All-of-a-Kind Family
by Helen John, Sydney Taylor

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Book Reviews of All-of-a-Kind Family

Book Review: FAMILY IDEALS IN OLD NEW YORK
Summary: 4 Stars

We are indebted to the author for the privilege of enjoying such an intimate portrait of her girlhood; this book is is the first of four All-of-a-Kind family stories, which bring us to the eve of World War I. It's fun to guess which girl grows up to be the author. The details of female interaction in a poor family may not appeal to elementary boys, but then this book may well have been written more for adults, in praise of Family Virtues. The girls have their own unique personalities, while Mama seems almost perfect (possibly idealized by her admiring adult daughter). Pity poor Papa who seeks refuge and male companionship in his basement Junk Shop, passing time with various immigrant peddlars.

We catch glimpses of the simple pleasures of their modest lifestyle; library days and the value of books, the Jewish marketplace, penny candy treats, choosing Papa's birthday gift, Roman candles on July 4th--even inadvertant matchmaking! We share their sorrows and trials as well: scarlet fever, soup tantrums and the consequences of juvenile disobedience, lost possessions and even kids. In all this turmoil of growing up in a large family, the emphasis is always on the human element and personal dignity, which mere poverty can not demean.

As a Gentile I find it pleasant to learn about another culture and faith in Taylor's gentle, unpreachy manner. She decribes Sabbath preparations and several major Jewish holidays, so that we are enlightened while being entertained. This family truly belongs to all of us, regardless of our ethnic or religious backgrounds. They reveal their foibles a! nd frailties with warmth-- international yet truly American in appeal. As Mama explains how they are All Of A Kind: "It means we're all loving and loyal, and our family will always be that." A charming book (decades before The Waltons) which will rekindle the best memories of home for readers of all ages.

Summary of All-of-a-Kind Family

Family Life Books

• Subjects > Children's Books > Social Situations > Family Life
• Literature & Fiction > Historical Fiction > United States
• Religious Fiction > Jewish