Every Other Sunday

Observations from the lives of African American domestic workers—back in print Thursdays and Every Other Sunday Off is an exploration of the lives of African American domestic workers in cities throughout the United States during the mid-twentieth century. With dry wit and honesty, Vertamae Smart-Grosvenor relates the testimonies of maids, cooks, child care workers, and others as they discuss their relationships with their employers and their experiences on the job. She connects this work with popular culture, presenting Aunt Jemima, Mammies, Uncle Ben, and other charged figures through the eyes of domestic workers as opposed to their employers, and remembers her own family history (her mother and grandmother were domestic workers after migrating to Philadelphia from South Carolina). Interspersed with musings and interviews are historical references, quotations, and personal anecdotes that make this account all the more intimate, heartbreaking, and relevant.

The author describes how she worked her way up from scullery maid during the Depression to become one of England's finest cooks

Henry Cooper and his dog Pomegranate have two houses. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and every other weekend, they live with Mama in her new apartment, but on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and every other weekend, they live with Papa in his new house. Henry and Pomegranate are happy as they dance with Mama and sing with Papa, but Henry knows that sometimes Pomegranate gets confused and just wants to go . . . home. This gentle and accessible story about dealing with the many changes that come with divorce is beautifully brought to life by author Karen Stanton's vivid and memorable illustrations.

“Walk with him” was the heavenly command the author received after her beloved mate was diagnosed with dementia. She tried to obey to the best of her ability, not knowing how long and draining the journey would be. Let this caregiver take you along on her trek through a puzzling maze of challenges where she receives assistance, encouragement, and precious “God moments”—God’s hand in the details. This personal saga offers inspiration, encouragement, and enlightenment to those caring for, or interested in, someone with a long-term illness.