Ernestine and Amanda, two African-American girls growing up in the 1950s, don't get along but can't quite hate each other either, as they start a new school year filled with sleepover parties, new clubs, and surprising new friends.
In 1948, while spending the summer with her aunt in West Virginia to find her family roots, Tilara begins visiting the "colored" old folks' home called McKendree, makes new friends, and learns to love herself.
When his father first takes him to meet Miss Josie, a young boy is somewhat intimidated by her, but through the coming years he comes to treasure her friendship and support and passes on his love of her to his own son. Based on the life of Josephine Carroll Smith.
Ernestine and Amanda, two African-American twelve-year-olds growing up under segregation in the 1950s, are brought together when the all black dance studio where they take lessons is attacked by vandals.
In the evening the residents of Church Street gather on Miss Ida's porch to share memories and hear stories about events in the past, events significant to them as African-Americans.
