Apron-Strings

"Apron-Strings" by Eleanor Gates is a story from the early 1900s that looks at the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters, highlighting different kinds of mothers. The story revolves around Mrs. Milo and her daughter, Susan, as well as other characters such as Hattie, who is about to get married, and Mr. Farvel, the new church leader, combining the ideas of family affection and what society expects. The book begins at a church where everyone is getting ready for Hattie's wedding. Through their conversations, we learn about the characters, especially Mrs. Milo, who likes to be in charge and is judgmental, which differs from Susan, who is kind and caring. As Susan spends time with orphaned boys, the problems between her and her mother become clearer, hinting at deeper issues of what mothers expect and taking care of others. The conversations are funny and happy but also have sad parts, which prepares the reader for the emotional changes to come.