Grandma Dowdel

I am in a book group. Last time I chose a book I wanted to read, it turned out to be 521 pages of textbook type. It was thick and nobody finished it by the meeting. I'm not sure that anybody but me finished it at all.

Consequently, for my current turn, I went to my local library, marched into the Children's room, and begged for a suggestion. I was introduced to Richard Peck (figuratively.)
Our book group agreed to read two books. A Long Way from Chicago is one. See the link for discussion topics.
The other is The Teacher's Funeral. Again, see the link.
I rather enjoyed both books. He has some delightful characters and a great way of telling his stories. My favorite from these books is Grandma Dowdel. Favorite minor character, either Aunt Maud, Aunt Fanny Hamline, or perhaps Effie Wilcox.
If you know the books, tell me what year, what event, or what character is your favorite.

As they say on Reading Rainbow, you don't have to take my word for it.

And obviously I have a huge opinion of my own chalk-drawing skill. You should see me in construction paper. Crayola is my true artistic medium.