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Austin Family Chronicles #1
Meet the Austins
A revised edition, including one section of the manuscript that was omitted in the original publication. Vicky Austin and her siblings must adjust to the presence of a new member of the household-Maggy Hamilton, who is orphaned when her father is killed in a plane crash. Maggy is at first petulant and spoiled, but gradually opens her heart to the Austins to become one of the family.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1960
About the author
Madeleine L'Engle
193 books8,766 followersMadeleine L'Engle was an American writer of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and young adult fiction, including A Wrinkle in Time and its sequels: A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, and An Acceptable Time. Her works reflect both her Christian faith and her strong interest in modern science.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 615 reviews
June 3, 2022
Madeleine L'Engle's Meet the Austins, and what can I say about this novel, but that it is a favourite, and will always be thus. I love everything about it, from the loving and episodic (but never tedious) descriptions of family life (and while some of these episodes might well and indeed be more than a bit dated, this has always been part of, or rather much of the charm for me), the nuanced and for a children's book lushly and highly developed character descriptions and yes, even the messages presented (I very much appreciate that issues such as death, grief and the like are covered, are investigated, without dwelling on them, without turning Meet the Austins either morbid or depressing).
I know that there are likely some (if not even many) readers or reviewers who might chafe at the fact that the Austin children (and Maggy as well once she joins the family) do at times receive spankings, in other words, physical discipline. However, this is never overdone and considering that Meet the Austins was penned in 1960, really not all that surprising for its time either. And really, when you consider that Maggy was basically neglected, and while provided for with money and toys, but never even remotely emotionally cared for, never loved until she is taken in by the Austin family when left an orphan, a bit of care, of critical discipline, and even perhaps an occasional spanking, would have been a positive; and when Maggy does end up on the receiving side of a real spanking (for some rather nasty and vile tricks she pulls in Dr. Austin's office), it actually closes the gap pf unfamiliarity and both increases and cements her connection to the Austins, makes her part of the family life she had never before experienced.
With regard to the individual characters, I for one think that Madeleine l'Engle has really outdone herself with especially Vicky Austin, the narrator (her voice shines brightly and glowingly, painting a realistic picture, but at the same time, also showing her as not being perfect, which especially her bicycling accident demonstrates). But truly, all of the characters presented are wonderfully and realistically conceptualised, a family that I would have loved to have been part of, a family I would consider a glowing example of what being a loving and supportive family means and is (although as a bit of an introvert, the amount of noise the Austins tend to and joufully generate, might have proved a trifle disconcerting and distracting for me). Most highly recommended and not just for children!
Oh and as an aside, I would simply love to have the kind of library system that Vicky's grandfather has created for himself. He is obviously a man absolutely and completely after my own heart (one for whom books are massively more important than furniture, as even his sleeping quarters are spartan and must come second place to his books, his reading). But oh how I wish I also had his photographic memory of place, as when I place books into bookshelves, they tend to disappear from my field of vision and remembrance (asI actually recall books better if they are stacked on the floor, which often tends to make my home a bit of an obstacle course at best).
This particular edition of Meet the Austins (with its sweet and poignant cover) does not contain the so-called missing chapter, The Anti-Muffins, but many (actually most) of the more recent publications of Meet the Austins (including the Kindle version) do incorporate it. Having read and yes, enjoyed, the former as a separate and independently published short work of fiction a few years ago, I am happy that it is now being included within the novel itself (and kind of flabbergasted that Madeleine l'Engle was originally asked to remove this chapter, but considering the time period, and some of the issues presented, such as the fighting John and Maggy engage in and that the Austins create an actual club to protest general attitudes of to them unacceptable adult behaviours and attitudes, not all that surprising). And I actually do NOT in any way believe that you are reading only part of Meet the Austins if your copy of the book does not contain The Anti-Muffins (and it generally will not with editions published prior to 1997). However, if this happens to be the case, you should at least consider reading it separately, as The Anti-Muffins is both interesting in and of itself (and for its time pretty majorly avant garde) and does tie up some loose ends, especially with regard to Maggy and her increasing level of acceptance by and in the Austin clan (and their friends and acquaintances).
I know that there are likely some (if not even many) readers or reviewers who might chafe at the fact that the Austin children (and Maggy as well once she joins the family) do at times receive spankings, in other words, physical discipline. However, this is never overdone and considering that Meet the Austins was penned in 1960, really not all that surprising for its time either. And really, when you consider that Maggy was basically neglected, and while provided for with money and toys, but never even remotely emotionally cared for, never loved until she is taken in by the Austin family when left an orphan, a bit of care, of critical discipline, and even perhaps an occasional spanking, would have been a positive; and when Maggy does end up on the receiving side of a real spanking (for some rather nasty and vile tricks she pulls in Dr. Austin's office), it actually closes the gap pf unfamiliarity and both increases and cements her connection to the Austins, makes her part of the family life she had never before experienced.
With regard to the individual characters, I for one think that Madeleine l'Engle has really outdone herself with especially Vicky Austin, the narrator (her voice shines brightly and glowingly, painting a realistic picture, but at the same time, also showing her as not being perfect, which especially her bicycling accident demonstrates). But truly, all of the characters presented are wonderfully and realistically conceptualised, a family that I would have loved to have been part of, a family I would consider a glowing example of what being a loving and supportive family means and is (although as a bit of an introvert, the amount of noise the Austins tend to and joufully generate, might have proved a trifle disconcerting and distracting for me). Most highly recommended and not just for children!
Oh and as an aside, I would simply love to have the kind of library system that Vicky's grandfather has created for himself. He is obviously a man absolutely and completely after my own heart (one for whom books are massively more important than furniture, as even his sleeping quarters are spartan and must come second place to his books, his reading). But oh how I wish I also had his photographic memory of place, as when I place books into bookshelves, they tend to disappear from my field of vision and remembrance (asI actually recall books better if they are stacked on the floor, which often tends to make my home a bit of an obstacle course at best).
This particular edition of Meet the Austins (with its sweet and poignant cover) does not contain the so-called missing chapter, The Anti-Muffins, but many (actually most) of the more recent publications of Meet the Austins (including the Kindle version) do incorporate it. Having read and yes, enjoyed, the former as a separate and independently published short work of fiction a few years ago, I am happy that it is now being included within the novel itself (and kind of flabbergasted that Madeleine l'Engle was originally asked to remove this chapter, but considering the time period, and some of the issues presented, such as the fighting John and Maggy engage in and that the Austins create an actual club to protest general attitudes of to them unacceptable adult behaviours and attitudes, not all that surprising). And I actually do NOT in any way believe that you are reading only part of Meet the Austins if your copy of the book does not contain The Anti-Muffins (and it generally will not with editions published prior to 1997). However, if this happens to be the case, you should at least consider reading it separately, as The Anti-Muffins is both interesting in and of itself (and for its time pretty majorly avant garde) and does tie up some loose ends, especially with regard to Maggy and her increasing level of acceptance by and in the Austin clan (and their friends and acquaintances).
