the world, we need to show children there is no need for more hatred.
Personally I would use this book for my own children (although I do not have any) to show them how same-sex couples are the same as heterogeneous couples. I would not use this for my students simply because of the area I teach. I truly believe if I read this book to my second grade students, I would have 25 emails and phone calls before 5 o'clock. It's so sad that this is the world in which we live; I hope that one day I can read this book to my students (no matter where I teach) and not worry.
July 3, 2014
This book, published in 2009, has two morals:
1) Same-sex couples can be loving and fun-loving
2) Opponents of same-sex couples are fearful, cold-hearted bigots
It was published in 2009. In 2014, that message is almost preachy. It represents the liberal conventional wisdom. In fact, considering all of gay marriage's recent court victories, it almost represents the conventional wisdom period! The opponents of gay marriage are losing badly.
The message was so overly simplistic that I was reminded of this Bella Abzug quote: "Our struggle today is not to have a female Einstein get appointed as an assistant professor. It is for a woman schlemiel to get as quickly promoted as a male schlemiel."
In this context, that means I think that gay marriage has moved beyond the need for Polacco's propaganda and hopefully same-sex couples can be portrayed as screwed up and as human as the rest of us! I don't think we're there quite yet, but I'm there and that's what I like to read (Thank goodness for Alison Bechdel!). Meema and Marmee are saints, I would've preferred that they were people.
It reminds me of when I was a kid, I loved "Married with Children," I vastly preferred it to shows like "Father Knows Best" because it seemed a lot more real to me: families fight, they're made up of individuals, work is a drag. Little did I know! But the Bundys loved each other. There are no bad days in Meema and Marmee's house. When I read a book like that, I think "Give me a break."
That degree of nuance might be too much to ask from a children's book, but Polacco's brilliant "Junkyard Wonders" encouraged my optimism. "Our Mothers' House" wasn't in the same class.
1) Same-sex couples can be loving and fun-loving
2) Opponents of same-sex couples are fearful, cold-hearted bigots
It was published in 2009. In 2014, that message is almost preachy. It represents the liberal conventional wisdom. In fact, considering all of gay marriage's recent court victories, it almost represents the conventional wisdom period! The opponents of gay marriage are losing badly.
The message was so overly simplistic that I was reminded of this Bella Abzug quote: "Our struggle today is not to have a female Einstein get appointed as an assistant professor. It is for a woman schlemiel to get as quickly promoted as a male schlemiel."
In this context, that means I think that gay marriage has moved beyond the need for Polacco's propaganda and hopefully same-sex couples can be portrayed as screwed up and as human as the rest of us! I don't think we're there quite yet, but I'm there and that's what I like to read (Thank goodness for Alison Bechdel!). Meema and Marmee are saints, I would've preferred that they were people.
It reminds me of when I was a kid, I loved "Married with Children," I vastly preferred it to shows like "Father Knows Best" because it seemed a lot more real to me: families fight, they're made up of individuals, work is a drag. Little did I know! But the Bundys loved each other. There are no bad days in Meema and Marmee's house. When I read a book like that, I think "Give me a break."
That degree of nuance might be too much to ask from a children's book, but Polacco's brilliant "Junkyard Wonders" encouraged my optimism. "Our Mothers' House" wasn't in the same class.
November 29, 2009
Marmee and Meema and their three children fill their lives with the of joy of new puppies, holiday meals and homemade Halloween costumes. They cook together, laugh together, dance together. Their lives are like any other family in their town. And while one of their neighbors doesn't accept them because they are different, Marmee and Meema handle it with gentleness and grace, focusing instead on the support they feel from the rest of their neighborhood.
Patricia Polacco has created a portrait of a loving family here, celebrating their differences while showing the love that all of the family members feel for each other. This certainly can help children see that families with two moms, two dads or adopted children are families full of love; but this book also simply reminds children of the love and safety they feel within their own home.
Patricia Polacco has created a portrait of a loving family here, celebrating their differences while showing the love that all of the family members feel for each other. This certainly can help children see that families with two moms, two dads or adopted children are families full of love; but this book also simply reminds children of the love and safety they feel within their own home.
May 20, 2023
This book is on the list of the top 100 most challenged books for 2010-2019. So what is in this book? You have a couple, clearly a lesbian couple, though it is never talked about or mentioned. You have three adopted kids. You have a diverse neighborhood, but at least one near neighbor who doesn't accept this family, but it is never stated why. And that's it. That's what it takes to get challenged and sometimes banned.
