The relationship between a grandparent and grandchild can be a truly special one that allows for the sharing of heritage and culture. Sometimes, grandparents can be a little more playful and indulgent than parents, and these relationships make for perfect storybook fodder! Here's to the grandparents in our children's lives.
1. Ojiichan's Gift written by Chieri Uegaki and illustrated by Genevieve Simms
A child and her grandfather's special relationship is the focus of this picture book, and they share lovely visits in the rock and sand garden Ojiichan made in his backyard especially for her. Ever since she was a small child, Mayumi has helped her grandfather keep the garden clean and free of weeds, and she has come to love the serenity found in raking circles around the large rocks. But, as she grows, Ojiichan becomes unable to keep up with his home and garden, and Mayumi feels angry and sad at the impending change that will mean a loss of this special garden for them both. She comes up with an idea that helps them both deal with the changes.2. A Plan for Pops written by Heather Smith and illustrated by Brooke Kerrigan
Little Lou loves spending Saturdays with his grandfathers, Grandad and Pops. They make a fun pair with unique interests and habits, and Lou likes to join each of them in their pursuits. They each teach him different life skills, too, from perseverance at challenging tasks to appreciation for everything silly and fun. But one day, Pops has a bit of a fall and his daily life is changed moving forward. Grandad and Lou work hard to show him their love and bring him back to his old jolly self. A loving relationship between a child and his grandparents is delightful, and the depiction is of a same-sex couple in the familial roles is natural and inclusive.3. Awâsis and the World-Famous Bannock written by Dallas Hunt and illustrated by Amanda Strong
A young child is sent on an errand to deliver special home baked goods, and in her child's playful way, accidentally dropped the whole basket into the water while skipping over a bridge. Her cries are heard by the animals of the forest who offer replacement ingredients to bring home to her grandmother to make a new batch of bannock. She's worried that her grandmother will be angry with her, but Kôhkum is understanding and they work together to make some more. It's a straightforward and simple story for young children to follow, and it's a learning opportunity for parents and children to explore some words from the Cree language. Pronunciation guide and glossary are in the back for adults to consult throughout the reading.4. The Tide written by Clare Helen Welsh and illustrated by Ashling Lindsay
Picture books can be a great resource in helping young children understand the experience of having an aging grandparent struggle with dementia or Alzheimer's. This special book does so in a loving and gentle way, with a simile played out through the story-- "Mommy says Grandpa's memories are like the tide. Sometimes, they're near and full of life. Other times, they're distant and quiet." Helping to make this idea more concrete, much of the story takes place during a day at the beach. The girl compares some of her grandfather's struggles to challenges she has experienced, all with the reassurance that someone is always there to support them both.5. Grandmother's Visit written by Betty Quan and illustrated by Carmen Mok
When Grandmother comes to live with her family, Grace loves to spend time with her, learning how to cook and hearing about her childhood memories. Their shared time is special and precious to both of them, and Grace looks forward to seeing her first every day when she leaves school. But, as time goes by, Grace's grandmother isn't able to do the same things, and after a bit, she dies. Grace is devastated, and her mother finds a loving way for the family to say goodbye. This book may help children dealing with their own loss of a grandparent or grandparent figure, with its gentle tone and emphasis on love and shared experiences.With picture book love,

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