September 4, 2007
This is one of my favorite books from childhood. I first read it in 1962 when I was 9. I still enjoy the story, and all of Madeleine L'Engle's books for that matter, but I think it's probably somewhat dated; kids today might not enjoy it that much, unless they are reading it as a period piece. It's the story of a family told from the point of view of the 12 year old daughter. This is the first book about the Austin family, just as A Wrinkle In Time is the first book about Meg Murray and her family. In L'Engle's other children's books these 2 families tend to run into each other and I find it great fun to keep up with them.
And this is one time where I think the original cover (that I just uploaded and changed my reivew to this edition) should not have been changed. It's beautiful and timeless.
And this is one time where I think the original cover (that I just uploaded and changed my reivew to this edition) should not have been changed. It's beautiful and timeless.
March 5, 2014
Because I probably won't find time to write the thorough review this gem deserves, here are a few quick thoughts:
I loved the story. I felt an immediate bond with the characters and was so caught up in the story. I really appreciated how the story dealt with some difficult, real-life subjects while maintaining warmth, heart and humor. I wish I really could meet the Austin family ;-) And go visit Grandpa and his amazing home--I think I'm adding The Stables to my dream-libraries list, especially since it's beside the sea! :->
I loved the story. I felt an immediate bond with the characters and was so caught up in the story. I really appreciated how the story dealt with some difficult, real-life subjects while maintaining warmth, heart and humor. I wish I really could meet the Austin family ;-) And go visit Grandpa and his amazing home--I think I'm adding The Stables to my dream-libraries list, especially since it's beside the sea! :->
August 10, 2017
Written in episodic form, this is the introduction to L'Engle's second favorite family, the Austins. Unlike many of her books, this one has no science fiction elements. It is the story of a family of 4 children, 2 dogs, and a bunch of cats, living in a rambling house on a hill in small town New England. Little of consequence happens: an orphaned child joins the family and behaves badly, the narrator falls off her bike and breaks her arm, ice storms rage, meals are cooked and eaten, books are read, and siblings squabble. It is gloriously cozy.
I vacillated between 3 & 4 stars for this one. I liked it a lot - it is the entry into the series, and I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Vicky and her brothers and sisters.
I vacillated between 3 & 4 stars for this one. I liked it a lot - it is the entry into the series, and I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Vicky and her brothers and sisters.
March 6, 2022
L’Engle paints an appealing picture of a large, noisy family – doctor father, mother, four children, two dogs (one a Great Dane) plus cats – that copes with challenges large and small and is bound by love and warmth. An ice storm that takes out the electricity is an excuse to hunker down, play music and eat food cooked over an open fire. One of the children going missing is temporarily scary but reminds them to take care of and cherish each other. The biggest disruption of all is when Maggy, the child of a family friend, is orphaned and comes to stay with the Austins, perhaps permanently. Their circle is strong enough to expand.
The narrator is 14-year-old Vicky, whose feelings are relatable teenage ones. I wearied of the old-fashioned, goody-goody tone, though. This was a morally didactic project, to teach young people about empathizing with others and being grateful for what you have. Through Grandfather, a mystical scientist, L’Engle even works in some Christian propaganda: “The search for knowledge and truth can be the most exciting thing there is as long as it takes you towards God instead of away from Him.” The nuclear family is held up as the be-all and end-all, and corporal punishment is presented as a valid parenting option without comment.
Though I won’t read the sequels, it is charming how this captures a nostalgic view of childhood and the day to day versus the milestones you remember. I appreciated the words about vacations (I never wanted summer camp to end): “We wanted it to last for ever just the way it was, but Grandfather said the wonderful things couldn’t last for ever, or they would be dulled by repetition and cease being wonderful”. And the last line: “Maybe that’s the best part of going away for a vacation: coming home again.”
The narrator is 14-year-old Vicky, whose feelings are relatable teenage ones. I wearied of the old-fashioned, goody-goody tone, though. This was a morally didactic project, to teach young people about empathizing with others and being grateful for what you have. Through Grandfather, a mystical scientist, L’Engle even works in some Christian propaganda: “The search for knowledge and truth can be the most exciting thing there is as long as it takes you towards God instead of away from Him.” The nuclear family is held up as the be-all and end-all, and corporal punishment is presented as a valid parenting option without comment.
Though I won’t read the sequels, it is charming how this captures a nostalgic view of childhood and the day to day versus the milestones you remember. I appreciated the words about vacations (I never wanted summer camp to end): “We wanted it to last for ever just the way it was, but Grandfather said the wonderful things couldn’t last for ever, or they would be dulled by repetition and cease being wonderful”. And the last line: “Maybe that’s the best part of going away for a vacation: coming home again.”
April 3, 2020
Uuuu, I feel so nice and fuzzy about this book, I just hugged it and imagined I hugged each Austin in turn🌞
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Another gem by Madeleine L'Engle, and again, so surprisingly unique and yet so much like her, worldview, style, prose iand all...I just love everything by her.
Basically, the story is about the Austins, a family of six, parents included, pets excluded (among these there are two absolutely delightful dogs with even more glorious names, Mr. Rochester and Colette, and an assortment of cats), with an uncle and a-not-really-an-aunt-yet-so-much-like-one, a wonderful bibliomaniac grandfather, "an adopted" mischief-maker Maggie, first-rate neighbours and some not so much, a MR JENKINS (heads up all Time Quintet fans) and their everyday life adventures, some more tragical (there is death and grief outside the family, yet still painful to observe), while others very entertaining and very much ordinary (ice storms with no electricity, dressing-up-gone-awry, a good, old-fashioned kid "society", wholesome music, and plenty more). I hardly think anyone would not like them (the Austins and their pets, and thier everyday adventures I mean), they are so humane and their struggles and questions about life, death, growing up, their prayers (particularly Rob's series of God bless😍), M/muffins😅 very near to home, very genuine and the answers they get to some of these questions satisfyingly decent.
I just love every bit of it 😊
-----------------------
Another gem by Madeleine L'Engle, and again, so surprisingly unique and yet so much like her, worldview, style, prose iand all...I just love everything by her.