It is a pretty good children's picture book. It shows the variety of life and positive family stuff that may feel a bit hard to live up to. And other than one difficult neighbor, everything is kind of shiny. So perhaps not the most realistic. The art is fine, the text is fine.
It is a pretty good children's picture book. It shows the variety of life and positive family stuff that may feel a bit hard to live up to. And other than one difficult neighbor, everything is kind of shiny. So perhaps not the most realistic. The art is fine, the text is fine.
September 25, 2012
“In My Mother’s House” by Patricia Polacco is a wonderful children’s book that focuses on the life of a little girl who grows up with two mothers, Meema and Marmee (as she calls them). They are a unique family: two moms, a little girl, a younger brother, Will, and a younger sister, Millie. Although she comes from a family with same-sex parents and a brother and sister from two different races, their family is still a normal, very loving family. She grows up in a beautiful household with parents who constantly shower their children with love and affection. The pictures in the story are very colorful and fun; they are engaging and catch the reader’s eyes as he or she goes through the book. The story is from the young girl’s perspective about her family and everything they do together. This children’s book also incorporates a problem into the narrative—another child’s mother is unwilling to let her children play with the family because she doesn’t accept their family. The mothers, Meema and Marmee, however, present a solution to the problem and show a very mature understanding of what happens and a appropriate method of dealing with the problem that arises. The author does a wonderful job in portraying a unique family that truly loves one another and shows understanding and acceptance of a different type of family.
This book focuses on several different topics that can be taught in the classroom: adoption, same-sex couples, different races, and problem-solution stories. Although many schools might not allow this book to be taught in the classroom, I personally think this book would do very well to teach students about so many different topics from just one text. This is one of my favorite children’s books by far, and I really appreciate what Polacco has created in this text. This would be a great resource to have in the classroom to talk about different types of families that exist. Students can talk about their own families or even families they might know of. The book introduces this unique family as something very positive. I would also use this book to discuss how people may bring up negative connotations about families that are different from the “traditional” American family we usually hear of. This book really challenges students to think “outside of the box” and create their own opinions and thoughts, and I would recommend this book to any teacher or reader.
This book focuses on several different topics that can be taught in the classroom: adoption, same-sex couples, different races, and problem-solution stories. Although many schools might not allow this book to be taught in the classroom, I personally think this book would do very well to teach students about so many different topics from just one text. This is one of my favorite children’s books by far, and I really appreciate what Polacco has created in this text. This would be a great resource to have in the classroom to talk about different types of families that exist. Students can talk about their own families or even families they might know of. The book introduces this unique family as something very positive. I would also use this book to discuss how people may bring up negative connotations about families that are different from the “traditional” American family we usually hear of. This book really challenges students to think “outside of the box” and create their own opinions and thoughts, and I would recommend this book to any teacher or reader.
May 27, 2018
In this touching work of contemporary realistic fiction by Patricia Polacco, our narrator allows readers a glimpse into her memories of growing up with two mothers. One of three adopted children, our narrator remembers the love her mothers, Marmee and Meema, showed to her and her siblings throughout their childhood.
Described in beautiful detail and captured with illustrations that you could just jump into, readers get a full sense of what Marmee and Meema were like. Their personalities, passions and character are created in a way that feels real and close, reminding readers of their own parents and the things they love about them, right down to the smallest details. The story feels as though it takes place in the 'here and now' and the family relationship and the love shared is one many readers could relate to.
This story spans across the narrator's childhood, touching on specific memories, such as receiving a puppy, cooking together, playing in the treehouse her mothers built and the fabulous neighborhood block party where the disapproving neighbors--the Lockers-- criticized her lesbian mothers. The tea party the narrator asked her mothers to host and wear dresses to is especially poignant as the narrator reflects on how awkward her mothers must have felt, yet proceeded to wear dresses to make their daughter feel loved.
Children of same-sex parents have the opportunity to see themselves in this story, as well as adopted children with parents of a different race. This story is perfect for readers with any type of family structure because it provides both a window into the lives of families with two moms or dads as well as demonstrating that love is what matters, not what genders one's parents are.
