This unique collection of materials related to the creation of a single picture book provides a rich resource for scholars of children's literature and illustration. The most obvious line of research given these resources, would be to trace both visual and textual changes in the composition of this book over time. In most instances, there are three or more preliminary versions of an illustration, and it is fascinating to identify the changes in background details and in the placement of key figures on the page.

For instance, there are many changes in the illustration in which Rosa awakens in her aunt's home after her trip from the city. One of the most obvious changes from the sketchbook and other drawings, to the published page is the picture over cousin Birgit's bed which changes from St. Francis to a ship at sea. Rosa's size in relation to the crib in which she had been sleeping also changes. Many other details in this picture vary in size, shape or position on the page while still others are added or disappear. The rug changes shape and a flower design is added, a Teddy bear disappears, the window moves from the center to the side of the room, the curtain pattern changes, the folk painting on the headboard of the bed becomes more elaborate, flowers are added to the vase, and items such as shoes and the briefcase are added.

Comparing these different versions of essentially the same illustrations, especially in chronological order, gives researchers some insight into Mathers' creative process and raises a number of questions about how and why certain artistic decisions were made. In some instances, the artist's notes, changes in the text, or letters from the editors provide information or raise additional questions.

Textual changes and marginal notes in the six-plus drafts of the story provide more specific details of changes, but also raise additional questions. Sometimes author notes are very revealing as when Mathers referred to the illustration in which Rosa and her mother are wrapped around each other saying goodbye as "the jacket I wanted. Was told and in time was almost convinced that Rosa with her back to us would turn away potential customers. I've always regretted giving in."