Basically, the story is about the Austins, a family of six, parents included, pets excluded (among these there are two absolutely delightful dogs with even more glorious names, Mr. Rochester and Colette, and an assortment of cats), with an uncle and a-not-really-an-aunt-yet-so-much-like-one, a wonderful bibliomaniac grandfather, "an adopted" mischief-maker Maggie, first-rate neighbours and some not so much, a MR JENKINS (heads up all Time Quintet fans) and their everyday life adventures, some more tragical (there is death and grief outside the family, yet still painful to observe), while others very entertaining and very much ordinary (ice storms with no electricity, dressing-up-gone-awry, a good, old-fashioned kid "society", wholesome music, and plenty more). I hardly think anyone would not like them (the Austins and their pets, and thier everyday adventures I mean), they are so humane and their struggles and questions about life, death, growing up, their prayers (particularly Rob's series of God bless😍), M/muffins😅 very near to home, very genuine and the answers they get to some of these questions satisfyingly decent.
I just love every bit of it 😊
September 22, 2016
We really enjoyed this story. The title is apt because you did feel you were meeting and getting to know this family. We loved the detail of day to day life and relationships, the laughs and the squabbles and ups and downs of family life. We enjoyed looking into their life, the picnics on mountains and stargazing. We particularly liked the visit to their grandfather's, his house and location sound perfect, and what better use for disused horse stalls ! I started to look at a family tree at the end of the book but quickly stopped as I think this gives some spoilers !
February 13, 2008
Reading L'Engle's memoir Two-Part Invention put me in the mood to reread this old favorite for the umpteenth time. The Austin family shaped my ideal of family life: the classical music as soundtrack, the bustling happy chaos, the spirited discussions of literature and art and religion, the homey rhythms. Little did I know when I fell in love with this book, this family, as a teenager that it was shaping the course of my future: the homeschooling ideal we strive for (and do not always achieve, just as the Austins are not always the 'ideal' family—fighting, fumbling, making mistakes) looks very much like Austin family life.
December 2, 2012
THE SUNDAY FAMILY READ
When Meet the Austins was published in 1960, Madeleine L'Engle was two years away from publishing her break out book A Wrinkle in Time. Somewhere I read that she was quite discouraged as an author at this time, even though she had been writing stories since childhood. She got published but prior to Wrinkle in Time her books had not sold well. In the long run, Meet the Austins grew into her second most well-known series.
I loved this book. It has all the charm of my favorite childhood book, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, but is set in contemporary times. L'Engle had a rather sad and lonely childhood, spent mostly in boarding schools. She must have channeled all her longing for a close family life into this book.
The Austins live in comfortable but not overly prosperous conditions in a rambling house somewhere outside of New York City. Mr Austin is a medical doctor, Mrs Austin a stay-at-home mom. Four kids, two dogs, several cats. Classical music, books (their mother reads to all four every night before bed even though the littlest is four and the oldest in high school.) An uncle who lives in the city is an artist and Mrs Austin's BFF, Elena, is a touring pianist.
Into this idyllic scene comes seven-year-old Maggy, who has just been orphaned and has no where to go. Maggy was the daughter of one of Elena's friends but since Elena is often touring, the Austins take her in. The little orphan is a spoiled brat who behaves badly so the Austins tame her with love and their special brand of discipline, but not before she manages to bring turmoil and even danger to the family.
The story is predictable, narrated in the first person of Vicky, an observant 12-year-old who sounds much like L'Engle, but the tone is an indescribable mix of common sense and warmth. I can't imagine any reader not falling for this family and wanting to be part of it.
Interesting biographical fact: L'Engle and her husband adopted a seven-year-old girl in 1957. The child's parent who left her an orphan had been a close friend of Madeleine's, who by 1957 had a 10-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son.
When Meet the Austins was published in 1960, Madeleine L'Engle was two years away from publishing her break out book A Wrinkle in Time. Somewhere I read that she was quite discouraged as an author at this time, even though she had been writing stories since childhood. She got published but prior to Wrinkle in Time her books had not sold well. In the long run, Meet the Austins grew into her second most well-known series.
I loved this book. It has all the charm of my favorite childhood book, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, but is set in contemporary times. L'Engle had a rather sad and lonely childhood, spent mostly in boarding schools. She must have channeled all her longing for a close family life into this book.
The Austins live in comfortable but not overly prosperous conditions in a rambling house somewhere outside of New York City. Mr Austin is a medical doctor, Mrs Austin a stay-at-home mom. Four kids, two dogs, several cats. Classical music, books (their mother reads to all four every night before bed even though the littlest is four and the oldest in high school.) An uncle who lives in the city is an artist and Mrs Austin's BFF, Elena, is a touring pianist.
Into this idyllic scene comes seven-year-old Maggy, who has just been orphaned and has no where to go. Maggy was the daughter of one of Elena's friends but since Elena is often touring, the Austins take her in. The little orphan is a spoiled brat who behaves badly so the Austins tame her with love and their special brand of discipline, but not before she manages to bring turmoil and even danger to the family.
The story is predictable, narrated in the first person of Vicky, an observant 12-year-old who sounds much like L'Engle, but the tone is an indescribable mix of common sense and warmth. I can't imagine any reader not falling for this family and wanting to be part of it.
Interesting biographical fact: L'Engle and her husband adopted a seven-year-old girl in 1957. The child's parent who left her an orphan had been a close friend of Madeleine's, who by 1957 had a 10-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son.
September 7, 2015
3.5 stars.
Despite my enduring love for Madeleine L'Engle and my obsession with her lesser-known heroine Vicky Austin, for some reason I never quite got to Meet the Austins. Maybe because I knew that it didn't involve any of the scientific elements that feature in so many of her later novels, maybe because Vicky is only 12 in this novel. I'm grateful that my book club forced me to finally read it! Meet the Austins is a very sweet middle-grade, and a great introduction to the loving, warm Austin family. Chapters are essentially episodes in the Austins' lives as they bring spoiled orphan Maggy into their fold while trying to maintain the family traditions of reading, music, and food that pervades all of their books. It's a book that is very much a contemporary, and one where you see L'Engle developing her talent at telling family stories. It's cute, it's honest about the difficulties of welcoming someone new into your family, all while seeing the beauty of the world, and having it change before your eyes. Die-hard L'Engle fans might be interested to know that this book was published a full two years before A Wrinkle in Time, and compared to that seminal book, it does seem very "ordinary" - but it does feature some interesting discussions of vegetarianism (from a kid's eyes), and a little bit of the science and family that will play a bigger part in the lives of the Austins later. A really enjoyable read.