Themes of unconditional love, family, acceptance and differences are pervasive throughout the story. The adopted children of Marmee and Meema are different races, and the neighborhood that loves and understands this family unit is comprised of people from many different cultures. A celebration of love, life and family, this book has quickly become one of my favorites by Patricia Polacco, teaching children and adults alike about the very real love that makes a family.
Described in beautiful detail and captured with illustrations that you could just jump into, readers get a full sense of what Marmee and Meema were like. Their personalities, passions and character are created in a way that feels real and close, reminding readers of their own parents and the things they love about them, right down to the smallest details. The story feels as though it takes place in the 'here and now' and the family relationship and the love shared is one many readers could relate to.
This story spans across the narrator's childhood, touching on specific memories, such as receiving a puppy, cooking together, playing in the treehouse her mothers built and the fabulous neighborhood block party where the disapproving neighbors--the Lockers-- criticized her lesbian mothers. The tea party the narrator asked her mothers to host and wear dresses to is especially poignant as the narrator reflects on how awkward her mothers must have felt, yet proceeded to wear dresses to make their daughter feel loved.
Children of same-sex parents have the opportunity to see themselves in this story, as well as adopted children with parents of a different race. This story is perfect for readers with any type of family structure because it provides both a window into the lives of families with two moms or dads as well as demonstrating that love is what matters, not what genders one's parents are.
Themes of unconditional love, family, acceptance and differences are pervasive throughout the story. The adopted children of Marmee and Meema are different races, and the neighborhood that loves and understands this family unit is comprised of people from many different cultures. A celebration of love, life and family, this book has quickly become one of my favorites by Patricia Polacco, teaching children and adults alike about the very real love that makes a family.
October 23, 2017
“In Our Mother’s House” is a realistic fiction children’s book that tells a beautiful story of Meema and Marmee, a same-sex couple living in Berkley, California who adopt three children together. Although the plot isn’t particularly complex, the story still offers a much-needed perspective on the lives of a diverse family such as this one. The characters show a diverse representation of what a family can look like. The narrator, an African-American girl, is the oldest of the children and Will was adopted from Asia. Meema’s family is Italian and offers a look into Italian culture through food. The book includes other cultures that are living in the family’s neighborhood such as Greek, Japanese, and Jewish families. As the book tells the various aspects of any family’s traditions and day-to-day activities, this family is never represented as something odd or singled out. The author is careful to show that this family is like many other families that we are generally more familiar with. Meema and Marmee are complex characters who are defined by more than their sexual orientation. The book is also honest about the reality of the prejudices that some people can have. There is one family in the neighborhood where the mom is clearly disapproving of the Meema and Marmee’s family. However, they focus on the love that they have in their family and don’t let the hate of others interrupt their perfectly fun and loving lives. The illustrations are eye-catching and have a lot of detail that is sure to interest children. They also help develop the story through visual representations of the various cultures in the book. This book offers a lot for children to think about and is developmentally appropriate when discussing what it means to be a family.
February 24, 2016
Patricia Polacco has many wonderful books to her credit, this one is no exception. This is a lovely book showing a family with same sex parents who adopt three children, the oldest child has dark skin, the second child is of Asian descent and the third baby is a red head.
The oldest child narrates as she recalls what it was like growing up within the love and comfort of her family's home. She describes the differences in her mothers' parenting styles and personalities. She remembers the way their house was alive with music, the fun they would have dancing together and how the children loved sliding down the banister. She recalls memorable moments growing up; the time her little sister drew all over the living room wall, her mothers' making all of their Halloween costumes, getting new puppies and building a tree house in the backyard. She tells about growing up, moving away from home and starting her own family, yet always coming back for holidays, birthdays and important family gatherings like when her grandparents passed away.
This is a wonderful book that shows the love of a family, it shows the differences between individuals in both the way they look, (skinny, plump, brown-skinned, white-skinned, red-haired) and in personality and in talents possessed. It offers parents all kinds of opportunities to talk with their children about the experiences we all share as members of a family as well as how we treat people who are different from us in one way or another.
Books like this help us have meaningful conversations with our children about what we value, how we treat people, and that while we might be different in some ways, that we are really all very much alike.
The oldest child narrates as she recalls what it was like growing up within the love and comfort of her family's home. She describes the differences in her mothers' parenting styles and personalities. She remembers the way their house was alive with music, the fun they would have dancing together and how the children loved sliding down the banister. She recalls memorable moments growing up; the time her little sister drew all over the living room wall, her mothers' making all of their Halloween costumes, getting new puppies and building a tree house in the backyard. She tells about growing up, moving away from home and starting her own family, yet always coming back for holidays, birthdays and important family gatherings like when her grandparents passed away.
