Just Us Women

I just received a copy I ordered for my granddaughter's 4th birthday. What a delight it was to reread the marvelous story of leisure, of fun in simple, everyday activities, and of a young girl's great adventures with her aunt. I was fortunate to have one of those aunt's when I was growing up. This book was a favorite of my daughters when they were young. Now independent women in their 20s, I can find joy in sharing this delightful story, with beautiful illustrations, with my grandchildren.

Forget the kids. This is one of those books that I picked up for them that I like. "Just Us Women" is a story about companionship. Saturday morning is jump-off time. Aunt Martha and I are going to drive all the way to North Carolina In her new car. Aunt Martha says, "No boys and no men, Just us women." This is a short book (about 30 pages) which expresses the love that can exist beyond the nuclear family. In this case, a love across generations between a little girl and her aunt. Once they are away from everyone else, they celebrate what the share in common; a love of moving slowly down country back roads, taking their time, enjoying flea markets where they "buy all the junk we like"; stopping to walk in the rain; buying peaches from a farmer's stand and eating breakfast at night. Five Stars. [A+]. Beautifully written. My five year old can't really appreciate this book yet, but it struck a cord with me and I can't wait to add it to our shelves to read together in the future.

I loved reading this book to my daughter. It's the simple story of a young girl's travels with her aunt and illustrates how exciting and adventurous simple things like having dinner on the road or visiting a flea market can be for a youngster. As a mom, I also liked my daughter being exposed to the idea that women could have adventures together as "just us women."

Every child should have a favorite aunt or uncle. Ms. Gaines's simple story reflects on the relationship between the niece and the aunt. It is obvious by their actions that there exists a strong bond between the two.Children will relate to the easily recognizable activities involved in the preparation and execution of the trip. The story also demonstrates, in the subtle manner, the independence of women. I find that aspect of the book to be one of its strengths.The illustrations clearly show the story's subject matter. Aunt Martha is a very attractive young woman who appears to be successful; the niece is an average child with braids and "glowing" eyes. Some of the drawings are reminiscent of camera angles.In true picture book fashion, there is a minimum of words. However, this does not lessen the book's value. Given the proper motivation, the young reader can supply HIS/HER own words to the captivating illustrations on the pages.

Beautiful illustrations trace the journey of a young girl and her aunt as they travel to North Carolina in the aunt's new car. Very easy to read and a truly heartwarming story.