We’ve put together a collection of 75+ books about grandparents — funny, lovely and heartwarming intergenerational stories about grandmothers and grandfathers. We hope you enjoy reading some of these in a cozy spot surrounded by family members of all generations, cups of tea in hand and maybe a slice or two of Marian Burros’ famous plum torte, which I know my grandparents would have wholeheartedly approved of. This list includes some new forthcoming titles to be published later in 2023.
For one young girl, summer is the season of no school, of days spent at the pool, of picking golden limes off the trees. But summer doesn’t start until her lola—her grandmother from the Philippines—comes for her annual visit. Summer is special. For her lola fills the house with the aroma of mango jam, funny stories of baking mishaps, and her quiet sweet singing in Tagalog. And in turn, her granddaughter brings Lola to the beach, to view fireworks at the park, and to catch fish at their lake. When Lola comes, the whole family gathers to cook and eat and share in their happiness of another season spent together. Yet as summer transitions to fall, her lola must return home—but not without a surprise for her granddaughter to preserve their special summer a bit longer.
In an evocative tale brimming with the scents, tastes, and traditions that define summer for one young girl, debut author Michelle Sterling and illustrator Aaron Asis come together to celebrate the gentle bonds of familial love that span oceans and generations. Watch a video book trailer for When Lola Visits.
When Lola Visits was written by Michelle Sterling, illustrated by Aaron Asis and published by Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins. Photo by Michelle Sterling.
A scroll that a grandfather plans to finish painting with his granddaughter shows how love can overcome differences and distances.
Lily lives in Washington, DC. Her grandpa lives in Korea. They've never met but are good pen pals. Just when he is about to visit Lily in the U.S., Grandpa dies. Lily and her mom fly to Korea, where they uncover the rice paper scroll Grandpa had hoped to finish painting with Lily. To honor his wish, Lily writes a poem about her grandfather that sits just below his poem about her, so that in the end, they have finished it together.
Grandpa’s Scroll was written by Ginger Park and Frances Park, illustrated by Kim Dong Hoon and published by Albert Whitman & Company.
When a child’s beloved grandfather comes from Iran for a visit, she can’t wait to show him all her favorite things in this story full of warmth and tender detail.
We speak different languages, Grandpa and I,
but how we laugh and laugh and laugh.
Grandpa is finally here to visit! He’s brought a suitcase smelling of Persian spices, walnuts picked from his trees at home, and sparkly saffron to make yellow rice. And Grandpa and granddaughter have so much they want to see and do together. She shows him all her favorite things: the mountaintops, the tunnel she discovered, and the horse in the field. If only Grandpa could stay longer, then he could see the spring—but when time together is limited, it feels all the sweeter and more special. In a touching follow-up to Mum, Me, and the Mulberry Tree, Tanya Rosie and Chuck Groenink deliver a tenderly told and beautifully illustrated picture book about the magical bonds between families, even those spread out across the world.
Grandpa Is Here! was written by Tanya Rosie, illustrated by Chuck Groenink and published by Candlewick Press.
An intergenerational story of family ties, cultural pride, and spelling bee victory following a young boy who bonds with his beloved abuela over a love of Spanish.
As a boy prepares for his school’s Spanish spelling bee, he asks his grandmother for help with some of the words he doesn’t know how to spell yet. When she studies with him, she tells him how different things were back when she was a girl, when she was only allowed to speak English in school. This only inspires him to study even harder and make his family proud.
Based on stories author Michael Genhart heard from his mother as a child, Spanish is the Language of My Family is about the joy of sharing cultural heritage with our families, inspired by the generations of Latino people were punished for speaking Spanish and the many ways new generations are rejuvenating the language.
Michael Genhart’s text is as touching as it is poignant, and it’s paired with the striking artwork of multiple Pura Belpre Award-Winning Illustrator John Parra. Extensive material at the back of the book includes essays from the author about the history of Spanish suppression in U.S. schools and information about the Spanish alphabet.
Spanish Is the Language of My Family was written by Michael Genhart, illustrated by John Parra and published by Neal Porter Books. Its Spanish edition is El español es la lengua de mi familia.
Betty loves visiting Grandma and playing in her beautiful garden, Acorn Hollows. It is her most favorite place in the whole world! Together they tend to Grandma’s wildflowers and berry bushes, and even make jam to sell at the local farmers market. But when a mysterious creature starts destroying the Hollows, Betty is determined to find a way to stop it. Can she come up with a plan to save their beloved garden?
Debut author Anne Twist creates a truly touching celebration of nature and time spent together, lovingly brought to life by renowned illustrator Emily Sutton’s exuberant, joyful images.
Betty and the Mysterious Visitor was written by Anne Twist, illustrated by Emily Sutton and published by Candlewick Press.
“Sora means ‘seashell’ in Korean,” her mother said. “Halmoni always said finding a perfect shell is like receiving a wonderful gift. That’s why she suggested we name you Sora.”
Every summer, when Sora’s Halmoni, or grandmother, visits from South Korea, the two of them take the bus to the beach to search for seashells. While Sora likes to take all of them back with her, Halmoni always leaves the prettiest shell for someone else to find and treasure. As summer turns to fall, Halmoni returns home and Sora starts kindergarten, where some of the kids tease her about her “weird” name. One day, Sora’s parents receive a sad call about her grandmother, and Sora feels more lost than ever about who she is and how she fits in. But when her parents reveal the origin of her name, Sora channels a newfound pride and, inspired by Halmoni, combats her peers’ hurtful comments by sharing her shells with everyone in her class. This story, told by Helena Ku Rhee and illustrated by Stella Lim, based on art by Ji-Hyuk Kim, speaks to the prevailing power of kindness and will resonate with anyone who’s been made to feel different.
Sora’s Seashells was written by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Stella Lim with Ji-Hyuk Kim and published by Candlewick Press.
Join Tato and her family as they help Bábo (grandmother) on rug-washing day, in this sweet and playful picture book tribute to Armenian cultural traditions.
Little Tato sneaks a few cherry plums before racing off to help Bábo—her grandmother—with a favorite chore. Each year Tato looks forward to washing the family rugs. With bubbles and suds floating like clouds and snowflakes, Tato and her siblings help Bábo scrub the rugs clean.
With lively text and vivid illustrations, Astrid Kamalyan brings her charming childhood memories to life by inviting young readers to spend a day full of fun and love with an Armenian family.
Bábo: A Tale of Armenian Rug-Washing Day was written by Astrid Kamalyan, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan and published by Charlesbridge.
In her grandmother's garden, a young Black girl learns about mindfulness and herbal medicine in this soothing intergenerational story about our connection to nature.
It's Joy's first summer in her grandmother's South Carolina garden—a rite of passage. In the midst of okra, spinach, and strawberries, Grammy teaches Joy that plants are friends with many uses. Herbs, for example, can be turned into medicine.
There in Grammy's abundant backyard, Joy learns to listen for the heartbeat of the earth and connect it to her own as she takes deep breaths and puts her intentions into the soil. By the story's end, she learns to grow seeds in her own garden, honoring all that her grandmother taught her. With sensory-rich illustrations from award-winning illustrator Ashleigh Corrin, Joy Takes Root is a blissful reminder of all that might bloom.
Joy Takes Root was written by Gwendolyn Wallace, illustrated by Ashleigh Corrin and published by Kokila.
