About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with feelings of 'not having enough' or is facing social pressure to fit in based on what they own. It is a deeply moving tool for children who have experienced the loss of a parent or are navigating the complexities of being different in a school setting. The story follows Minna, a young girl in an Appalachian coal-mining community who cannot afford a coat to start school. Her neighbors gather scraps of fabric to quilt her a coat, and while she is initially teased by classmates for her 'rag' garment, she wins them over by sharing the vibrant histories woven into every patch. This book celebrates the richness of memory, the strength of community, and the dignity found in resourcefulness. It is appropriate for children ages 5 to 10, offering a gentle but honest look at financial hardship and the power of storytelling to bridge social divides.