This is a wonderful book that shows the love of a family, it shows the differences between individuals in both the way they look, (skinny, plump, brown-skinned, white-skinned, red-haired) and in personality and in talents possessed. It offers parents all kinds of opportunities to talk with their children about the experiences we all share as members of a family as well as how we treat people who are different from us in one way or another.
Books like this help us have meaningful conversations with our children about what we value, how we treat people, and that while we might be different in some ways, that we are really all very much alike.
March 23, 2017
"In Our Mothers' House" Patricia Polacco tells the story of a seemingly normal, loving family. This family, however, is different in the way that there are two mother figures instead of a mother and a father. The two mom characters are called Marmee and Meema. While other families may not accept a family consisting of two moms’, this particular family operates like any other family would. The moms’ in the story live their lives according to their own rules and values and teach their children that being different isn’t always a bad thing.
Given that this is a picture book, which breaks some so-called family stereotypes, it is considered a controversial text. While some may not agree with the theme of the book, it is a good way to expose children to the idea that every family is different. I think many kids are steered away from books such as this one because it brings up questions, but that it is also healthy to expose children to the unique families in the world today.
Even though this book is a good way to introduce students to the idea of the varying families, I don’t think I would use it in my elementary classroom because it is slightly too controversial. In today’s world, there are so many opinions and levels of understanding among both students and parents that it would be difficult to assign a book like this one and not have someone be upset. Therefore, this book is one that I would be more comfortable recommending to certain students and families, but not assigning in class because I don’t think it’s the job of the teacher to introduce students to personal concepts such as the ones discussed in this book.
Given that this is a picture book, which breaks some so-called family stereotypes, it is considered a controversial text. While some may not agree with the theme of the book, it is a good way to expose children to the idea that every family is different. I think many kids are steered away from books such as this one because it brings up questions, but that it is also healthy to expose children to the unique families in the world today.
Even though this book is a good way to introduce students to the idea of the varying families, I don’t think I would use it in my elementary classroom because it is slightly too controversial. In today’s world, there are so many opinions and levels of understanding among both students and parents that it would be difficult to assign a book like this one and not have someone be upset. Therefore, this book is one that I would be more comfortable recommending to certain students and families, but not assigning in class because I don’t think it’s the job of the teacher to introduce students to personal concepts such as the ones discussed in this book.
May 23, 2012
In Our Mothers' House by Patricia Polacco is the story of a loving family with three adopted children that is headed by two women. The tale is narrated by the oldest child, and follows the family over many years.
Polacco's illustrations were created in pencils and markers. Body language and facial expressions are well rendered. I loved the dog and cat illustrations. My favorite images are kitchen cooking, dancing, puppies, making gnocchi, on the stairs, food court, weddings, and last 2 images.
Marker is not my favorite illustration media, though I enjoyed many of the illustrations. I would have preferred a little more facial detail in some two page spreads. The text is matter of fact about the mixed race family, while still showing that one neighbor never liked the mothers because of their same sex relationship, though the family was accepted by most of the neighborhood. The family seems to have a loving, fairly idylic life, apparently free of most family problems. The story is beautifully told and belongs in school and public library collections. Using it in some schools for younger classes might, unfortunately, still be problematic. Hopefully in the future that will not be the case. 4 star rating.
For ages 4 to 8, adoption, families, gay-lesbian-families, lgbt-families, interracial-families, same-sex relationships, non-traditional-families, reverse-gender-roles, family diversity, realistic-fiction, and fans of Patricia Polacco.
Polacco's illustrations were created in pencils and markers. Body language and facial expressions are well rendered. I loved the dog and cat illustrations. My favorite images are kitchen cooking, dancing, puppies, making gnocchi, on the stairs, food court, weddings, and last 2 images.
Marker is not my favorite illustration media, though I enjoyed many of the illustrations. I would have preferred a little more facial detail in some two page spreads. The text is matter of fact about the mixed race family, while still showing that one neighbor never liked the mothers because of their same sex relationship, though the family was accepted by most of the neighborhood. The family seems to have a loving, fairly idylic life, apparently free of most family problems. The story is beautifully told and belongs in school and public library collections. Using it in some schools for younger classes might, unfortunately, still be problematic. Hopefully in the future that will not be the case. 4 star rating.
