Beatrice, er Booky Thomas, (Rachel Marcus) lives in Toronto, Canada during the Great Depression. Her mother (Megan Follows) resorts to cleverness, like trying out a new sewing machine from the local department store, Eatons, for a month. She gets all of her clothes making done, then returns the apparatus, telling the store she didn't like it. It's the time for such strategies, particularly in a large family like the Thomas'. Mr. Thomas actually works for Eatons, as a harness maker for the delivery horses. But, alas, automobiles and trucks are becoming the vogue. Soon enough, he loses his job. Now the family is in meager circumstances, although Dad picks up jobs here and there. It looks like the approaching Christmas will not be very merry, especially for the kids. Booky herself is hired by an aunt to hand out sample roasted nuts at a store. It is there that she meets Mr. Eaton himself and develops a friendship with the older gentleman. Its a good thing, for Booky's friendship with her richer pal Laura is put to the test when Laura's mother doesn't want her child associating with poor folks like Beatrice. Yet, Booky does Laura's mother a great kindness and the little girl courts another job for her father, too. What an example Booky sets for us all! There are many film fans, myself as well, who loves stories from the Depression. It seems that, in spite of obvious hardships, folks were kinder, gentler and more resourceful. In short, an inspiration to everyone. Marcus is a natural as Booky and Follows has long been a favorite among family flick fans. The rest of the cast is also wonderful. Then, too, the Toronto setting is lovely and care has been extended, admirably, to make the costumes, homes, and happenstances historically fitting. A fine story and secure direction completes the road to a marvelous holiday movie. So, Looky for Booky, and its no secret, you and your family will be smiling.