In this love letter to the Philippines (and to grandmothers), a young girl comes up with a brilliantly delicious way to attract customers after a heat wave leaves her lola’s store empty.
Nora loves spending summers with Lola at her sari-sari store, a treasure trove filled with everything you could need, from hair accessories to toys, creamy yema to sour tamarind candy. And this year, Nora is big enough to help her grandmother. But when a heat wave strikes and no one comes to the store, Nora worries that she won’t get to spend the rest of the summer with her lola—until she gets a sweet idea. After all, the mangoes on the tree outside are finally ripe, and with a bit of measuring, mixing, and a good deal of tasting, Nora and Lola have a refreshing way to bring people together—and to the sari-sari store. With soft, heartfelt illustrations, Lynnor Bontigao’s endearing picture book—featuring a recipe for making mango ice candy like Nora’s—is an ode to ingenuity and to intergenerational relationships that’s as sweet and gentle as a kiss on the cheek.
Sari-Sari Summers was written and illustrated by Lynnor Bontigao and published by Candlewick Press. Read our review and preview the interiors of Sari-Sari Summers here.
My abuela wears an old yellow handkerchief that her grandmother gave to her.
I don’t like the yellow handkerchief.
When a young girl feels ashamed of her family for being “different” and subconsciously blames her abuela, she gradually grows to not only accept but also love the yellow handkerchief that represents a language and culture that once brought embarrassment.
Inspired by the personal experiences of award-winning author Donna Barba Higuera and expressively illustrated by Cynthia Alonso, The Yellow Handkerchief is a lyrical, honest, and intimate intergenerational story about embracing who we are, where we come from, and the people who shape us.
The Yellow Handkerchief (El pañuelo amarillo) was written by Donna Barba Higuera, illustrated by Cynthia Alonso and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
From the creator of Nickelodeon’s hit series Shimmer and Shine comes a sweet and imaginative picture book about a little girl who spends the day with her grandfather and learns more about who he is.
Every summer, Miriam spends a week at her Babajoon and Mamanjoon’s house. It’s her favorite part of summer because every day with her grandparents is an adventure. But when coins fall out of Babajoon’s pocket as he’s getting ice cream, Miriam finds one coin that doesn’t look like the rest—a gold one unlike Miriam has ever seen before.
Suddenly, she starts to notice certain things about her Babajoon. He can talk to parrots. He speaks with codewords. He trades crystal treasures with his friends. Could her Babajoon be…a pirate?
Babajoon's Treasure was written by Farnaz Esnaashari, illustrated by Nabi H. Ali and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
A story about coping with loss and the magical comfort of friendships, both old and new.
Alejo loved his Abuelo. They did everything together and were the best of friends. They had so much fun that one little neighbor couldn’t help but notice and admire their strong bond. But one day, Abuelo wasn’t there anymore. He got too sick to come home. Nothing makes Alejo feel better; doing all of things he used to do with Abuelo just makes him feel more lonely. But, maybe, just maybe, one special little neighbor can help.
This collaboration from debut author David Corredor Benavides and award-winning picture book writer Nelly Buchet tells a heartwarming story of beautiful friendships, of grieving and coping with the loss of a loved one, and supporting one another through gentle acts of kindness. Alejo’s story was inspired by Corredor Benavides’ unforgettable adventures with his own grandfather, as well as Buchet’s admiration of such a magical relationship.
Abuelito was written by David Corredor Benavides and Nelly Buchet, illustrated by Ana Sanfelippo and published by Kind World Publishing.
The bond between a child and his grandmother grows as they tend her garden together.
A young boy spends his mornings with his beloved Baba, his grandmother. She doesn't speak much English, but they connect through gestures, gardening, eating, and walking to school together. Marked by memories of wartime scarcity, Baba cherishes food, and the boy learns to do the same. Eventually, Baba needs to move in with the boy and his parents, and he has the chance to care for her as she’s always cared for him.
Inspired by memories from poet Jordan Scott’s childhood, with beautiful, dreamlike illustrations by award-winning illustrator Sydney Smith, My Baba’s Garden is a deeply personal story that evokes universal emotions. Like Scott and Smith’s previous collaboration I Talk Like a River, winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, My Baba’s Garden lends wistful appreciation to cherished time with family.
My Baba’s Garden was written by Jordan Scott, illustrated by Sydney Smith and published by Neal Porter Books. Read our review and preview the interior of My Baba’s Garden here.
A young girl spends the summer at her grandmother’s home on the Standing Rock Reservation in this heartwarming family story from acclaimed author-artist S. D. Nelson.
Now that Clara is almost in third grade, she’s finally old enough to spend her first summer away from home visiting her grandma, Unci, and her cousin at their home in Standing Rock Reservation. To welcome her visit, Uncle Louie brings an extra-special surprise in his pickup truck: the tipi that’s been passed down through their family for generations. The girls learn how to stack the poles and wrap the canvas covering around them, how to paint spirit pictures on its walls, and how the circle of the tipi tells its own story, reminding us to how to live in the great Circle of Life. Over long days spent playing outside, doing beadwork together, telling stories, singing songs, and sleeping under the stars, the tipi brings the family closer together. As summer draws to an end, goodbye comes all too soon, but Clara will always cling to the memories of summer days and starry nights . . . and Grandma’s tipi.
Grandma's Tipi: A Present-Day Lakota Story was written and illustrated by S. D. Nelson and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
A heartwarming and humorous story about one girl determined to embrace the spice of sambal in order to connect with her grandmother and heritage—perfect for fans of Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao and Thank You, Omu!
When Lintang finally gets to taste her nenek’s yummy, mouthwatering sambal, she’s delighted! But when she takes a bite it’s . . . SPICY!
Her lips burn, her mouth feels like it’s on fire, and her taste buds are crying for help. Desperate to fit in with her family, Lintang tries many different types of sambal, but they’re . . . HOT!
With a little help from Nenek, will Lintang find a way to beat the heat and connect with her Indonesian heritage?
Spicy Spicy Hot! was written and illustrated by Lenny Wen and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
From award-winning author Heather Smith, a heartwarming, moving story about loss - and remembering.
When Granny dies, a young child and their family have a hole in their hearts. They find it helps them fill it to remember her through the things she left behind. To the father, she left a tuba, and to the mother, a locket. To the sister, she left a microscope, and to the brother, a record collection. To the main character, though, Granny left something different: a world of adventure, that they visit with their memories. Through imaginative play with items that belonged to Granny, the child travels near and far. And Granny is right beside them, along for the ride.
Granny Left Me a Rocket Ship was written by Heather Smith, illustrated by Ashley Barron and published by Kids Can Press.
For one girl, summers used to mean helping Lolo run his sari-sari store, which was always brimming with goods for the neighborhood: shampoo packets for Ate Jane, rice and eggs for Tonton, and a sympathetic ear for anyone who needed it. “Sari-sari means a good variety—just look around and you’ll see. What help can you give your community?” Lolo would say, as he filled his shelves with what people would need.
Now that she’s far from the Philippines, she misses Lolo and the friendly faces that surrounded his sari-sari store. But when she remembers her grandfather’s words, her heart keeps Lolo close, and she starts to see opportunities for connection and community in her new home.
