All-of-a-Kind Family

Some of you have asked when I read and how I find the time to read so much. As to the later part, I don't know how to answer that question. If we're offering up comparisons, I read less than some of you and more than others. I just read. As for when I find the time - it is those blessed things called "nap times" and "bed time." That's when I read.

This afternoon, during the first half of naptime, I attempted to read a piece of modern fiction that I was planning to review over at 5 Minutes for Books. Not everything that I read gets reviewed and this will be one of those times. The team members only review books that they actually LIKE, approving of and don't mind supporting. You should never think anything less. If we don't like it, we don't review it. So I set this particular book down, unable to complete it even, and decided to relax with a childhood favorite of mine -- All-of-a-kind Family. Have you not read this book? Well, why!?

I picked up my (hardbound, 1951 ed.) copy back when I was 14 or so. I'm guessing at my age by my handwritten name inside. (I had bad penmanship and still do. In fact, it may have gotten worse!).

If you are unfamiliar with this story, it revolves around a Jewish family with five young girls (thus the "all-of-a-kind" family!) at the turn of the century. Author Syndney Taylor based the story on her own experiences growing up inside a Jewish family. This story is as educational as it is entertaining. And did I mention it's clean? I'm probably more aware of its squeaky cleanness today more than usual but still. It's good entertainment!

The five sisters do pretty much everything together but unlike stories such as The Bobbsey Twins, this Jewish family's life is written believably. This is a classic worth owning! The girls do not own books and are so delighted with their weekly visits to the library. There are brief spells of disobedience when Mama has to lay down some law, especially around the dinner table. The girls are required to be obedient and learn to be helpful, while at the same time are showered with love and affection. Also, the time spent with the family centers around the Jewish calendar of holidays which is quite fascinating as you see how the family celebrates things like Purim and Passover.

Written for ages 9-12 originally, I'd say the story suits a modern 7-10 year old audience but that's primarily due to the fact that we have such a loss of innocence that this story could quickly become outdated for today's young tween. It's sad, really, because this is a quality story!

Furthermore, it is a series (and yes, I own the whole thing -- just in case I ever have a girl!).

On the tailes of All-of-a-kind Family you'll find:

More All-Of-A-Kind Family (This book seems to be out-of-print so if you see a copy anywhere, snatch it up!)

All-of-a-Kind Family Uptown

All-of-a-Kind Family Downtown

Ella of All-of-a-Kind Family

If you haven't had a chance to read these stories, I whole heartedly recommend them. Today I'm grateful for a quick oppportunity to take a deep breath and cleanse my mind a bit. I felt the need to hit the "refresh" button internally and this book helped. Plus, I had fun!