Inclusive Literature - Module 6

Bibliography

Polacco, Patricia. 2009. In Our Mothers’ House. New York: Philomel Books: ISBN 9780399250767

Plot Summary

In Our Mothers’ House is the story of a non-traditional family and the love that is shared among the three adopted children. Same-sex parents provide a loving home and life filled with memories for their African American daughter, Asian American son, and Caucasian daughter in a neighborhood that is, for the most part, very supportive of their chosen lifestyle.

Critical Analysis

The story of how Meema and Marma came to be parents is told from the perspective of their oldest daughter who is African American. She shares the story of her adoption and that of her Asian American brother, Will, and Caucasian sister, Millie. Recalling all of the times her mothers were present for important events in her life, and how they each continuously showed their love by cooking, or sewing, or even wearing dresses to a special event helps the reader to see the level of nurturing provided by both parents. Daily events in this household take place just as if they were taking place in any other household with the exception of occasional confrontation by a neighbor, Mrs. Lockner, who does not approve of “what Meema and Marma are”. Meema and Marma simply tell their children that she is “full of fear and doesn’t understand us”.
Although direct references to lesbian relationships are not included in the text, they are implied in a way that children can understand that the author wants to convey the message that having a different family structure doesn’t mean that something is wrong with a family. There is much more that makes up a family than a mom, a dad, children, and pets. Pollaco does a wonderful job in conveying this message through her choice of words in the text and the beautiful illustrations that include a wide range of facial features and characteristics in the extended family members, friends and neighbors.

Review Excerpts

“The eldest of three siblings (each a different race) adopted by a lesbian couple recalls an idyllic childhood. The heavy-handed message is that same-sex parents are just like everybody else, but what real family is this perfect? The nostalgic adult tone and dearth of actual plot severely limit the child appeal of this well-intentioned story played out in Polacco's recognizable illustrations.” Horn Book

“Over the years Patricia Polacco has graced us with many delightful stories of family relationships and special friendships. This title is just such a story, but with a twist. Three children from different parts of the world are adopted by two married women. Although words such as gay, lesbian, sexuality, or same-sex marriage are never used, the reader will make the connection as the story unfolds. The mothers are always there for special moments in the lives of their children, and readers see glimpses of a nurturing extended family and friends. One mother in the community is not so friendly, but Polacco handles this moment in a careful, studied, and easy way, as if hatred and bigotry do not exist. The three children celebrate many happy moments in their family home, and all three return regularly after they are grown. After the death of both mothers, the son and his family move into the house. 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.” Library Media Connection

Connections

Young readers and others selecting books for reading aloud might consider other books conveying the message of family diversity by reading these selections:

Garden, Nancy. Molly’s Family. Ill. Sharon Wooding. ISBN 9780374350024
Newman, Leslea. Daddy, Papa, and Me. Ill. Carol Thompson. ISBN 9781582462622
Parr, Todd. The Family Book. ISBN 9780316738965