Lolo’s Sari-sari Store was written by Sophia N. Lee, illustrated by Christine Almeda and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
"Jojo, come dance!" Lola calls, inviting him to leap between the clapping and slapping bamboo poles and dance the tinikling with her. Whirling, twirling, and singing in Tagalog, Jojo tries but trips. Lola dances between the two poles easily, the same way she dances between their American and Filipino cultures--Jojo knows that dance! And finally, spinning and hopping to the rhythm of his life, he's dancing the tinikling! Part of the Own Voices, Own Stories Collection.
Dancing the Tinikling was written by Bobbie Peyton, illustrated by Diobelle Cerna and published by Sleeping Bear Press.
Aarav loves his grandfather very much, but they’re as different as water and molasses. Where Aarav runs and races, Thatha likes to saunter and stroll. Every day at five o’clock, Thatha makes masala chai for the family, and no matter how much Aarav urges him to hurry, Thatha insists on taking his time. “Masala chai cannot be rushed,” says Thatha. “It must be made carefully.” One day, when Thatha sprains his ankle and must rest on the couch, Aarav eagerly decides he’d like to make the chai himself—after all, what would make his grandfather feel better than a cup of warm, spiced sweetness? But no matter how hard Aarav tries, his rushing causes him to miss some crucial step. Will Aarav be able to slow down and get the recipe right? With charming illustrations by Neha Rawat that are as enticing as the aroma of spiced tea, author Rajani LaRocca invites readers in for a visit with Aarav and his family—and shares her favorite masala chai recipe at the end.
Masala Chai, Fast and Slow was written by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Neha Rawat and published by Candlewick Press.
A girl and her grandfather bond over a shared love of words. On their weekly walks, Jill and Nonno love to play their clever word game. “Hummingbird,” Jill says. “Sugar-drinker,” Nonno says. “Seaplane,” Jill says. “I do see a plane!” Nonno replies. But one day, Jill notices Nonno isn't interested in their game and is acting differently. Instead of silly words, he simply repeats the things that Jill says. When Jill asks her mother what's wrong, she says Nonno can't always find the words he's looking for. Is there anything Jill can do? A heartwarming story about making time for those we love and finding our own way of helping them - even when it seems like there's nothing we can do.
Other Words for Nonno was written by Dave Cameron, illustrated by Yong Ling Kang and published by Kids Can Press.
In this lyrical picture book by Kim Rogers (Wichita), with illustrations by Boston Globe-Horn Book Honoree Julie Flett (Cree-Métis), Becca watches her grandma create, play, and dance—and she knows that she wants to be just like Grandma.
Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, “Let me try,” Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful.
Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma.
And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma.
Just Like Grandma was written by Kim Rogers, illustrated by Julie Flett and published by Heartdrum.
A lush and endearing picture book about a young girl and the special days she spends with her Seeya, despite their language barrier.
Time that this child spends with her Seeya, grandfather in Sinhalese, is quiet. They speak different languages and can't communicate with words. But they communicate in other ways.
Together, they play dress-up, stomp in puddles, and go on adventures. They make pittu, tease each other when they're messy, and read to each other, even though they don't always understand what the other is saying. Because what matters is the time they spend together, and the love that they share.
Dinalie Dabarera's debut picture book is an achingly tender meditation on the unconditional love between a grandparent and grandchild.
Quiet Time with My Seeya was written and illustrated by Dinalie Dabarera and published by Roaring Brook Press.
Following You Be Mommy and You Be Daddy, it's Grandma's turn to have a fun and exhausting day with her granddaughter in this sweet, rhyming picture book.
Can you be Grandma and turn off the light?
Grandma’s too tired to be Grandma tonight.
She played dress-up and drank afternoon tea.
Helped you climb up the Sycamore tree.
Took a hike and went for a dip.
Now she’s exhausted! There’s an ache in her hip.
In this clever, rhyming picture book, a grandmother tells her granddaughter that she's simply too tired to be Grandma tonight and asks her granddaughter to take over for her.
An utterly relatable theme told with humor and heart provides a story parents, grandparents, and children will delight in reading together at bedtime.
You Be Grandma was written by Karla Clark, illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda and published by Feiwel & Friends.
A girl and her grandfather’s shared love for the moon brings them comfort and keeps them close even when they’re apart.
Eleanor is born during a brilliant harvest moon. Moments after her birth, while she lies safely in her grandfather’s arms, he tells her, “No matter where we are, we will always share the moon.”
And they do. As Eleanor grows, her grandpa teaches her to love the moon. Together they observe it in all its permutations as it waxes and wanes. Soon, Eleanor sees the moon in everything, and when she and her parents move away, these moon sightings give her comfort and make her feel like her grandfather is close by.
A debut picture book from author/illustrator Maggie Knaus, Eleanor’s Moon is a charming and cozy story that assures children a loved one can always be connected to them, even when they’re apart.
Eleanor’s Moon was written and illustrated by Maggie Knaus and published by Owlkids.
From the bestselling illustrator of Strictly No Elephants comes a sweetly personal and stunningly illustrated picture book about a young girl who grows closer to her grandfather by tending to the garden with him.
When I am as small
as a sprout,
Grandfather’s garden feels
big.
A young girl observes the bugs and blooms and the rich smell of the soil of her grandfather’s garden. Her grandfather hums as he waters his treasured plants. And when he gives the girl a flower of her own, caring for it teaches her to feel her grandfather’s love.
Even as time passes and her grandfather’s garden grows smaller and the girl grows up, she never forgets what she learned or loses her closeness with her nurturing grandfather.
When my daughter is as small
as a sprout, we visit Grandfather
together.
Inspired by the author-illustrator’s own family, this beautiful and personal story celebrates the love that binds families and makes us who we are.
Love Makes a Garden Grow was written and illustrated by Taeeun Yoo and published by Paula Wiseman Books.
It's market day for Samira and her grandma! The bazaar is crowded, but this sweet pair knows how to stick together in this silly picture book set in Iran.
Mama Shamsi is off to the market, and today, Samira gets to go with her! Samira loves spending time with her grandmother, and she especially loves her chador, which Mama Shamsi wraps around herself every time they leave the house. As the pair get closer and closer to the market, Samira is worried about getting lost in the crowded streets of Tehran, until she has an idea: She can hide under her grandmother's chador. But when Mama Shamsi says no—if Samira hides under there, the pair of them will look like a strange animal! In imaginary spreads, Samira and Mama Shamsi turn into a donkey, a giraffe, a kangaroo, a turtle—hiding isn't working at all. But maybe there's some other way for Samira to stay safe with her grandma in the crowded market.
Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar was written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, illustrated by Maya Fidawi and published by Dial Books.
A heartwarming picture book about a young boy who learns to accept that Abuela needs to retire her super capa.
Saturdays are superhero days. Equipped with their milkshakes and capas, Luis and his abuela can turn anything into an adventure. But when Abuela gets sick, Luis has to learn a new way to be a hero. With some help from his sister, Luis learns that change isn’t all that bad and there are many new adventures to have, even if they look a little different.
Abuela’s Super Capa was written by Ana Siqueira, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri and published by HarperCollins. Also published in Spanish as La supercapa de Abuela.
In the latest Lola Reads book, Lola welcomes a special visitor—her grandmother Nana-Bibi!
Lola's grandmother is coming to visit, and Lola can't wait for all the family fun. Nana-Bibi will stay in Lola's room, so Lola gets to sleep on a special blow-up bed. The family spends the week doing different activities, like shopping for presents for family back in Tanzania, having dance parties, and making special mandazi doughnuts. Nana-Bibi and Lola share a special time as Nana-Bibi remembers all the things she used to do with her nana.
