Imperfections

The book was recieved timely and in great shape. The book is recommended for ages 9-13 but I found that I enjoyed the book and so have my friends (aged 40). Great book.

I've been to Shaker Village close to Harrodsburg,Kentucky, where this story takes place. Once on a school field trip with a bunch of third-graders, and it was so interesting, my husband and I made a trip back to take it all in in a more leisurely fashion. It is no longer home to the Shaker community, but the buildings are preserved and they are beautiful in a stark, no-frills way. The story of "Imperfections" brings out the flaws of such a community, mainly that they expected too much of themselves and each other. The 12-year old girl who is dropped off at the Village during ghe Civil War, along with her baby sister and brother, sees the "imperfections" of trying to be perfect. A good story, no neatly wrapped up ending-- I wish there had been, but very touching account of life at Shaker Village.

This was a very interesting book about the Shaker community in the 1860s that was carefully researched. The author did a great job describing Shaker daily living which included attention to cleanliness; delicious, abundant food; simplicity and utility in all its designs; the way hard work keeps a mind occupied. She also did a wonderful job of making known the hearts of her characters, especially Rosemary. It was well worth the read.