In Our Mothers' House

by: Patricia Polacco

ISBN: 9780399250767

Bibliography:

Polacco, Patricia. 2009. In Our Mothers' House. New York: Philomel Books.

Plot:

This story, narrated by the oldest of three children, describes a nontraditional family made up of two mothers and three adopted children from various cultures living in a neighborhood in Berkeley, CA.

Analysis:

This book bravely addresses the controversial topic of same-sex marriage. At times, this story seems romanticized, but no more than other picture books might romanticize a traditional family. Themes addressed in this story include: tolerance, prejudice, and family. The following quote illustrates the fact that this family is just as capable of providing a loving home for their children than any other family: "There wasn't a day in my life that I didn't feel deeply loved by Meema and Marmee. Our mothers were willing to do anything for us. We knew that." The illustrations do seem to portray stereotypical images of lesbians, depicting women with short hair who only wear pants, though this does not detract from the overall message of the story.

An example of prejudice is illustrated in the story when a difficult neighbor tells the mothers that she doesn't appreciate their lifestyle. When the daughter asks one of her mothers about what was disturbing the disgruntled neighbor, she replies,"She's full of fear, sweetie. She's afraid of what she cannot understand: she doesn't understand us." Tolerance is also depicted in this book by the many friends and neighbors of this unique family which are also illustrated in a very multicultural manner.

Review Excerpts:

Library Media Connection: “The writing style is truly Polacco and the colorful illustrations are warm and loving. This is a strong and memorable story of a peaceful, devoted family unit.”

School Library Journal: “This gem of a book illustrates how love makes a family, even if it's not a traditional one. Is this an idealized vision of a how a gay couple can be accepted by their family and community? Absolutely. But the story serves as a model of inclusiveness for children who have same-sex parents, as well as for children who may have questions about a "different" family in their neighborhood. A lovely book that can help youngsters better understand their world.”

Connections:

*Other Works by Patricia Polacco:

Chicken Sunday ISBN: 9780399221330

Emma Kate ISBN: 9780399244520

The Graves Family ISBN: 9780399240348

Pink and Say ISBN: 9780399226717

Thank You, Mr. Faulker ISBN: 9780399231667

*Other Picture Books That Address Same-Sex Relationships:

Newman, Leslea. 1989. Heather Has Two Mommies. Illus. by Diana Souza. Los Angeles, California: Alyson.

Parnell, Peter and Richardson, Justin. 2005. And Tango Makes Three. New York: Simon & Schuster.

Wilhoite, Michael. 1990. Daddy's Roommate. Boston, Massachusetts: Alyson Wonderland.

For More Information on This Topic Visit: http://www.alyson.com