This multigenerational celebration of grandmas, moms, and grandaughters will reassure all children preparing for a visit from a faraway relative.
Lola's Nana-Bibi Comes to Visit was written by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw and published by Charlesbridge.
Gigi decides she doesn’t want to be called Gigi anymore in this Level Three I Can Read adventure.
Gigi wants to go by something besides her baby name—but her full name, Geraldine, is too long to write, and Hanako, her middle name, doesn’t feel quite right. Will Gigi find the perfect name?
This Level Three I Can Read book is geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. The story contains several Japanese words and a glossary of definitions.
Gigi and Ojiji: What’s in a Name? was written and illustrated by Melissa Iwai and published by HarperCollins.
A 2022 Coretta Scott King Book Award Illustrator Honor Book!
On Sundays, everyone gathers at Granny’s for Soul Food.
But today, I don’t go to the backyard or the great room.
I follow Granny instead.
“You’re a big boy now,” Granny says. “Time for you to learn.”
At Granny’s, Sunday isn’t Sunday without a big family gathering over a lovingly prepared meal. Old enough now, our narrator is finally invited to help cook the dishes for the first time: He joins Granny in grating the cheese, cleaning the greens, and priming the meat for Roscoe Ray’s grill. But just when Granny says they’re finished, her grandson makes his own contribution, sweetening this Sunday gathering—and the many more to come.
Evocatively written and vividly illustrated, this mouthwatering story is a warm celebration of tradition and coming together at a table filled with love and delicious food.
Soul Food Sunday was written by Winsome Bingham, illustrated by C. G. Esperanza and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
When Jyoti visits her grandmother halfway around the world, she is overwhelmed by the differences between India and home. At first she feels lonely and out of place, but soon, despite a language barrier, she and Sita Pati are able to understand each other. They form a bond—looking at books together, making designs with colored sand, shopping at the market, playing games, eating chapatis, and sipping warm milk with saffron to bring sweet dreams. When it’s time to part, Jyoti doesn’t want to leave, but then she remembers that in Tamil, people don’t say goodbye, they say “I’ll go and come back.” Sure enough, the two reunite the next summer when Pati visits Jyoti in America, and it’s Jyoti’s turn to make her grandmother feel welcome. Can they create some special memories that will last until the next time they see each other?
I’ll Go and Come Back was written by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Sara Palacios and published by Candlewick Press.
A million kisses! Hugs! Hooray!
Our grand day begins this way.
Whether planting a garden, having a picnic, or baking, any day spent together is sure to be grand.
Follow all kinds of family configurations as grandparents and grandchildren celebrate togetherness: baking, exploring, gardening, and all of life’s joyful moments. This rhyming, warmhearted picture book captures the unique bond between grandparents and grandchildren in every kind of family!
A Grand Day was written by Jean Reidy, illustrated by Samantha Cotterill and published by Paula Wiseman Books.
At Grandma’s house, where Julia is staying without her parents for the first time, the breeze is sweet like jasmine. Mornings begin with sugared bread, and the most magnificent hot chocolate cures all homesickness. There’s something about this place . . . and about Grandma. Like how she can tell when Julia has been quietly picking limes from the garden. Or that she can see the future—and knows when Julia is about to fall off her bike. Or how she can journey back in time through the stories she tells. In the room where Julia’s mother grew up, her grandmother holds her in a warm embrace—an embrace that Julia will pass on to her family when her parents arrive with her new baby brother. With Tania de Regil’s heartfelt illustrations, incorporating poems by her great-grandfather that were handwritten by her grandmother, Something About Grandma offers a tender and playful exploration of the magic of intergenerational love and wisdom.
Something About Grandma was written and illustrated by Tania de Regil and published by Candlewick Press. Also published in Spanish as Un verano especial con abuela.
A young girl in the Philippines uses music to connect with her grandmother as her memory fades in this warm and moving picture book perfect for fans of Pixar’s Coco. There is always singing in Lola’s house. Sammy Davis Jr. in the morning, Dean Martin in the afternoon, and all throughout the evening, old Tagalog love songs from Nora Aunor, Basil Valdez, and more. Lola always says: “If you want to hold on, you gotta sing your songs.” Her granddaughter tucks these sounds and Lola’s wisdom deep within her heart. And when Lola starts slipping into silence and stillness, she helps Lola hold on, piece by piece, with the joy and music that Lola taught her.
Holding On was written by Sophia N. Lee, illustrated by Isabel Roxas and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Holding On here.
A moving, multigenerational story about love, family roots, and the cycle of life.
When Emilia finds a walnut one morning, Grandpa tells her the story behind it: of his journey across the ocean to a new home, with only one small bag and a nut in his pocket.
“I planted my little tree in good brown soil, so it would grow strong here forever.”
“In this house? In this yard?”
“Shall we go see?”
Step by step, Grandpa teaches Emilia how to cultivate her own seed. But as her little nut grows, Grandpa begins to slow down—until one sad day, Emilia has to say goodbye. Emilia’s sapling looks as droopy as she feels . . . but she knows just what to do.
From acclaimed author and illustrator Ammi-Joan Paquette and Felicita Sala, this tender story is a poignant reminder that the best things grow with time—and that even when they are no longer here, the ones we love are always a part of us.
All from a Walnut was written by Ammi-Joan Paquette, illustrated by Felicita Sala and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of All from a Walnut here.
Once, in a tiny village in India, there was a young boy who loved to paint. He lived with his grandfather, who taught him to paint with his fingers, to make paints from marigolds and brushes made from jasmine flowers. Sometimes, the village children would watch them painting together, and the boy's grandfather would invite them to join in. They didn't have much, but they had each other. After his grandfather dies, the boy notices a little box wrapped in string with a note that read: "From Dadaji, with love," with his grandfather's best paintbrush tucked away inside. But he feels he will never want to paint again. Will the boy overcome his grief and find joy in painting and his dadaji's memory again? From Rashmi Sirdeshpande and Ruchi Mhasane comes a lushly illustrated tale of love, art, and family.
Dadaji's Paintbrush was written by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane and published by Levine Querido. Its scheduled publication date is August 23, 2022.
Nina lives in San Francisco with her parents, and she loves visiting her two grandmas across the world. Follow Nina as her two trips unfold side by side: Young readers will love poring over the details of what is the same and what is different at Nana’s home in England and at Nenek’s home in Malaysia. In each place, Nina wears different clothes, plays different games, and eats different food. But so much about visiting Nana and Nenek is the same, from warm hugs at the airport to beach days and bedtime snuggles. Nina is equally at home across the world in Malaysia or England, and both of her grandmas love her to California and back.
Nana, Nenek & Nina was written and illustrated by Liza Ferneyhough and published by Dial Books. Its scheduled publication date is August 9, 2022.
A picture book celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions. The Governor General Award--winning team behind When We Were Alone shares a story that honors our connections to our past and our grandfathers and fathers.
WINNER OF THE GOVERNOR GENERAL'S AWARD
A boy and Moshom, his grandpa, take a trip together to visit a place of great meaning to Moshom. A trapline is where people hunt and live off the land, and it was where Moshom grew up. As they embark on their northern journey, the child repeatedly asks his grandfather, "Is this your trapline?" Along the way, the boy finds himself imagining what life was like two generations ago -- a life that appears to be both different from and similar to his life now. This is a heartfelt story about memory, imagination and intergenerational connection that perfectly captures the experience of a young child's wonder as he is introduced to places and stories that hold meaning for his family.