For ages 4 to 8, adoption, families, gay-lesbian-families, lgbt-families, interracial-families, same-sex relationships, non-traditional-families, reverse-gender-roles, family diversity, realistic-fiction, and fans of Patricia Polacco.
July 27, 2012
This story is absolutely heart warming. It deals with two qualities of unconventional families. Same-sex parents and adoption. There could not be more love in this family. I believe this story is a creation of Polacco's reaction to hearing a 4th grader begin to talk about her family to her class. She was told to sit down because her family wasn't a real family. I am so glad Polacco took on the responsibility to tell the world that these ARE real families with real love and real issues. I am so glad that the little 4th grade girl finally had her story told. I hope this is beginning to show the world that it doesn't matter what the structure of a family looks like on the outside, but how much love and support goes on inside. It also provides hope to adopted children, that even if you may not live with your biological parents, you may still have people in your life who love you and would give you the world. The bottom line is that these three children have two parents who love them and that is a pretty good situation to be in.
April 16, 2010
Summary: One of my new favorite books about how love makes a family strong, no matter who the members of a family are. A young black girl narrates about her two caucasian mothers and how they adopted her, her asian brother, and her red-haired baby sister. The story is about how Marmee and Meema will do anything to make their children happy and even gain the love of the entire neighborhood, with the exception of one prejudiced neighbor who doesn't approve of their relationship. The book includes fun activites that the two organize and even includes a family block party in which their neighbors stand up for their relationship and show their love.
Audience: Grades 1-4
Genre: Picture Book
Use: Shared reading, read aloud, independent reading
Life Lessons: Teach non-traditional family values and acceptance
Recommendations/Awards: I would recommend this book to everyone! Also, librarian recommendation
Publisher: Philomel; 1st Edition edition (April 30, 2009)
Audience: Grades 1-4
Genre: Picture Book
Use: Shared reading, read aloud, independent reading
Life Lessons: Teach non-traditional family values and acceptance
Recommendations/Awards: I would recommend this book to everyone! Also, librarian recommendation
Publisher: Philomel; 1st Edition edition (April 30, 2009)
November 6, 2017
In Our Mother’s House by Patricia Polacco portrays a controversial theme because many families do not accept them due to two females raising a family. Most people would not find such a lifestyle normal; however, the author portrays the overall theme of acceptance.
This family knows they are different but they have accepted their differences and now live a wonderful life. After this family overcame all the discouragement and hate they made their home full of love. Marmee and Meema have taught their children that being different does not mean you are wrong. Throughout the book the author tells a heart-filling story of a family, living by their own rules, and the strength this family overcomes by the love they feel for one another.
As teachers, it is important the teach acceptance in your classroom. In Our Mother’s House provides a great example of acceptance. I would use this children’s book in my classroom to orchestrate a lesson about accepting everyone for who they are.
This family knows they are different but they have accepted their differences and now live a wonderful life. After this family overcame all the discouragement and hate they made their home full of love. Marmee and Meema have taught their children that being different does not mean you are wrong. Throughout the book the author tells a heart-filling story of a family, living by their own rules, and the strength this family overcomes by the love they feel for one another.
As teachers, it is important the teach acceptance in your classroom. In Our Mother’s House provides a great example of acceptance. I would use this children’s book in my classroom to orchestrate a lesson about accepting everyone for who they are.
October 12, 2009
This book brought a tear to my eye. Controversial, tender, and sensitive, you get a true feeling how the adopted children of two lesbian women must have felt growing up in a house with so much love. The children were Black, White, and Asian, and their mothers were White women. They were full of affection for the children. They were supportive and loving, and although the text was very strong of itself, the picures were magnetizing. This book did not win the Caldecott Award and I am wondering why?! Is it the theme of the book that might be offensive? Even though in this late day in our civilization, many people do not accept homosexuality, it is the reality for many people. The book follows this "odd" and "non-traditional" family through to the last loving days of of the mother's lives. It is so well written. So beautiffy illustrated. A must-read. Truly, truly impressive.
March 13, 2014
I was very disappointed with this book when I finished, but not because of what you may think. At the end of her books Pink and Say, there are generally collages of actual family photos at the end of her books. I was looking forward to seeing those photos of "nontraditional" families.
