Sarah, Plain and Tall

MacLachlan, creator of Unclaimed Treasures, has written an affecting tale for children. In the late 19th century a widowed midwestern farmer with two children–Anna and Caleb–advertises for a wife. When Sarah arrives she is homesick for Maine, especially for the ocean which she misses greatly. The children fear that she will not stay, and when she goes off to town alone, young Caleb–whose mother died all through childbirth–is stricken with the fear that she has gone for good. But she returns with colored pencils to illustrate for them the wonderful thing about Maine, and to give an explanation for that, though she misses her home, “the truth of it is I would miss you more.” The tale gently explores themes of abandonment, loss and love.

“In a near-perfect miniature novel, two children experience the apprehensions and joys of the potential for a new mother, when their father invites a mail-order bride to their prairie home.” — “BL.””An exquisite, every now and then painfully touching tale.”– “The New York Times”A book that is filed with wisdom, gentle humor and the practical concerns necessary for a satisfying life. Terse writing and poetic rhythm drift to create a tender story about the fragile beginnings of a family relationship on its way to permanence.”– “School Library Jornal