On the Trapline was written by David A. Robertson, illustrated by Julie Fleet and published by Tundra Books.
Kylie is nervous about visiting her grandmother—her Amah—who lives SO FAR AWAY. When she and Mama finally go to Taipei, Kylie is shy with Amah. Even though they have spent time together in video chats, those aren’t the same as real life. And in Taiwan, Kylie is at first uncomfortable with the less-familiar language, customs, culture, and food. However, after she is invited by Amah—Lái kàn kàn! Come see!—to play and splash in the hot springs (which aren’t that different from the pools at home), Kylie begins to see this place through her grandmother’s eyes and sees a new side of the things that used to scare her. Soon, Kylie is leading her Amah—Come see! Lái kàn kàn!—back through all her favorite parts of this place and having SO MUCH FUN! And when it is time to go home, the video chats will be extra special until they can visit faraway again.
Amah Faraway was written by Margaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Tracy Subisak and published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books.
Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade's first self-authored picture book is a gorgeous celebration of the land she knows well and the powerful wisdom of elders.
On an island at the edge of a wide, wild sea, a girl and her grandmother gather gifts from the earth. Salmon from the stream, herring eggs from the ocean, and in the forest, a world of berries.
Salmonberry, Cloudberry, Blueberry, Nagoonberry.
Huckleberry, Snowberry, Strawberry, Crowberry.
Through the seasons, they sing to the land as the land sings to them. Brimming with joy and gratitude, in every step of their journey, they forge a deeper kinship with both the earth and the generations that came before, joining in the song that connects us all. Michaela Goade's luminous rendering of water and forest, berries and jams glows with her love of the land and offers an invitation to readers to deepen their own relationship with the earth.
Berry Song was written and illustrated by Michaela Goade and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Berry Song here.
A warm story of the bond between young and old that evokes the wild, windswept banks of Newfoundland—and the joys of a traditional way of life.
In a picture book as cozy as wool socks and as sweeping as a lighthouse beam, a little girl takes a ferry to an island to spend time with her Poppy. After fresh-baked bread for breakfast, the two tidy up, garden, and set out to explore together. They pass docks and green hills specked with puffins, counting their favorite things along the way: masts, animal tracks, silvery waves. At the end of each day, they snuggle on Poppy’s worn velvet armchair to read by lantern light. When it’s time to travel home, the little girl begins counting the days until she and Poppy will be together again. A patchwork of exquisitely patterned and textured art evokes a traditional quilt in this ode to coastal Canada and to the days spent with an attentive, caring older person.
Poppy’s House was written by Karla Courtney, illustrated by Madeline Kloepper and published by Candlewick Press. Read our review and preview the interiors of Poppy’s House here.
When a little boy visits his grandfather across the ocean in Korea, everything about him feels and smells strange. The boy can’t understand what his grandpa says and he doesn’t like what his grandpa eats...not to mention that his grandpa’s house is the most boring place on earth! But as the boy gets to know his grandpa little by little — discovering what a great singer he is, exuberant sand castle builder and even troublemaker — he realizes that he and his grandpa might be more alike than not! A whimsical and special celebration of the grandparent-grandchild bond.
Grandpa Across the Ocean was written and illustrated by Hyewon Yum and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
A picture book about a young immigrant who stays connected to her grandmother through communication and love.
With tender language and striking art, I Dream of Popo follows a young girl as she and her family emigrate from Taiwan to San Diego, leaving behind the narrator's maternal grandmother, Popo.
The story touches on learning a new language, acclimating to a new home, and the changing relationship the child maintains with her beloved Popo even when they are apart. Over time, their visits are fleeting, but their love is ever true and strong.
This delicate, emotionally rich picture book celebrates a special connection that crosses time zones and oceans as Popo and her granddaughter hold each other in their hearts forever.
I Dream of Popo was written by Livia Blackburne, illustrated by Julia Kuo and published by Roaring Brook Press. Read our review and preview the interiors of I Dream of Popo here.
From award-winning author Mitali Perkins comes her timely debut picture book about love overcoming the border fences between Mexico and the United States.
It's almost time for Christmas, and Maria is traveling with her mother and younger brother, Juan, to visit their grandmother on the border of California and Mexico.
For the few minutes they can share together along the fence, Maria and her brother plan to exchange stories and Christmas gifts with the grandmother they haven't seen in years. But when Juan's gift is too big to fit through the slats in the fence, Maria has a brilliant idea. She makes it into a kite that soars over the top of the iron bars.
Here is a heartwarming tale of multicultural families, and the miracle of love.
Between Us and Abuela: A Family Story from the Border was written by Mitali Perkins, illustrated by Sara Palacios and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers.
When Grandma comes to visit and a young boy's parents leave, the rules of the house—and the world—change: grandson and grandmother transform into jaguars! Readers follow their journey into the undiscovered world of nature, experience true freedom, and lose themselves in an exhilarating adventure. After a day of playing, running, and climbing through sumptuous landscapes, the ending will leave you wondering what's real and what's imagined.
We Became Jaguars was written by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Woodrow White and published by Chronicle Books.
Curious about poems and where they come from, Kiyoshi consults his grandfather, the wise poet Eto. Eto takes his grandson for a walk and they observe different goings-on in the neighborhood. Kiyoshi slowly discovers that poems are all around him — they’re in the things he sees and hears. He realizes that they’re inside him, too — his feelings also make poems. This extraordinary story about inspiration and the art of haiku would serve as a valuable mentor text in classrooms and homes.
Kiyoshi’s Walk was written by Mark Karlins, illustrated by Nicole Wong and published by Lee & Low Books.
Daisy's Yeh-Yeh is visiting for the first time from China, and Daisy is so excited to meet him! She has big plans for all the fun they'll have together, like tea parties and snow angels, but when Yeh-Yeh arrives, Daisy finds him less jolly than she imagined. Throughout the week, she tries all sorts of things to get him past his grumpiness. Will she be able to make him smile before he goes home?
Kids will love this funny and heartwarming story about overcoming cultural differences and connecting across generations!
Grandpa Grumps was written by Katrina Moore, illustrated by Xindi Yan and published by Little Bee Books. Don’t miss its follow-up, Grumpy New Year.
We took Big Papa’s time machine to a long time ago.
We took it to when Big Papa worked in the sky.
Way, way up on top of tall buildings wrapped in coats of smoke and ash.
“You was so high up,” I said. “Wasn’t you scared?”
A little boy who lives with his grandpa isn’t reprimanded for being afraid to go to school one day. Instead, Big Papa takes him away in his time machine—a 1952 Ford—back to all of the times when he himself was scared of something life was handing him.
In this dreamlike journey, Bernstrom and Evans masterfully explore crucial moments of African American history—happy and sad—inviting the young and the old to share their stories of courage across time.
Back matter includes a note from the author that explains his inspiration for the story as well as a photograph of him and the real Big Papa.
Big Papa and the Time Machine was written by Daniel Bernstrom, illustrated by Shane Evans and published by HarperCollins.
A snowy day, a trip to Grandma's, time spent cooking with one another, and space to pause and discover the world around you come together in this perfect book for reading and sharing on a cozy winter day.
