Sarah, Plain and Tall

MacLachlan, P. (1985). Sarah, Plain and Tall. New York: HarperCollins

Plot Description:This was a book that I actually had never heard of so I was interested in checking it out.  This is a short quick read that tells a wonderful story of two children who lost their mother at an early age.  They dearly miss having a mother around because the house was always so cheerful and full of song.  Even their father has stopped singing after their mother passed.  In order to change the situation, Jacob, their father, puts an ad in the paper for a new wife and mother for his children.  Sarah, from Maine, answers the ad and comes to live with the family for a month trial period. During her stay she misses her home and the sea which she longingly talks about.  The children are worried that she does not like them and will not stay so they are constantly worrying about how she feels about them or if she likes their house.  In the end she tells them that although she misses her home she would miss them more if she left. 

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance

Age Group: This book would be appropriate for grades 3-6.

Personal Thought:  This story highlights the fears, insecurities, and loneliness felt by children who only have one parent.  I think many children who had similar situations would be able to relate to the story and characters.

Subject/Themes: Family, Insecurity, Farming

Awards: 1986 Newberry Medal and the 1986 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction.