Every kid's story starts with the Mother. Dead mothers, annoying mothers, caring mothers, absent mothers, terrible mothers, absolutely fucking insane mothers... the books we read in childhood throw an endless parade of these women at us, and here is an appreciation post for all - no that would be impossible, rather for some of our book mothers:

I start with Ma Ingalls. Caroline. An amazing super-mom- I remember reading and being absolutely bowled over by her endless skills- churning! cleaning! cooking wonderful food! teaching! making beautiful big dresses! wearing big beautiful dresses, and dancing in them! Having beautiful children! Putting up with Pa Ingalls! Never being angry! The list is endless. I secretly wished my mom was more home-making wonder-woman like Caroline Ingalls. Next, I offer:

The nameless (I think?) mother in The Railway Children .

Despite having no name, Mother was a driving force of the story.…