The Keeping Quilt

The Keeping Quilt by Patricia Polacco was written in 1988. The book is about a family of immigrants that came to America from Russia. Patricia tells the story to her daughter Traci Denise of how her Great-Gramma Anna immigrated to America. Patricia's great grandmother Anna was just a young girl when she came to America. Anna learned to speak English and would interpret for her family. The only thing Anna had left of back home were her dress and babushka. When Anna grows out of her dress she feels like she is leaving Russia behind. Her mother takes the dress and sews a quilt. As the story continues the quilt is used by various family members during ceremonies and celebrations. It was used as a blanket, a huppa (wedding canopy), and table cloth. I thought the part in the story when the quilt was used to keep Anna warm as she passed away was touching. The title of the book fits perfectly as the quilt is passed down from generation to generation.

The Keeping Quilt is a heartfelt story that is rich in culture, diversity, and helps one to appreciate family traditions.