Despite my enduring love for Madeleine L'Engle and my obsession with her lesser-known heroine Vicky Austin, for some reason I never quite got to Meet the Austins. Maybe because I knew that it didn't involve any of the scientific elements that feature in so many of her later novels, maybe because Vicky is only 12 in this novel. I'm grateful that my book club forced me to finally read it! Meet the Austins is a very sweet middle-grade, and a great introduction to the loving, warm Austin family. Chapters are essentially episodes in the Austins' lives as they bring spoiled orphan Maggy into their fold while trying to maintain the family traditions of reading, music, and food that pervades all of their books. It's a book that is very much a contemporary, and one where you see L'Engle developing her talent at telling family stories. It's cute, it's honest about the difficulties of welcoming someone new into your family, all while seeing the beauty of the world, and having it change before your eyes. Die-hard L'Engle fans might be interested to know that this book was published a full two years before A Wrinkle in Time, and compared to that seminal book, it does seem very "ordinary" - but it does feature some interesting discussions of vegetarianism (from a kid's eyes), and a little bit of the science and family that will play a bigger part in the lives of the Austins later. A really enjoyable read.
January 30, 2020
So, so lovely. Don't read this is you are not a fan of good books, good music, good conversation, faith and examples of inspiring mentoring.... this book contains a healthy dose of all of these ingredients!
I loved this even more than a Wrinkle in Time and plan to read the next books in this series!
I loved this even more than a Wrinkle in Time and plan to read the next books in this series!
May 14, 2018
My mother assured me that I had loved this in childhood and as soon as I got into it, I remembered it strongly. Good to re-read and one that I hope to continue the series (did I read those? Stay tuned for my memory.)
January 10, 2021
I loved this family and can’t wait to read more of their stories. Madeleine’s writing is beautiful and this one comes without all the science and space stuff that’s a bit over my head in the Time books.😂
May 20, 2020
Ms. L’Engle opens with a warm and loving description of an all-American, upper-middle class, mid-century family. Dinner is cooking in the oven, the older children are doing homework or working on school projects, and the younger ones are playing, while the mother is orchestrating the whole proceeding. They are all in expectation of the evening’s climax — for Daddy to come home from work. The phone rings and the two younger children rush to be the first one “there” to answer it.
This is the kind of family in which I grew up — my dad was a butcher rather than a doctor and we didn’t listen to Brahms’ Second Piano Concerto with our homework, but the atmosphere is familiar and comforting. The dash to answer the telephone made me giggle; an action that was common to a hundred years’ worth of kids has now become obsolete in this 21st century.
It is the phone call that shatters the boisterous but tranquil Austin home. A family friend, whom the kids call Uncle Hal, has been killed; he was a pilot flying an experimental plane. Like the Time series, MtA is firmly anchored in the Space Age of the 1960s.
Vicky, the 12-year old daughter (Ms. L’Engle had a decided preference for writing prepubescent female narrators), is sad and confused and frightened. She is a wonderful narrator — believable and honest.
. . .
The story about the ice storm brought back memories, not of my childhood, but of my children’s childhood. On Christmas Day 2000, we had a horrendous ice storm. In the afternoon, the power flickered several times and then finally died for good. While our furnace runs on natural gas, the fan is, of course, electric. The kitchen range is also gas powered with electric pilots, so while the oven wouldn’t work, I could light the burners with a match. We had some portable propane heaters that at least kept the temperature above freezing and prevented the water lines from freezing.
I laughed when Mrs. Austin flushed the toilet with a bucket of water. After a few days with no power, the local water treatment plant went down, so the water was turned off. The boys and I gathered icicles from the roof and let it melt in the bathtubs so we could flush the toilets.
And like the Austins, we went to bed early because there was nothing else to do — no TV or movies to watch, no computer or video games to play. The four of us all slept in the same room where there was a heater — Jon, the baby, slept with my husband and me, while we moved a recliner into our room in which Stephen slept. After we were all in bed, I read aloud by kerosene lamp until my throat was tired or until we all went to sleep. Among other things, I read The Magician’s Nephew and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Eventually downed power poles were replaced and broken power lines were repaired and the Austins (and our) electricity came back on and life went back to normal. My kids are grown now, but they remember the ice storm fondly, rather like a special vacation.
. . .
And speaking of vacation, I loved going on vacation with the Austins to visit their grandfather, who lives in a converted stable on an island off the Atlantic coast. I adored the descriptions of his home and especially his library and the poems he has painted on the walls.
Many families, my own included, can never feel complete without our furry friends, and the Austins are no exception. Mr. Rochester, the Great Dane, Colette, a small dog - (I think she was a poodle, but I might be wrong) and various cats round out the family group.
This is such a lovely, old-fashioned children’s book. Though an adult, I was never bored. As I’ve already mentioned, although I grew up a decade later than the Austin children, our family life was very similar. And yet, just 20-something years later, my own children grew up in a completely different world, the Computer Age.
Ms. L’Engle doesn’t shy away from difficult moments in MtA. As mentioned before, the children encounter grief following the death of a beloved friend. The parents of John’s friend, Dave, have recently gone through a divorce. There is an ongoing discussion about the morality of eating meat from animals after the younger daughter reads Charlotte’s Web. Finally, there are plenty of lessons about disobedience, lying, stealing and other childhood sins. The children are certainly disciplined — yes, they are sometimes spanked, which is certainly out of fashion these days, — but that discipline is always tempered with love. And it is love that makes all the difference.
This is the kind of family in which I grew up — my dad was a butcher rather than a doctor and we didn’t listen to Brahms’ Second Piano Concerto with our homework, but the atmosphere is familiar and comforting. The dash to answer the telephone made me giggle; an action that was common to a hundred years’ worth of kids has now become obsolete in this 21st century.
It is the phone call that shatters the boisterous but tranquil Austin home. A family friend, whom the kids call Uncle Hal, has been killed; he was a pilot flying an experimental plane. Like the Time series, MtA is firmly anchored in the Space Age of the 1960s.
Vicky, the 12-year old daughter (Ms. L’Engle had a decided preference for writing prepubescent female narrators), is sad and confused and frightened. She is a wonderful narrator — believable and honest.
Aunt Elena doesn’t look like a mother at all — and, of course, she isn’t. . . I thought of Uncle Hal and remembered that I would never see him again, and I looked at Aunt Elena, and it was as though it were terribly cold and my sorrow was freezing inside me so that I couldn’t speak.
. . .
‘Uncle Douglas,’ I said, ‘why is it that John can show Aunt Elena he’s sorry about Uncle Hal and I can’t, and I’m so terribly, terribly sorry?’
. . .
The story about the ice storm brought back memories, not of my childhood, but of my children’s childhood. On Christmas Day 2000, we had a horrendous ice storm. In the afternoon, the power flickered several times and then finally died for good. While our furnace runs on natural gas, the fan is, of course, electric. The kitchen range is also gas powered with electric pilots, so while the oven wouldn’t work, I could light the burners with a match. We had some portable propane heaters that at least kept the temperature above freezing and prevented the water lines from freezing.