One winter morning, Lina wakes up to silence. It's the sound of snow -- the kind that looks soft and glows bright in the winter sun. But as she walks to her grandmother's house to help make the family recipe for warak enab, she continues to listen.
As Lina walks past snowmen and across icy sidewalks, she discovers ten ways to pay attention to what might have otherwise gone unnoticed. With stunning illustrations by Kenard Pak and thoughtful representation of a modern Arab American family from Cathy Camper, Ten Ways to Hear Snow is a layered exploration of mindfulness, empathy, and what we realize when the world gets quiet.
Ten Ways to Hear Snow was written by Cathy Camper, illustrated by Kenard Pak and published by Kokila Books. Read our review and preview the interiors of Ten Ways to Hear Snow here.
In this heartwarming sequel to Laurel Snyder's children story book, Charlie & Mouse, the two brothers enjoy a special visit from their grandpa, Grumpy. Follow along as they discuss being medium, pounce each other, sing the wrong songs, build blanket forts, and more. Paired with effervescent illustrations by Emily Hughes, this touching, funny children's book is a celebration of imagination and bonding will enchant young readers.
Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy was written by Laurel Snyder, illustrated by Emily Hughes and published by Chronicle Books.
The recipient of the APALA Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature!
When a young boy visits his grandfather, their lack of a common language leads to confusion, frustration, and silence. But as they sit down to draw together, something magical happens—with a shared love of art and storytelling, the two form a bond that goes beyond words.
With spare, direct text by Minh Lê and luminous illustrations by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat, this stirring picture book about reaching across barriers will be cherished for years to come.
Drawn Together was written by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Drawn Together here.
Winner of the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award.
When Katherena and her mother move to a small town, Katherena feels lonely and out of place. But when she meets an elderly woman artist who lives next door, named Agnes––her world starts to change.
Katherena and Agnes share the same passions for arts and crafts, birds, and nature. But as the seasons change, can Katherna navigate the failing health of her new friend?
Award-winning author and artist Julie Flett’s textured images of birds, flowers, art, and landscapes bring vibrancy and warmth to this powerful story, which highlights the fulfillment of intergenerational relationships, shared passions, and spending time outdoors with the ones we love.
Includes a glossary and pronunciation guide to Cree words that appear in the text.
Birdsong was written and illustrated by Julie Flett and published by Greystone Kids. Read our review and preview the interiors of Birdsong here.
A day in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when a bored little girl makes a connection with her grandpa.
May isn't having fun on her trip through Chinatown with her grandfather. Gong Gong doesn't speak much English, and May can't understand Chinese. She's hungry, and bored with Gong Gong's errands. Plus, it seems like Gong Gong's friends are making fun of her! But just when May can’t take any more, Gong Gong surprises her with a gift that reveals he’s been paying more attention than she thought.
With lighthearted, expressive illustrations by Elaine Chen, this charming debut expertly captures life in the cityand shows how small, shared moments of patience and care—and a dumpling or two—can help a child and grandparent bridge the generational and cultural gaps between them.
A glossary at the end of the book features translations of the Chinese words from the story into Chinese characters and English.
My Day with Gong Gong was written by Sennah Yee, illustrated by Elaine Chen and published by Annick Press. Read our review and preview the interiors of My Day with Gong Gong here.
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” In this imaginative take on that popular saying, a child is surprised (and disappointed) to receive a lemon tree from Grandma for her birthday. After all, she DID ask for a new gadget! But when she follows the narrator’s careful—and funny—instructions, she discovers that the tree might be exactly what she wanted after all. This clever story, complete with a recipe for lemonade, celebrates the pleasures of patience, hard work, nature, community . . . and putting down the electronic devices just for a while.
When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree was written by Jamie L. B. Deenihan, illustrated by Lorraine Rocha and published by Union Square Kids. Don’t miss its companion book, When Grandpa Gives You a Toolbox.
A tender and heart-warming story about the growing relationship between a boy and his grandmother, set in the world of The Storm Whale by bestselling picture book creator, Benji Davies.
Noi isn’t at all sure about staying at Grandma’s. Grandma boils seaweed for soup, and there’s not much to do on the tiny island where she lives where the wind cuts in and the grass grows sideways . . .
But that’s before Noi gets swept up in the dramatic rescue that will mark the beginning of their touching new friendship.
Grandma Bird was written and illustrated by Benji Davies and published by Simon & Schuster Children’s UK.
A breathtaking picture book featuring a Korean girl and her haenyeo (free diving) grandmother about intergenerational bonds, finding courage in the face of fear, and connecting with our natural world.
Dayeon wants to be a haenyeo just like Grandma. The haenyeo dive off the coast of Jeju Island to pluck treasures from the sea--generations of Korean women have done so for centuries. To Dayeon, the haenyeo are as strong and graceful as mermaids. To give her strength, Dayeon eats Grandma's abalone porridge. She practices holding her breath while they do the dishes. And when Grandma suits up for her next dive, Dayeon grabs her suit, flippers, and goggles. A scary memory of the sea keeps Dayeon clinging to the shore, but with Grandma's guidance, Dayeon comes to appreciate the ocean's many gifts.
The Ocean Calls was written by Tina Cho, illustrated by Jess X. Snow and published by Kokila.
The whole world is a treasure waiting to be found. Open your eyes and see the wonderful things all around. This is the story of a child and a grandfather whose walk around the neighborhood leads to a day of shared wonder as they discover all sorts of tiny, perfect things together. With rhythmic storytelling and detailed and intricate illustrations, this is a book about how childlike curiosity can transform ordinary days into extraordinary adventures.
Tiny, Perfect Things was written by M. H. Clark, illustrated by Madeline Kloepper and published by Compendium. Read our review and preview the interiors of Tiny, Perfect Things here.
“Thursdays are my favorite days.”
“Mine, too.”
Every morning Papa follows his normal routine. He drinks his tea, waters his plants, tidies up, and takes the bus into town. Papa enjoys his daily tasks, but there’s one day each week that is extra special. That’s the day he might visit the craft store, get two orders of dumplings to go, and possibly pick some flowers he sees along the path. With its spare text and wonderfully warm watercolor and cut-paper illustrations just begging to be pored over, Joowon Oh’s tale of the singular love between a grandfather and granddaughter will nestle within the heart of every reader.
Our Favorite Day was written by Joowon Oh and published by Candlewick Press.
A powerful, lyrical debut picture book celebrating diversity for children from all backgrounds and of all colors, especially for kids who have ever felt like they don’t belong.
Where am I from?
You’re from hurricanes and dark storms, and a tiny singing frog that calls the island people home when the sun goes to sleep....
When a little girl is asked where she’s from—where she’s really from—she’s no longer as sure as she was about her answer. She turns to her abuelo for help. However, he doesn’t quite give her the response she expects. She gets an even better one.
Where Are You From? was written by Yamile Saied Méndez, illustrated by Jaime Kim and published by HarperCollins. Read our review and preview the interiors of Where Are You From? here.
In this Caldecott Honor winner perfect for the Thanksgiving season and for fans of Last Stop on Market Street, a generous woman is rewarded by her community. A Spanish edition, ¡Gracias, Omu!, is also available for purchase.
Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu's delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself?
