Coming on Home Soon

During World War II, Ada Ruth's mother must leave their rural home to work in Chicago, where women are needed to help with the war effort. Ada Ruth stays behind with her grandmother, marking the first time she has been separated from her mother for an extended period. Through letters and small moments shared between Ada Ruth and her grandmother, the story follows their daily life as they wait for news from Chicago. A stray cat that appears at their door becomes significant to Ada Ruth during this period of uncertainty. The narrative captures the emotions of wartime separation, hope, and family bonds during a pivotal moment in American history. Through spare text and muted illustrations, the book examines themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the ways families maintain connections despite physical distance.

Readers connect emotionally with this picture book's portrayal of a mother-daughter separation during WWII. Parents and teachers note it opens discussions about handling temporary family separations. What readers liked: - E.B. Lewis's watercolor illustrations capture mood and emotion - Historical context teaches children about women's roles in WWII - Grandmother character provides comfort and stability - Poetic, sparse text that young children can follow What readers disliked: - Some found the story too melancholy for young children - A few noted the ending felt abrupt - Several mentioned children needed additional historical context to understand the setting Ratings: Goodreads: 4.17/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (90+ ratings) Kirkus Reviews: Starred review Review quotes: "The illustrations alone tell the story" - Elementary school librarian on Goodreads "My 5-year-old asks to read this often, especially when missing her dad" - Parent reviewer on Amazon

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🌟 Author Jacqueline Woodson was named the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature (2018-2019), promoting her platform "READING = HOPE × CHANGE." 📚 The book is set during World War II when many African American women found work in traditionally male jobs, including Chicago's railroad yards. 🎨 The illustrator, E.B. Lewis, used watercolor techniques to create the book's atmospheric, emotional scenes, earning the book a Caldecott Honor in 2005. 🏆 The story was inspired by real women who left their families behind to find work in northern cities during the "Great Migration" of African Americans from the South. 💌 The book's central theme of separation between mother and child resonates with modern military families and others who experience temporary parental absence, making it a valuable resource for counselors and families.