The year is 1943, and two cousins—Leanna in Chicago and Elizabeth in Washington, D.C.—are getting ready for the Easter Parade. Even though Leanna doesn't quite know what to expect, she can barely contain her excitement.

For Elizabeth and her mother, getting ready for the parade is another reminder of how much they miss Elizabeth's father, who is away fighting in the war. Money is tight, and they can't get any new finery. But a long-distance phone call—a rarity in those days—from a chipper Leanna and an important letter from overseas are enough to make Easter something special this year.

Eloise Greenfield's moving story demonstrates the strength that love and hope give to women at all times. Jan Spivey Gilchrist's illustrations reflect the beauty and inspiration of this shared experience between two cousins and their mothers at Easter time.

From the dust jacket