Debut author-illustrator Oge Mora brings to life a heartwarming story of sharing and community in colorful cut-paper designs as luscious as Omu's stew, with an extra serving of love. An author's note explains that "Omu" (pronounced AH-moo) means "queen" in the Igbo language of her parents, but growing up, she used it to mean "Grandma." This book was inspired by the strong female role models in Oge Mora's life.
Thank you, Omu! was written and illustrated by Oge Mora and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Thank you, Omu! here.
This brilliantly illustrated picture book tells the story of the Aajibaichi Shala, the Grandmother School, that was opened in Phangane, India, in 2016 to teach local grandmothers how to read and write.
Every morning, a young girl walks her grandmother to the Aajibaichi Shala, the school that was built for the grandmothers in her village to have a place to learn to read and write.
The narrator beams with pride as she drops her grandmother off with the other aajis to practice the alphabet and learn simple arithmetic. A moving story about family, women and the power of education—when Aaji learns to spell her name you’ll want to dance along with her.
Women in countless countries continue to endure the limitations of illiteracy. Unjust laws have suppressed the rights of girls and women and kept many from getting an education and equal standing in society. Based on a true story from the village of Phangane, India, this brilliantly illustrated book tells the story of the grandmothers who got to go to school for the first time in their lives.
Grandmother School was written by Rina Singh, illustrated by Ellen Rooney and published by Orca Book Publishers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Grandmother School here.
A poetic, gentle reflection on the loss of a grandparent.
One young girl reflects on a year with her beloved grandpa. She remembers the fields and parks they explored in the springtime and the old toys they fixed up in the summer. She remembers the handmade gifts they exchanged in the fall and the stories Grandpa told by the fi re each winter. But this year, the girl must say good-bye to Grandpa. In the face of her grief, she is determined to find a way to honor him. She decides to record her Grandpa stories in the notebook he made for her and carry Grandpa with her as she grows. An honest and relatable depiction of loss, Grandpa’s Stories celebrates life and the ways in which love lives on.
Grandpa’s Stories was written by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Allison Colpoys and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Grandpa’s Stories here.
Here is a celebration of the unique bond between grandparents and grandchildren. Maud loves the weekends when she stays at her grandma's house. There's always breakfast for supper, matching nightgowns, black-and-white movies, and--best of all--someone to listen to her dreams for her life as a grown-up. But what makes the visits extra special is what Grand-Maud has hidden in an old chest under Maud's bed. She may find a paint set, a toy, homemade cookies, or hand-knit mittens or sweaters. Best of all is when Maud finds something that belonged to Grand-Maud when she was a little girl. In this story of family togetherness, Maud wants to be just like Grand-Maud when she grows up.
Maud and Grand-Maud was written by Sara O’Leary, illustrated by Kenard Pak and published by Random House Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Maud and Grand-Maud here.
The first time Abuela holds Nina, her heart overflows with tenderness. And as Nina grows up, she and Abuela spend plenty of time together. Abuela can’t help thinking how much she’d like to give Nina a very special treat, so she saves a little bit of her money every week — a few pesos here, a few pesos there. When the world turns upside down, Abuela’s dream of a surprise for Nina seems impossible. Luckily, time spent together — and the love Abuela and Nina have for each other — could turn out to be the very best gift of all. With a soft and subtle hand, author-illustrator Cecilia Ruiz draws from her own history to share a deeply personal tale about remembering what’s most important when life starts to get in the way.
A Gift from Abuela was written and illustrated by Cecilia Ruiz and published by Candlewick Press.
From the creators of the gorgeous bestseller The Night Gardener comes a stunning new picture book about a young boy who sets sail to find a place his grandfather told him about…the spot where the ocean meets the sky.
It’s a good day for sailing.
Finn lives by the sea and the sea lives by him. Every time he looks out his window it’s a constant reminder of the stories his grandfather told him about the place where the ocean meets the sky. Where whales and jellyfish soar and birds and castles float.
Finn’s grandfather is gone now but Finn knows the perfect way to honor him. He’ll build his own ship and sail out to find this magical place himself!
And when he arrives, maybe, just maybe, he’ll find something he didn’t know he was looking for.
Ocean Meets Sky was written and illustrated by Eric and Terry Fan and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Ocean Meets Sky here.
When Mayumi was born, her grandfather created a garden for her. It was unlike any other garden she knew. It had no flowers or vegetables. Instead, Ojiichan made it out of stones: “big ones, little ones and ones in-between.” Every summer, Mayumi visits her grandfather in Japan, and they tend the garden together. Raking the gravel is her favorite part. Afterward, the two of them sit on a bench and enjoy the results of their efforts in happy silence. But then one summer, everything changes. Ojiichan has grown too old to care for his home and the garden. He has to move. Will Mayumi find a way to keep the memory of the garden alive for both of them?
Ojichan’s Gift was written by Chieri Uegaki, illustrated by Genevieve Simms and published by Kids Can Press. Read our review and preview the interiors of Ojichan’s Gift here.
It’s summer and Little Kunoichi’s friends are away on vacation. After exploring every nook and cranny of her super, super secret island home with her pet, Bunny, she is bored, bored, BORED! Little Kunoichi shares her ideas to spice things up–a new bike, another pet–with her parents. But they have a better idea: a visit to her wise, quirky, and creative grandma, Ba-chan!
Little Kunoichi, joined by her little brother and Bunny, is excited for her visit. They are met with many surprises as they spend time with Ba-chan on an island she made herself and together learn that curiosity, resourcefulness, love, and imagination have more value than things money can buy.
Ba-Chan the Ninja Grandma was written and illustrated by Sanae Ishida and published by Little Bigfoot. Read our review and preview the interiors of Ba-chan The Ninja Grandma here.
Yumi and her grandmother have the same great idea: They want to see each other. So they each head out to do just that, only to completely miss each other along the way! No problem—they'll just head back home and wait for the other to return. The trouble is that they have the same great idea—again—resulting in the ultimate missed connection! Will this duo ever find each other? Leave it to bestselling author-illustrator Taro Gomi to spin an action-packed story that sweetly, and humorously, celebrates the powerful grandparent-child bond.
I Really Want to See You, Grandma was written and illustrated by Taro Gomi and published by Chronicle Books. It was originally published in Japan in 1979. Read our review of I Really Want to See You, Grandma here.
Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever.
Letters to my Grandparent will inspire you to share memories, drawings, and well wishes for a grandparent to warm their heart.
Each letter begins with a unique prompt like:
Here are three special memories I have of us...
A special place we share is...
You are wonderful because...
Included are 12 letters that will inspire grandchildren to stay connected to their grandparents.
Each letter has a space to write when it was sealed and when it should be opened (will it be tomorrow or in 20 years?). Seal letters with the included stickers before giving this time capsule to a grandparent!
Letters to My Grandparent was created by Lea Redmond and published by Chronicle Books.
Join a boy and his grandfather as they enjoy a snow day in the park!
Every child loves a snow day—no school and snowball fights galore! But Sam has to wait for Granddad, even though all the other kids have already gone to the park . . . and all the dogs . . . and all the zoo animals! Only when the two finally arrive does Granddad see why Sam was in such a hurry—and they have the best time playing with everyone in the snow.
Snow was written and illustrated by Sam Usher, and published by Templar Books. Read our review and preview the interiors of Snow here.
A tender family story that offers a gentle window into the issue of aging and memory loss for young readers.
