Do you have memories of summertime days spent at a relative’s house? The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant is for any family that has ever crowded into a relative’s house for an extended period of time. It is for all those who have slept under the dining room table at grandma’s house because it was the only space available. Or for those who roll out a sleeping bag next to the cousins and are awakened in the wee hours of the following morning by the voices of their aunts and uncles.
The illustrations in The Relatives Came make the story extra special. They provide so much relatable detail to anyone who has ever embarked on a distant journey to see their relatives. The process of packing a car to the overloaded point; the packing of a cooler with drinks and sandwiches; the crawling into the car before the sun even begins to crest the horizon. And then, the hours upon hours of driving. Around the bend in the road; through the mountains; bumping along one long road after another.
Until you finally arrive. The open arms of all of your relatives are ready to bestow hug after hug. The days of your visit pass quickly with lots of rounds of eating, talking, sleeping, and breathing. The days are full of projects, music, picnics, and gardening. All too soon the days of the visit come to an end. Sadly, it is time for the relatives to pack up.
The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant cleverly captures the essence of what a summertime family reunion is all about. Cynthia Rylant elevates the importance of simple time spent with extended family creating memories that last a lifetime. Read and enjoy The Relatives Came.