Ma Dear's Aprons
Ma Dear's Aprons is a 1997 book by Patricia McKissack about the relationship between a son, David Earl, and his mother, Ma dear. Reception. "Booklist", reviewing "Ma Dear's Aprons", wrote "As with most loving memories, there is a softening of the harsh edges, but McKissack's words and Cooper's warm double-spread oil-wash paintings are true to the period. They show the exhausting work as well as the proud and loving bonds of family." The "School Library Journal" stated "The real story is Ma Dear's. Children who have this book read  to them will see an African-American woman whose life in the rural south of the early 1900s was difficult but lived with dignity and joy." "The Horn Book Magazine" found "There is little plot, but there is plenty of emotion and many details to attract a child. .. Text and illustrations together create a portrait of a family working hard to survive but also finding much to be joyful about." "Ma Dear's Aprons" has also been reviewed by "Kirkus Reviews", "Publishers Weekly", and the "Journal of Reading Education".