Ma Dear's Aprons

Ma Dear's Aprons is a book authored by Patricia McKissack in 1997 that explores the bond between a mother, Ma Dear, and her son, David Earl.

Reception

Booklist commended Ma Dear's Aprons for its genuine depiction of the era, drawing attention to McKissack's expressive language and Cooper's inviting oil-wash illustrations that capture both the demanding labor and the strong familial connections. The School Library Journal highlighted the portrayal of Ma Dear’s proud and joyful existence in the rural Southern United States during the early twentieth century.

According to The Horn Book Magazine, although the storyline is straightforward, the book’s emotional resonance and intricate artwork vividly illustrate a diligent family experiencing happiness amid adversity.

Reviews from Kirkus Reviews praised the authentic depiction of the mother-son dynamic, characterized by a balance of discipline and affection, complemented by Cooper’s moving visuals. Publishers Weekly described it as a gentle narrative centered on love and devotion. Furthermore, the Journal of Reading Education acknowledged its importance in presenting African American cultural heritage through illustrated literature.

Awards

• 1997 CCBC Choice
• 1998 Charlotte Zolotow Award - highly commended
• 2001 NCTE Kaleidoscope book