Iron Pants Paperback – January 27, 2022

Orphaned sisters are challenged to overcome obstacles to grow into a rewarding life in a post WWI rural North Carolina environment. The author takes the reader by the hand to introduce four sisters who through "an iron will" are able to remain together while benefitting from loving adults and the organizations they represent. Rural NC is described in wonderful detail as are the efforts of wonderful role models who band together to see the sisters reach their potential. They ultimately not only manage the iron in their veins which is their birthright, but manifest the love that they so abundantly received. Recommended reading.

Ten-year-old, Josephine, shows how challenges can be turned into opportunities – and that each opportunity gives us a chance to put on our creative thinking hat and be helpful to others. Meyers tells the story of Josephine (“Iron Pants”) orphaned as a child in rural North Carolina in the early 20th century who learns to express humor, use common sense, and to persevere in the face of sadness and uncertainty. Josephine (based on Meyers’ inspirational mother) discovers how to keep her sisters together after the death of their parents and strive to enjoy life. Heartwarming, funny, and thoughtful, this is a great read for children and adults about love, courage, and resilience.

Elaine Meyers' mother, Josephine Duke, did not talk much about growing up an orphan, and it was a story Elaine very much wanted to know. So, with few clues, much love, vigorous research, and her vibrant imagination and writing skill, Elaine puts the tale together. Getting to know the determined young Josephine, who calls herself "Iron Pants," was a treat. It also made me wonder what I may have missed exploring in my own family. Parental lives can seem unknowable to their kids. But, as Elaine shows us so beautifully, everybody has a story, and trying to find it, and tell it, can make a terrific book.

Elaine Meyer's "Iron Pants" tells a story about her mother Josephine Duke and Josephine's three sisters who become orphans after the death or their mother. When a wealthy family talks about splitting the sister's up, it is then that Josephine finds her Iron Pants, and would do anything to make sure her sisters stay together.I could not put this book down and ended up reading it all in one sitting! Elaine's ability to intertwine the past and present with incredible details makes it feel like you are there living the story as an extra Duke sister. I highly recommend Iron Pants to everyone!

Although interesting, I kept waiting for something to happen.

Thoroughly enjoyed this narrative. As soon as I read the first chapter,I knew it was written from the heart with love. The weaving together of past and present worked well. Characters were real, I felt like I knew them. Especially enjoyed the little details that often reminded me of my own childhood. Thanks! Great read.

Four sisters growing up in an orphanage could be a sad topic. But Ms. Meyers tells the story with hope, humor, strength, faith, and a light-heart. This work is a beautiful tribute to her deserving mother - a wonderful book.

Captivating narrative. Personal read.