The following photographs are from my Pinterest boards. I started to collect images of the 1940s when I began writing the Christmastime series — stories that take place on the home front during World War II.
I wanted to get a sense of the times in order to better portray Lillian and her friend Izzy, and all the women in the series — women who live and work in New York City,
as well as those who run an orchard and live on a farm.
There are young mothers and career women, volunteers and performers, of all ages. And of course, there are a few images on the boards of men, to help portray the relationships in the books.
Some of the photographs on the Pinterest boards are of famous women,
others depict the not-so-average women of the day,
whose lives were turned upside down by the war. They rose to the challenge — going without, making do, and stepping into roles they never imagined for themselves.
These images helped me to tap into the spirit of the times and funnel some of the charm and energy into the characters of the Christmastime series.
I hope you enjoy them!
Linda Mahkovec - Author 
I loved these pictures! My mother, born in 1927, was the youngest of seven daughters. I have a picture of all of them lined up in a row wearing their 40’s era swimsuits. All born and raised in Peoria. Many, many war photos. Thank you for your books!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi Linda – thank you for your comment. My mother was born in 1925 in Jacksonville, Illinois – not far from Peoria. I have some wonderful photographs of her from the 1940s – real treasures.
So glad you enjoyed the books!
LikeLiked by 1 person
These pictures looked like very happy times.
Loved the Christmas series!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!
LikeLike
Love these!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Esther!
LikeLike
Linda, my mom also was born in 1928 in Chicago. Looking through her photos from back then always made a impression on me of those times….even more when last year I had to gather some for her memorial & wished I could remember all the stories behind them she told me. They are some of my most cherished things…Truly enjoy your books because they bring mom’s life closer to me during that time. Thank you.
LikeLike
I can so relate to your comment. I grew up with stories from that time from my parents – my father fought in WWII. Though I did extensive research, I had so many questions I wanted to ask him. I was lucky enough to be able to ask my mom questions while I was writing the books. Thank you for your response — I’m so happy to know that my books have that extra level of personal connection for you.
LikeLike
Thank you, Esther!
LikeLiked by 1 person
These photos remind me of my parents and the photos of them when they were young. My dad served in the Navy during WWII and my mom worked as a civilian for the Navy. I do think that they were the greatest generation! Both mom and dad lived to be 96 and had many stories to tell. Thanks much for sharing these photos.
LikeLike
Hi Barbara – It sounds like you must have enjoyed many stories from that time. So glad you enjoyed the photographs,
Thank you.
LikeLike