Ann Combs

In 1970, Combs, her husband Joe and their six kids bought a broken down house on Bainbridge Island. Being a native of the island, she wanted to return, but with so many children they needed not only a large house, but one that was within their modest budget. They bought a house that was in such bad condition that, over several years, they basically pulled it apart and put it back together. Combs relates it all with good humor, especially the chapter about their garbage collector, a man who show more hates his job so much that he demands a confrontation each week when he sees the debris from their home projects. Halfway through, I was wondering why they didn't set this wreck on fire and walk away, but this is a memoir of a highly active family, and things are right in the end. show less

How Old is Old, is a great book pre-k and kindergarteners. The book is about a grandson and grandfather who share the same birthday. One day Alistair asked his grandfather the question, "how old is old?" His grandfather then gives Alistair examples of different animals and the age that makes them old. This book can be used as a read aloud lesson.

A little boy asks his grandfather what old means and learns that different creatures have different lengths of life.

Ann Combs is a treasure! She is an absolute treasure!

Update, 10/25/19:
It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Ann Combs. I knew her when we volunteered together at our local history museum. I wasn't a close friend; just an acquaintance who got the biggest kick out of her irreverence and her stories. The last time I worked with her at the museum was September 14. I had her autograph her book for me. One month later, she's no longer with us. We've lost our treasure. It was my show more sincerest privilege to have had the honor to meet and chat with Ann. I will miss her. show less