The Bobtails and the Cousins features four siblings adjusting to their new lives with their adoptive parents. This middle-grade historical fiction by Arthur Yeomans is the sequel to The Bobtails Meet the Preacher’s Kid.* If you haven’t read the first book, “Bobtails” is not their last name; it’s a name given to the children by the pastor’s son.
The Bobtails struggle with calling Grace and Mr. Thacker “Ma” and “Pa,” which makes the story believable. I like how Grace lets herself be vulnerable, has doubts about her role as a mother, and even allows herself to cry. The oldest, Robert, still grieves his parents’ death, and one time he weeps, though briefly. Like in the previous book, he thinks he should stiffen his lip. Roger, though, progresses in his grieving journey. He used to deny that his parents were dead, but now he accepts Mr. Thacker as his father. Grieving is different for everyone, so we should be patient with Robert, even if he doesn’t heal like Roger.
During the summer, the Bobtails’ three uncles and their families come to visit. The book is divided into three parts, with one part representing one family. Uncle Robert’s family is citified, so they must get used to the Bobtails’ farming lifestyle. Members of Uncle John’s family tend to be lazy, but sons Jeremy and Richard and daughter April learn to work. Richard has a weight problem and is teased for it, but rather than feel hopeless, he aims for fitness, which will help him do more of what he wants. Among Uncle Roger’s family, one child who stands out is Cynthia, who has a leg brace. She demonstrates that she doesn’t need to be bitter about her disability but rather live life.
Esther, the second oldest of the Bobtails, experiences growth, too. She gets convicted when Grace warns her not to spank children while angry (This book takes place in the nineteenth century, so don’t be surprised when you see grown-ups and even children use physical punishment.). Esther apologizes to a cousin for being angry while spanking her, but not for correcting her bad behavior.
As Yeomans recounts the adventures of the Bobtails and their kin, he doesn’t shy away from challenging topics. Rosemary, Uncle Robert’s wife, takes offense at the pastor’s teaching on being fruitful and multiplying. Back home, she went to committees and had limited time with her family. She thinks having more children will interfere with her social-climbing pursuit. After her family vacation, though, she changes her mind and expects another child. Children indeed have value and must be loved and protected, but I will remark that not everyone is called to have huge families. People like Corrie ten Boom, Dietrich Boenhoffer, and Amy Carmichael are examples of that. So, everyone is free to discern what the Bobtails’ pastor says. Even Geoffrey, the pastor’s kid, says he isn’t obligated to agree with everything his father teaches.
This book encourages working toward your goals, displays the joy of learning, and introduces new vocabulary words. For instance, “cousine” means a female cousin, and “niblings” means “nieces and nephews.” The story is sprinkled with characters reading and reciting passages from the Bible and old literature. One enjoyable piece of literature is the poem “Mischief” by Jane Taylor.** Also, as you read the Bobtails’ series, you’ll see a recurring element of train rides, which adds to the fun.
Pick up a copy of this book, and you’ll start deep discussions on faith, family, and the importance of work. Not to mention you’ll read witty quotes, witness a Gospel message, and ride trains with your imagination.
*I wrote a review on The Bobtails Meet the Preacher’s Kid, too. It’s published on Story Warren, and here’s the link:
**And here’s the link to the poem mentioned:
K.A. Ramstad 