Other than the disappointment in the artwork, I really enjoyed this book. The story flowed well and I believe part of it is due to the fact that it is told from a child's point of view. The innocence pours off the page. You feel compassion for the child no matter what your views are about same sex couples.
I would recommend this book for parents and teachers alike that want to teach their kids/students about kids that are like Marmee and Meema's children.
Other than the disappointment in the artwork, I really enjoyed this book. The story flowed well and I believe part of it is due to the fact that it is told from a child's point of view. The innocence pours off the page. You feel compassion for the child no matter what your views are about same sex couples.
I would recommend this book for parents and teachers alike that want to teach their kids/students about kids that are like Marmee and Meema's children.
October 22, 2014
In Our Mothers' House is a story about three adopted kids growing up in a household where they had two mothers. Page by page different heartwarming memories from the eldest child's point of view are shared and you receive a sense of how much all the children were loved. There is a scene where all three children get sick at the same time, so their mothers buy them two puppies to make them feel better.
This is a endearing book that will have you grinning ear to ear while reading it. It is extremely well written and promotes tolerance every step of the way. The book being written in first person from the eldest daughters point of view makes the book that much more memorable and innocent. The pictures not only go along well with the story and but add to the story as well. This is a great book to have in access to children in order to promote open-mindedness.
This is a endearing book that will have you grinning ear to ear while reading it. It is extremely well written and promotes tolerance every step of the way. The book being written in first person from the eldest daughters point of view makes the book that much more memorable and innocent. The pictures not only go along well with the story and but add to the story as well. This is a great book to have in access to children in order to promote open-mindedness.
April 23, 2018
REALISTIC FICTION: This book was resticted in a Utah School District because the book is about a Lesbian family. (https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/0...). The book starts out explaining how Marmee and Meema adopted their oldest child, an African-American girl. It illustrates how they fill their home with love and care for their children. I would love to use this book in my classroom because it shows that no matter what your family looks like, your home can be filled with love. This would be a great educational opportunity for students about adoption and even same-sex marriage. This was a WOW book to me because I have read some of Patricia Polacco's books, but this one in particular was interesting to me because it addresses important social issues. In addition, I love her illustrations in her stories.
May 2, 2015
I know this is a slightly older title, so maybe the things that disappointed me can be cut some slack -
1) Having just one person in the town represent all homophobic people - and then the anger she feels toward the family is just blown off. Maybe just a little bit of explanation?
2) All three adopted kids (of various races, which I did like) end up happily married to someone who looks a lot like them. In a family and community as blended as this one seems, that feels unlikely and oddly stifling.
3) Kinda wordy.
4) Did the moms have to get all "ladied up" for the tea party? Seems like that would've been a great place to expand gender norms a bit.
Still - it's not like there are a ton of choices that fit this need yet. Hopefully that is changing.
1) Having just one person in the town represent all homophobic people - and then the anger she feels toward the family is just blown off. Maybe just a little bit of explanation?
2) All three adopted kids (of various races, which I did like) end up happily married to someone who looks a lot like them. In a family and community as blended as this one seems, that feels unlikely and oddly stifling.
3) Kinda wordy.
4) Did the moms have to get all "ladied up" for the tea party? Seems like that would've been a great place to expand gender norms a bit.
Still - it's not like there are a ton of choices that fit this need yet. Hopefully that is changing.
July 17, 2017
This is a great book for teaching about different family structures! This story incorporates adoption, same-sex marriage, and different races all into one family, and it is an incredible story! There are moments where the family is discriminated against because they are not a "normal" family, but in these moments their community comes together to support and accept them. I think this is a great book to use in both lower and elementary classes because it teaches about acceptance, community, family structure, diversity, and many more!
December 17, 2009
Fiction: Patricia Polacco's In Our Mother's House 2009 Is a story of 3 adopted children being raised by two mom's. A very well written story!! I thought this book was not only well written and illustrated as all Patricia Polacco books are, but it really portrays some of the mean spiritedness children with two mothers have to go through as children. I thought this book was not only good for children of two moms to read, but of children of all parental bases.
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July 12, 2017I really like this book because it is not overly direct in the message it is trying to get across to the readers. That message being explaining and normalizing gay parent homes. The book doesn't go overboard in description of what is happening. Instead, it tells a story of two lesbian women raising a family. I would recommend it to teachers of lower elementary who want to familiarize their students with diverse family structures.
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