I laughed when Mrs. Austin flushed the toilet with a bucket of water. After a few days with no power, the local water treatment plant went down, so the water was turned off. The boys and I gathered icicles from the roof and let it melt in the bathtubs so we could flush the toilets.
And like the Austins, we went to bed early because there was nothing else to do — no TV or movies to watch, no computer or video games to play. The four of us all slept in the same room where there was a heater — Jon, the baby, slept with my husband and me, while we moved a recliner into our room in which Stephen slept. After we were all in bed, I read aloud by kerosene lamp until my throat was tired or until we all went to sleep. Among other things, I read The Magician’s Nephew and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Eventually downed power poles were replaced and broken power lines were repaired and the Austins (and our) electricity came back on and life went back to normal. My kids are grown now, but they remember the ice storm fondly, rather like a special vacation.
. . .
And speaking of vacation, I loved going on vacation with the Austins to visit their grandfather, who lives in a converted stable on an island off the Atlantic coast. I adored the descriptions of his home and especially his library and the poems he has painted on the walls.
Many families, my own included, can never feel complete without our furry friends, and the Austins are no exception. Mr. Rochester, the Great Dane, Colette, a small dog - (I think she was a poodle, but I might be wrong) and various cats round out the family group.
This is such a lovely, old-fashioned children’s book. Though an adult, I was never bored. As I’ve already mentioned, although I grew up a decade later than the Austin children, our family life was very similar. And yet, just 20-something years later, my own children grew up in a completely different world, the Computer Age.
Ms. L’Engle doesn’t shy away from difficult moments in MtA. As mentioned before, the children encounter grief following the death of a beloved friend. The parents of John’s friend, Dave, have recently gone through a divorce. There is an ongoing discussion about the morality of eating meat from animals after the younger daughter reads Charlotte’s Web. Finally, there are plenty of lessons about disobedience, lying, stealing and other childhood sins. The children are certainly disciplined — yes, they are sometimes spanked, which is certainly out of fashion these days, — but that discipline is always tempered with love. And it is love that makes all the difference.
January 3, 2021
So charming and heart warming!! Gives me Little House on the Prairie vibes, but set in the 50’s.
December 31, 2016
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
I have read several Madeleine L’Engle novels as an adult, but I’ve never made my way through the entirety of any of her series. I’ve decided that the best way to remedy this situation is to read the interconnected Murray-O’Keefe and Austin novels in the order in which they were published. This means, when I do finally finish this task, I will have read Meet the Austins, A Wrinkle In Time, The Moon By Night, The Arm of the Starfish, The Young Unicorns, A Wind in the Door, Dragons in the Waters, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, A Ring of Endless Light, A House Like a Lotus, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time, and Troubling a Star. After reading Meet the Austins, I’m really looking forward to the rest.
While I associate L’Engle with science fiction, this first novel about the Austins is completely realistic. The lives of the four Austin kids - John, Vicky, Suzy, and Rob - are upset when their uncle and his co-pilot are killed in a crash, and the co-pilot’s daughter, Maggy, comes to live with the Austins. Maggy is a brat when she arrives, and it takes the family a while to warm up to her. It is only when they must face the possibility that Maggy might return to her surviving blood relatives that they realize how much a member of the family she really has become.
The chapters in this book are definitely interrelated, but each one represents one particular episode out of the Austins’ lives. Each episode highlights the strength of the sibling relationships, the devotion of the Austin parents, but also the family’s idiosyncrasies and flaws that keep them from becoming saccharine portraits of perfection. One of my favorite episodes in the entire book is when all the Austins dress up as a well-to-do family in order to scare off their uncle’s unsuitable girlfriend. Even Mr. and Mrs. Austin are in on the joke, which really makes them seem real and alive to the reader. I also think Vicky’s relationship to Rob, and the entire family’s reaction when Rob goes briefly missing, are very touching elements to the story, and very well-described.
Above all, though, the chapter which gives the most insight into the Austin family’s role in the world is one that was left out of the first published edition of the book. It’s called The Anti-Muffins, and it tells of the Austins’ club, which is based entirely on the idea that it’s undesirable to be conformist. Muffins come out of the pan all the same, but the Austins strive against that, hoping for a world where it’s okay to be a little bit strange. Also in the club is a Hispanic boy named Pablo whose family is poor. His presence is said to be the reason the chapter was originally cut from the book. But thank goodness it was put back in. I skipped it on my first read-through to see what the story was like without it. It was still very good - the vocabulary is very rich, the style very enjoyable, etc. - but something about that Anti-Muffins chapter makes the book feel whole to me. I truly wish I had read this book as a child just for that chapter.
This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and it has me completely hooked on the Austin characters. I can tell already I’m going to enjoy this little reading exercise, and especially enjoy seeing where L’Engle takes these characters in the books I've yet to read.
I have read several Madeleine L’Engle novels as an adult, but I’ve never made my way through the entirety of any of her series. I’ve decided that the best way to remedy this situation is to read the interconnected Murray-O’Keefe and Austin novels in the order in which they were published. This means, when I do finally finish this task, I will have read Meet the Austins, A Wrinkle In Time, The Moon By Night, The Arm of the Starfish, The Young Unicorns, A Wind in the Door, Dragons in the Waters, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, A Ring of Endless Light, A House Like a Lotus, Many Waters, An Acceptable Time, and Troubling a Star. After reading Meet the Austins, I’m really looking forward to the rest.
While I associate L’Engle with science fiction, this first novel about the Austins is completely realistic. The lives of the four Austin kids - John, Vicky, Suzy, and Rob - are upset when their uncle and his co-pilot are killed in a crash, and the co-pilot’s daughter, Maggy, comes to live with the Austins. Maggy is a brat when she arrives, and it takes the family a while to warm up to her. It is only when they must face the possibility that Maggy might return to her surviving blood relatives that they realize how much a member of the family she really has become.
The chapters in this book are definitely interrelated, but each one represents one particular episode out of the Austins’ lives. Each episode highlights the strength of the sibling relationships, the devotion of the Austin parents, but also the family’s idiosyncrasies and flaws that keep them from becoming saccharine portraits of perfection. One of my favorite episodes in the entire book is when all the Austins dress up as a well-to-do family in order to scare off their uncle’s unsuitable girlfriend. Even Mr. and Mrs. Austin are in on the joke, which really makes them seem real and alive to the reader. I also think Vicky’s relationship to Rob, and the entire family’s reaction when Rob goes briefly missing, are very touching elements to the story, and very well-described.