Grandma loves teatime--and so does her granddaughter--from picking out a special cup, to brewing the tea, to sharing stories at the table. But lately, Grandma seems forgetful. She doesn't always remember to turn off the faucet when filling the teakettle. Sometimes she even confuses her granddaughter's name. How one little girl helps her grandmother remember their special ritual makes for a heartwarming story that will strike a chord with any family coping with elderly relatives who suffer from memory loss.
Finding Grandma’s Memories was written and illustrated by Jiyeon Pak and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers. Read our review and preview the interiors of Finding Grandma’s Memories here.
When Grandma Mimi comes to visit, she always brings warm hugs, sweet treats...and her purse. You never know what she'll have in there--fancy jewelry, tokens from around the world, or something special just for her granddaughter. It might look like a normal bag from the outside, but Mimi and her granddaughter know that it's pure magic!
In this adorable, energetic ode to visits from grandma, beloved picture book creator Vanessa Brantley Newton shows how an ordinary day can become extraordinary.
Grandma’s Purse was written and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers.
In this magical picture book, a young boy spends an overnight visit with his nana and is frightened to find that the city where she lives is filled with noise and crowds and scary things. But then Nana makes him a special cape to help him be brave, and soon the everyday sights, sounds, and smells of the city are not scary—but wonderful. The succinct text is paired with watercolor illustrations that capture all the vitality, energy, and beauty of the city.
Nana in the City was written and illustrated by Lauren Castillo and published by Clarion Books.
The following intergenerational picture books will publish in the fall and winter of 2023.
It's time for the twins to go on a nature expedition with Bompa. What marvelous place will they explore this time? Tidepools at the sea? The pond full of frogs' eggs? Maybe deep in the forest? But to their disappointment, they are just exploring outside the door. Yet, as they begin to search for insects, they find world-champion flyers, eaters, and weightlifters. And more tiny surprises at every turn!
With their Bompa at their side, they find a way to recognize the amazing feats and important role of all insects. . . even the annoying ones! Featuring gorgeous art by Qin Leng, this picture book is a lush, colorful tour through a world we too often overlook.
This adventure into the extraordinary world of bugs is inspired by David Suzuki's adventures with his own grandkids.
Bompa's Insect Expedition was written by David Suzuki and Tanya Lloyd Kyi, illustrated by Qin Leng, and published by Greystone Kids. Its scheduled publication date is September 19, 2023.
Felix and Grandma have always lived oceans apart—until the day Grandma arrives. Felix is so excited to meet Grandma and spend time with her.
Except she doesn’t know English!
And he doesn’t know much Vietnamese!
But maybe they can connect in other ways—like over their shared love of pizza.
One day, when Grandma gets lost and doesn’t know how to ask for help, Felix decides to teach her English. And by working together and teaching each other, they just might learn to share words as well.
This tender and heartwarming story from Angela Pham Krans and Dung Ho shows how love transcends language and how food and flashcards can bring family together.
Words Between Us was written by Angela Pham Krans, illustrated by Dung Ho and published by HarperCollins. Its scheduled publication date is October 3, 2023.
Simon doesn’t want the baby to come. He was happy with just his mom, dad, and Pappa. Now, Mom and Dad are at the hospital, and Simon and Pappa are waiting for news at home.
Knowing how hard it is to wait, Pappa starts Simon on a project of making one hundred chapatis. They measure the ingredients, knead and roll the dough, and then drop them one by one into a giant frying pan. Soon, Simon is so busy that he forgets to worry. “Can I show the baby how to make chapatis?” he asks Pappa. And before they know it, Pappa is frying up the one hundredth chapati … and the phone is ringing!
A debut picture book with texture-rich illustrations and simple evocative text, 100 Chapatis is a gentle lesson in patience that makes for a wonderful read-aloud.
100 Chapatis was written by Derek Mascarenhas, illustrated by Shantala Robinson and published by Owlkids. Its scheduled publication date is October 17, 2023.
A stunning picture book about a family's connection to their land, their home, and each other — from the creators of My First Day.
Long ago, Grandfather came to a new land. Fish swam in the water, birds chirped in the sky, monkeys played in the trees. And in this wilderness, with his own two hands, Grandfather built a house.
It wasn't easy. But the land gave him what he needed. And it became his home. Decades later, his grandson will have all he needs: a head full of memories, two capable hands, and the heart to appreciate family, nature, and home. This picture book creates a warm symphony of conservation and the sacred bond between grandparent and child, perfect for baby showers, birthdays, and family celebrations.
My Grandfather’s Song was written and illustrated by Phung Nguyen Quang and Huynh Kim Lien, and published by Make Me a World. Its scheduled publication date is October 17, 2023.
A loving, gentle picture book debut about a young Malaysian boy who wants to help his grandmother prepare traditional meals for their New Year’s feast.
Jin loves the aromas and the bubbly chatter coming from his kitchen. He loves to breathe in the bright citrusy notes of kaffir lime leaves and the zesty tang of lemongrass as his aunties float around as they dice, slice, and cook for the New Year. There's nothing he wants more than to learn about the history of his family's cooking, and lend them a helping hand. But his aunties try to shoo him away, claiming that he'll just get bored or be in the way.
Luckily, his grandma intervenes and asks Jin to help her prepare their special New Year's dinner, creating a delicious tale filled with sweetness and spice that aims to warm the heart (and the stomach). A heartfelt celebration of family, honoring one's culture, and traditions, old and new.
Boys Don’t Fry was written by Kimberly Lee, illustrated by Charlene Chua and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is November 14, 2023.
Millie's grandma, her Lao Lao, passes down her dumpling recipe in this heartwarming story about community, culture, and belonging.
Millie loves cooking with her Lao Lao, and together they walk through Chinatown collecting fresh ingredients to make a steaming hot batch of dumplings. Chives from Auntie Lim, shrimp from Uncle Lee, and enough lychee to last all day make for the perfect dumplings and the perfect summer together for Millie and Lao Lao.
However, when winter rolls around and Lao Lao falls ill, it's up to Millie to remember Lao Lao's recipe and return to Chinatown to get all the right ingredients. With two teaspoons of patience, a pinch of luck, and a whole lot of love, Millie and her parents make a batch of dumplings that Lao Lao will never forget.
This is a celebration not only of good food, but of the loved ones we get to share good food with.
Laolao’s Dumplings was written by Dane Liu, illustrated by Shin Yeon Moon and published by Godwin Books. Its scheduled publication date is December 5, 2023.
A debut picture book about a girl who struggles to crochet a lucky hat for her Nai Nai's birthday and learns that the perfect gift comes from within.
Lyn Lyn's beloved Nai Nai has a birthday party approaching! All she wants to do is make her a lucky hat, but her crochet skills are not nearly as refined as her Nai Nai's. Lyn Lyn cleverly asks for Nai Nai's help, saying the hat is a gift "for a friend." She wants it to be a surprise, after all. As she struggles to crochet the gift for her grandma's birthday, making mistakes leaving her with a hole in the hat, her perseverance and their special bond lead Lyn Lyn to realize that the perfect gift for Nai Nai comes from within.
This is a love letter to all grandparents who have been there for us in more ways than one. The book will feature backmatter with a crochet pattern for young enthusiasts as well as an author's note so that the reader can learn some of the Chinese translations.
A Gift for Nai Nai was written and illustrated by Kim-Hoa Ung and published by Feiwel & Friends. Its scheduled publication date is December 5, 2023.