Two Wonderful Children’s Books

One of the great delights of reading is discovering a mentor and role-model. As an adult reader I discovered a “feisty old lady” who, when I-grow-up (and find some courage), I will emulate.  Richard Peck, in two children’s books, introduces Grandma Dowdel. She is as “tough as an old boot” and suffers neither fools nor sentimentalists gladly.  Yet, as we
share her adventures with her city-slicker grandchildren, we discover that under her overalls and rough exterior grandma is a true friend- particularly to the two home-sick children.  Brave, clever, and supremely practical – I love Grandma Dowdel !  Set in rural Indiana from 1929-1945,
I recommend reading these aloud to a friend or family member – they are books to share!  The first book, narrated by the grandson, is A Long Way from Chicago; Mary Alice, his younger sister, shares her story in A Year Down Yonder.