Above all, though, the chapter which gives the most insight into the Austin family’s role in the world is one that was left out of the first published edition of the book. It’s called The Anti-Muffins, and it tells of the Austins’ club, which is based entirely on the idea that it’s undesirable to be conformist. Muffins come out of the pan all the same, but the Austins strive against that, hoping for a world where it’s okay to be a little bit strange. Also in the club is a Hispanic boy named Pablo whose family is poor. His presence is said to be the reason the chapter was originally cut from the book. But thank goodness it was put back in. I skipped it on my first read-through to see what the story was like without it. It was still very good - the vocabulary is very rich, the style very enjoyable, etc. - but something about that Anti-Muffins chapter makes the book feel whole to me. I truly wish I had read this book as a child just for that chapter.
This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and it has me completely hooked on the Austin characters. I can tell already I’m going to enjoy this little reading exercise, and especially enjoy seeing where L’Engle takes these characters in the books I've yet to read.
September 23, 2016
This was quite the cozy book with adorably sweet family relationships. I very much enjoyed the way the eccentricities of family life were brought out, and it reminded me of my own awesome family. There were quite a few hilarious moments, but a lot of sweet ones too. (John was such a great older brother to Vicky!) I especially loved Rob, and I think I want the Grandfather's house. ;) Just a note that there were some odd philosophical ideas put forth (mostly from children's wonderings) and a noncommital view of creation vs. evolution.
Best quote: "Grandfather has what Mother says is his only great vice: He cannot pass a bookstore. She says it's like someone who can't pass a bar without going in for a drink. Grandfather cannot pass a bookstore without going in and buying a book. He's not a bibliophile, he's a bibliomaniac."
Altogether I found this to be a great cozy book perfect for lovers of close-knit families. ;)
Best quote: "Grandfather has what Mother says is his only great vice: He cannot pass a bookstore. She says it's like someone who can't pass a bar without going in for a drink. Grandfather cannot pass a bookstore without going in and buying a book. He's not a bibliophile, he's a bibliomaniac."
Altogether I found this to be a great cozy book perfect for lovers of close-knit families. ;)
September 10, 2016
Oh dear. My friends adore this. I don't. Even in 1960 one didn't have to believe in spanking, God, and big families. I may have accepted those if I'd read this as a child but I don't think I would have loved the book.
I may have liked it more then, though, what with the Grandfather's library, and the dog, and the adventures. Reading it now, as a parent looking forward to an empty nest, I'm just overwhelmed by the challenges these children inflict upon their parents. And the way Vicky's voice sometimes makes her seem much younger than her years, and sometimes much older, is disconcerting to me.
Oh, and the plot moved too fast - I guess I do need to find an edition with the missing bit, "The Anti-Muffins."
I still appreciate Wrinkle in Time, but I believe that I'm about done trying to read others by the author.
I may have liked it more then, though, what with the Grandfather's library, and the dog, and the adventures. Reading it now, as a parent looking forward to an empty nest, I'm just overwhelmed by the challenges these children inflict upon their parents. And the way Vicky's voice sometimes makes her seem much younger than her years, and sometimes much older, is disconcerting to me.
Oh, and the plot moved too fast - I guess I do need to find an edition with the missing bit, "The Anti-Muffins."
I still appreciate Wrinkle in Time, but I believe that I'm about done trying to read others by the author.
July 13, 2015
This was an off-the-cuff re-read. I was in the Children's area of the library with my kids, who had become absorbed in their own books, and I suddenly had an itch for Madeleine L'Engle. So I grabbed this one off the shelf. I didn't recall reading it when I was young, but I must have, because as soon as I got into it, I realized passages of it had stayed in my subconscious. I also realized how Vicky Austin, like Anne Shirley and Emily Starr, had influenced my view of both myself and the world around me as I moved from childhood into adolescence. I think I may finish the series--and I'll definitely recommend this one to my kids when they are a little older.
February 23, 2023
I knew the 1960 edition first. I like the extra chapter in this one that the author was forced to leave out when the book was originally published. I think it fits and it rectifies the too large gap of time during the year. I do own both editions and treasure them. Both editions survived my recent huge book cull.
August 18, 2020
I have a love/hate relationship with the late Madeleine L’Engle. I loved A Wrinkle in Time, but I hated the sequel, A Wind in the Door. I enjoyed The Arm of the Starfish, but I couldn’t bring myself to finish the sequel, Dragons in the Waters. But on the recommendation of a Goodreads friend, I checked out Meet the Austins, the first in yet another of L’Engle’s series.
Unlike the two previous series, Meet the Austin contains no paranormal or sci-fi touches. Twelve-year-old Vicky Austin and her sister and two brothers prove a real handful. They’re probably a bit better natured than real-life children, but they’re so creative and fun that I ended up not caring. When 10-year-old orphan Maggy Hamilton comes to stay with the Austins temporarily, she throws the already boisterous household into a dither. Summarized this way, I’ve made the plot seem predictable and thin, but L’Engle weaves a charming tale that I loved.
Thank you, Manybooks. Without you, I would never have read Meet the Austins. I’ve gotten the sequel, The Moon by Night, on your recommendation — with hope triumphing over experience.
Unlike the two previous series, Meet the Austin contains no paranormal or sci-fi touches. Twelve-year-old Vicky Austin and her sister and two brothers prove a real handful. They’re probably a bit better natured than real-life children, but they’re so creative and fun that I ended up not caring. When 10-year-old orphan Maggy Hamilton comes to stay with the Austins temporarily, she throws the already boisterous household into a dither. Summarized this way, I’ve made the plot seem predictable and thin, but L’Engle weaves a charming tale that I loved.
Thank you, Manybooks. Without you, I would never have read Meet the Austins. I’ve gotten the sequel, The Moon by Night, on your recommendation — with hope triumphing over experience.
January 5, 2014
L'Engle's novels, especially her Austin cannon, make it very difficult on the reader to leave behind the world in which strong connections and indelible memories have been made. Usually, when I've finished a book, I'll just sit there and let myself feel warm and full and contented, and maybe just a little sad it's over. That was true as well for this time.
When I was little, I used to watch The Cosby Show every day. And if any of the Cosby's had ever appeared on my doorstep offering to take me home with them, I would have promptly packed a suitcase and kissed each of my parents good-bye - promising to send some puddin' along shortly. I don't think a cooler family ever existed. Except for, perhaps, the Austins. Even now, 31 years old, I would gladly be adopted into Wallace and Victoria's brood, if they'd have me. I think they would . . .
