In 1952 Iowa, a terminally-ill mother of ten children (of various ages, and one with epilepsy) must find new homes for the youngsters when it becomes apparent her alcoholic, frequently-unemployed husband will not be able to care for them once she passes on. Based on a true story, and told with tender, loving care, this is an honest tearjerker--and one with an unusual angle. Ann-Margret, making her first foray in the movie-of-the-week genre, not only must explain to her kids that she's dying but also that adoptive parents must be found for each of them, which means separating the siblings. It's a heady task for everyone involved, most especially the resolved, grounded matriarch who only cries in private. The film comes up a bit short in delineating the ne'er-do-well father's responsibilities and emotions--and the kids don't seem to have much of a connection to him--although Frederic Forrest comes across strongly in this role. The period flavor (although a bit hokey in the beginning) is well accomplished, and Ann-Margret's strength and courage as Lucile Fray holds the whole thing together like loving glue.

I originally saw this on its premiere in the UK. I was mesmerised by it, and it had me in tears all throughout its duration. I taped it off the TV for safekeeping, but over the years, it's worn out. And TV never seem to show it. Therefore it was a joy to find out that True Movies own the copyright and were showing it on their channels. This time, I taped it onto a DVD, so I can enjoy it again and again.Lucile Fray (played magnificently by Ann - Margret) discovers she has cancer, and that it is terminal. Her husband has arthritis, and, although he is loving, he is an alcoholic, and would be incapable of taking care of their children after she has gone. Therefore, she has to find new homes for each of her children before she dies.The acting is top notch, the music beautiful, and it has stood the test of time wonderfully (it still makes me cry!) If you ever get the chance, you would be silly to miss this. It is a wonderful film! A must see for everyone!!!

This is not a GREAT movie as tho the cast (especially the kids) admirably help to carry along this very sad yet contrived plot it is filled with cliché upon cliché. Poor family in 50's mid America, dying mother, alcoholic father, 10 children (1 of whom has epilepsy) and an awful decision to be made. Its very easy to watch and some of the kids performances are moving without being sickly or naff. And little Frank and Warrnen steal the show for me with the last scene leaving me bawling no matter how many times I see it. A great rainy afternoon movie i recommend to all. Only those with the hardest of hearts could fail to be moved by it. Not on a par to Sophies Choice but a good TV movie equivalent!!!

I watched this film many years ago on TV and taped it from there I could never really understand why my own mother was upset watching it! It was because I was so young at the time. I have just sat and watched this film again I now have 2 children of my own and I had to try and fight the tears back but that didn't happen I was crying through most of the film It just go's to show how different you feel when you have children of your own! Such an amazing family such a heart wrenching film truly wonderful! Someone has said about 8 still living any more news are you all still in touch I would love to know! Touched by the film all over!