Lily is thrilled when her sister Eubie wins a college scholarship. The only thing is that Eubie will have to pay $3,000 for room and board, so the whole family decides to pitch in. Papa will do some extra work, Mama will sew, brother Jacob has a paper route and is going to check for something more and Eubie can babysit. But what can Lily do? She tries to help out around the house, but that’s not enough. No one stops at her iced-tea stand, and her plan to sell worms as fishing bait goes awry. She tries pet-sitting but gets no offers. Then Mrs. Tolliver comes to pick up the dress Mama has made, and an opportunity arises. Mrs. Tolliver is worried about leaving her mother alone, so Lily offers to help out. Now Lily can relax; she’s going to help her sister’s dreams come true. Finely rendered realistic paintings bring life to Lily and her family in this story about taking responsibility and being there for a family member who needs help. (Picture book. 5-7)