For those contemplating whether or not they'll enjoy this book, let me share a few thoughts. There is nothing at stake; not really. You could read a 100 pages, go away for a week or two, then come back and it would just fine. The Austins will still be, sitting there as you left them. If there's an intensity, it lies in the gravity of transparent prose, in the integrity with which each character has been sowed. Colorfully, independently, coherently. There is nothing dangerous or mysterious or provocative about L'Engle's characters. They are good and naughty and generous and moody and insightful and flawed. They are living their lives and have invited us in to observe what a family committed to one another looks like. I'm fairly certain at one point I reached out and touched Vicky's hand. She is poetic and quirky, and with her I share a passion for words and books.
This book is about family and love and choosing to be liberated from self in order to serve others. I'm so glad they exist.
My favorite passages/quotes:
"It's a funny thing about problems and being sick and everything," John said. "When you're in the middle of it it seems so enormous; it seems the only thing in the world. But when you think of the relativity of size it doesn't seem to matter, after all."
Prunewhip, the splotchy colored cat, came packed pat-patting upstairs and jumped on the bed, too, and sat on my chest and began purring loudly and then kneading her front claws into my neck. I kept shoving her paws away, or trying to push her claws back into their soft sheets, but she was determined to enjoy herself in her own way, so I had to pull the blanket up over my neck and leave her to it.
But Grandfather said things can't stay wonderful forever because they would succumb to repetition and cease being wonderful.
When I was little, I used to watch The Cosby Show every day. And if any of the Cosby's had ever appeared on my doorstep offering to take me home with them, I would have promptly packed a suitcase and kissed each of my parents good-bye - promising to send some puddin' along shortly. I don't think a cooler family ever existed. Except for, perhaps, the Austins. Even now, 31 years old, I would gladly be adopted into Wallace and Victoria's brood, if they'd have me. I think they would . . .
For those contemplating whether or not they'll enjoy this book, let me share a few thoughts. There is nothing at stake; not really. You could read a 100 pages, go away for a week or two, then come back and it would just fine. The Austins will still be, sitting there as you left them. If there's an intensity, it lies in the gravity of transparent prose, in the integrity with which each character has been sowed. Colorfully, independently, coherently. There is nothing dangerous or mysterious or provocative about L'Engle's characters. They are good and naughty and generous and moody and insightful and flawed. They are living their lives and have invited us in to observe what a family committed to one another looks like. I'm fairly certain at one point I reached out and touched Vicky's hand. She is poetic and quirky, and with her I share a passion for words and books.
This book is about family and love and choosing to be liberated from self in order to serve others. I'm so glad they exist.
My favorite passages/quotes:
"It's a funny thing about problems and being sick and everything," John said. "When you're in the middle of it it seems so enormous; it seems the only thing in the world. But when you think of the relativity of size it doesn't seem to matter, after all."
Prunewhip, the splotchy colored cat, came packed pat-patting upstairs and jumped on the bed, too, and sat on my chest and began purring loudly and then kneading her front claws into my neck. I kept shoving her paws away, or trying to push her claws back into their soft sheets, but she was determined to enjoy herself in her own way, so I had to pull the blanket up over my neck and leave her to it.
But Grandfather said things can't stay wonderful forever because they would succumb to repetition and cease being wonderful.
June 22, 2015
In my upper years of grade school, I discovered Madeleine L'Engle's Time Trilogy (at the time it was a trilogy) and my literary world changed. The sense of wonder those books awakened served as my gateway to the realms of science fiction and fantasy. At least, that's how I remember it. In any case, she was a "favorite author" and A Wrinkle in Time was the best book ever. And yet, for some reason I did not explore much of her work beyond these books. It was probably because, despite some of the titles, they didn't seem like fantasy at all. They were realistic, and I was reading to get away from all that. (And some of them looked like -- ugh -- romances!)
In recent years I've been looking back on that era. I've re-read some favorites, and tried to "catch up" on others that I remember but didn't read at the time. So, here I am.
The Austins are a family of six (four children) plus two dogs and an indeterminate number of cats. Father is a doctor, mother used to be a singer but gave it up to raise a family. They are loving but stern in that 1950s way. At the beginning of the novel, they receive a call about a friend of a relative who has tragically died, leaving behind a daughter. The girl, Maggy Hamilton, is to come live with the Austins.
Unfortunately, Maggy is a spoiled brat, rude, disruptive, and a bad influence on Suzy, the youngest Austin girl. But the family does their best to cope with her and everyone eventually learns to love and respect one another.
There's no high adventure here; the situations are pretty mundane and the most dramatic thing that happens is a small boy gets lost on the beach. But the writing has intelligence and charm and that kept me reading.
And then there's the religion. I expected it, but I had hoped it would be worked into the story in a more natural fashion. At first it's not too bad, but eventually it starts get shoehorned in more and more awkwardly, as if the author realized she had gone 30 pages without mentioning God and needed to get to it. It's worst towards the end, when they visit their reverend grandfather. She even tries to argue that Einstein was religious, a tired old myth that people still use to defend the coexistence of science and religion.
Still, I did enjoy the story, which was otherwise charming and nostalgic and not without humor. I shall continue on with L'Engle Quest.
In recent years I've been looking back on that era. I've re-read some favorites, and tried to "catch up" on others that I remember but didn't read at the time. So, here I am.
The Austins are a family of six (four children) plus two dogs and an indeterminate number of cats. Father is a doctor, mother used to be a singer but gave it up to raise a family. They are loving but stern in that 1950s way. At the beginning of the novel, they receive a call about a friend of a relative who has tragically died, leaving behind a daughter. The girl, Maggy Hamilton, is to come live with the Austins.
Unfortunately, Maggy is a spoiled brat, rude, disruptive, and a bad influence on Suzy, the youngest Austin girl. But the family does their best to cope with her and everyone eventually learns to love and respect one another.
There's no high adventure here; the situations are pretty mundane and the most dramatic thing that happens is a small boy gets lost on the beach. But the writing has intelligence and charm and that kept me reading.
And then there's the religion. I expected it, but I had hoped it would be worked into the story in a more natural fashion. At first it's not too bad, but eventually it starts get shoehorned in more and more awkwardly, as if the author realized she had gone 30 pages without mentioning God and needed to get to it. It's worst towards the end, when they visit their reverend grandfather. She even tries to argue that Einstein was religious, a tired old myth that people still use to defend the coexistence of science and religion.
Still, I did enjoy the story, which was otherwise charming and nostalgic and not without humor. I shall continue on with L'Engle Quest.
