Lily grew up without her mother, but in the end she finds a whole house full of them.  Have you ever had a mother figure in your life who wasn't your true mother?  Have you ever had to leave home to find home?

This was what I loved most about the book--the way in which these women became like mother's to Lily, each in their own way.  Lily was open to, and embraced their "mothering, in most cases and their relationship grew into one of patience and understanding and mutual respect.  I especially loved that August knew more about Lily but let her come to things on her own, when she was ready.  I also loved that Lily's perspective felt very much like that of a 14 year old.