August 20, 2014
Meet the Austins by Madeleine L'Engle is an episodic type book about events in the lives of the Austin family. The book starts off with them being informed of the death of a close family friend and then shortly afterward they take in a little girl who was orphaned due to the same accident that killed their friend. The child turns out to be a difficult spoiled brat and it takes the family a long time to adjust to her living with them. Each chapter tells of different random events in the lives of this family until the future of the orphan can be decided. For the most part I found this book to be rather dull and I was glad that it was a fairly short read so it didn't take me too long to get through it. I probably would have rated this book as two stars, but there were some parts of the book that were really quite funny and made me laugh, so I gave it an extra star for that. I doubt I'll be reading it again though. I still plan to read the other books in this series because there are some character's that overlap with the author's Time Quintet series which I love, and I recall reading other books in this series as a child and enjoying them much more than I did this book. I probably wouldn't recommend this book unless you are a big fan of the author or a completionist as far as series go.
I also have some additional thoughts on this book. I found a lot of similarities between the family in this book and the family in the author's other book, A Wrinkle in Time. Both families have four children and multiple pets and they both live in similar types of houses. They both live in small towns and both live in the same part of the country. The main character in both books is the eldest daughter and both of them are rather plain looking and insecure about their appearance. I also noticed at least three character names that were used in both books, though there were some variations in two of the names. I'm not saying that all of this is a bad thing necessarily, but it did give me the impression that the author had some creative difficulties. I can overlook most of the similarities, but I found the name thing a bit annoying and feel it shouldn't have been too difficult for the author to come up with more original character names.
I also have some additional thoughts on this book. I found a lot of similarities between the family in this book and the family in the author's other book, A Wrinkle in Time. Both families have four children and multiple pets and they both live in similar types of houses. They both live in small towns and both live in the same part of the country. The main character in both books is the eldest daughter and both of them are rather plain looking and insecure about their appearance. I also noticed at least three character names that were used in both books, though there were some variations in two of the names. I'm not saying that all of this is a bad thing necessarily, but it did give me the impression that the author had some creative difficulties. I can overlook most of the similarities, but I found the name thing a bit annoying and feel it shouldn't have been too difficult for the author to come up with more original character names.
July 5, 2013
You know, I remembered absolutely nothing about this book. It's been a while since I've read it, but still. It was a bit ridiculous. I actually remembered nothing, to the extent that it was almost like reading it again.
This one has never been one of my favourites though. I may have only ever read it once before now. Maybe twice. I don't dislike it, but it's never really stuck out for me. I think part of it is that I've never been a huge fan of the Maggy plotline, I guess. I do love John and Vicky's relationship in this book though. Favourite part.
Also, in an interview in the back of this edition of this book, Madeleine L'Engle says she's always loved L.M. Montgomery and Emily of New Moon, which makes perfect sense, now that I think about it. At one point they even point out Vega of the Lyre. Which makes me want to learn where it is in the night sky now.
Basically, very much enjoy this, as I enjoy all of the Austin books, and the Austin family, but not a standout for me.
This one has never been one of my favourites though. I may have only ever read it once before now. Maybe twice. I don't dislike it, but it's never really stuck out for me. I think part of it is that I've never been a huge fan of the Maggy plotline, I guess. I do love John and Vicky's relationship in this book though. Favourite part.
Also, in an interview in the back of this edition of this book, Madeleine L'Engle says she's always loved L.M. Montgomery and Emily of New Moon, which makes perfect sense, now that I think about it. At one point they even point out Vega of the Lyre. Which makes me want to learn where it is in the night sky now.
Basically, very much enjoy this, as I enjoy all of the Austin books, and the Austin family, but not a standout for me.
February 3, 2012
The Austins manage in this, the first book featuring them, to be real, idealistic, and lovable all at once. None of them are perfect, but overall they represents exactly what I long for most - a family of loving, thinking, laughing individuals. I can never read a dinnertime scene without fiercely wishing for that in my own house.
If you are looking for an exciting story, this isn't it. If you are looking for a story that seems simple on the surface, yet simmers with quiet joy underneath, that stays with you for a long time after reading, look no further. Meet the Austins is the book for you.
If you are looking for an exciting story, this isn't it. If you are looking for a story that seems simple on the surface, yet simmers with quiet joy underneath, that stays with you for a long time after reading, look no further. Meet the Austins is the book for you.
December 28, 2017
Treating myself to a year of rereading Madeline L'Engle. Bought the rest of the Austin books with some of the amazon gift card that I got from my friends at the Union Library when I retired and am going to read through the five of them first. Rounding out my collection as I go. Probably alternating fiction and non fiction, juvenile and adult books.
I love her style and the reality of living with a family that you sometimes love until it hurts and sometimes can't stand to be around. Filled with music, art and books and love nature.
I love her style and the reality of living with a family that you sometimes love until it hurts and sometimes can't stand to be around. Filled with music, art and books and love nature.
April 16, 2020
This is a favorite from my youth, and I had the pleasure of reading it with my 15-year-old daughter for Homeschool. It’s such a delightful book about normal family life, yet Madeleine L’Engle makes “normal” so beautiful.
March 10, 2024
Rereading this series, one of my very favorite as a child. So many memories for me, and I love seeing my Claire enjoy them as well.
March 14, 2019
It's hard to believe, but I never heard of Madeleine L’Engle and her books until I was an adult. The only one of her books I had read prior to Meet the Austins was A Wrinkle in Time and that was several years ago.
I feel an author obsession starting to grow – and I am thrilled that she wrote over 60 books so I have a lot to obsess over. I’m planning to read the remaining 4 novels in the Austin family series. Jeanne Birdsall of the Penderwick family books (another children’s series I love) must have been influenced by this series. The similarities between the 2 series are striking. (Both families live in suburbs of Boston, there are themes of music, pets and strong family values).
Meet the Austins is like a trip back in time - back to Mayberry or the Cleaver household. Children get spanked, a broken arm will result in a hospital stay of several days, there are nightly prayers and family dinners. There’s a lot of family drama with an orphan girl that comes to live with the family, death of a family friend, a shoplifting incident, bullying, and a lost child. I am eager to move on to the second Austin family book, The Moon by Night and see what else happens.
I feel an author obsession starting to grow – and I am thrilled that she wrote over 60 books so I have a lot to obsess over. I’m planning to read the remaining 4 novels in the Austin family series. Jeanne Birdsall of the Penderwick family books (another children’s series I love) must have been influenced by this series. The similarities between the 2 series are striking. (Both families live in suburbs of Boston, there are themes of music, pets and strong family values).
Meet the Austins is like a trip back in time - back to Mayberry or the Cleaver household. Children get spanked, a broken arm will result in a hospital stay of several days, there are nightly prayers and family dinners. There’s a lot of family drama with an orphan girl that comes to live with the family, death of a family friend, a shoplifting incident, bullying, and a lost child. I am eager to move on to the second Austin family book, The Moon by Night and see what else happens.
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