Here’s a very personal selection of titles that celebrate the grands both in more traditional as well as genre-bending ways:
1. Tofu Takes Time
As Lin and her nana, NaiNai, are preparing delicious tofu from scratch, Lin learns all about dedication in the process. Many readers will, of course, resonate with this lyrical, languidly paced story primarily because of its cultural reflections, but the appeal of the book doesn’t end there – in all of its specificity, “Tofu Takes Time” is incredibly universal.
After all, what better way to connect with grandma than through culinary lessons? Grannies all around the world are passing their most treasured, often secret, recipes on to their grandkids in hopes of preserving familial/ national/ regional traditions, at the same time teaching them – through example – about the rewards of delayed gratification. Tofu, as well as many other signature dishes, really does take time!
This picture book in particular celebrates the special bond between Lin and NaiNai in a beautiful way thanks to the often whimsical, imaginative illustrations which depict the entire tofu-making magic with affection and warmth. All of this makes it a real gem – your little ones will love it!
2. Grandad’s Camper
With tender, first-person narration, warm and captivating artwork, the seminal topics of death, memory, grief, and love – this picture book has it all, and more. The story is simple but affecting; a young girl adores visiting Grandad’s cottage, but her absolute favorite thing to do is to curl up on the sofa together and listen to Grandad tell her all about his and her late Grampa’s adventures. That’s how she finds out about their road trips in the eponymous camper and suggests she and Grandad take one together.
This fresh take on a familiar trope – especially its matter-of-factness when it comes to Grandad and Grampa’s relationship – makes for a truly moving portrayal of LGBTQ+ partnerships and families. It is an undoubtedly worthy addition to your and your kiddos’ TBR pile!
3. Nana The Great Comes to Visit
I love how her spirit and spunk permeate the whole book, especially juxtaposed with the more conservative, toned-down personalities of the parents. Complete with very stylish, lighthearted illustrations, this is excellent read-aloud material – there’s just so much you can do with Nana’s character!
4. A Grandma’s Magic
It goes without saying this is a perfect picture book to read to your kiddos once it’s time to say goodbye after grandma’s visit. This beautifully illustrated title will work especially well as a soothing bedtime story, providing gentle reassurance that grandma’s magic never leaves, but stays with every child, always.
5. Hey, Grandude!
One fourth of the legendary The Beatles, Paul McCartney, needs no introduction. How does he fare as a writer though? Well, one thing is for sure – his debut picture book effort doesn’t disappoint! With four likeable sibling protagonists, a magical compass that takes them to unique and exciting places, the magnetic character of eponymous Grandude/ tour guide, and adorable illustrations, it has enough great material to captivate your little ones’ attention. They will be up for a fascinating ride: full of twists and turns, thrilling locations, and narrow escapes.
If it ends up being right up their alley, you can also check out Grandude’s Green Submarine, another picture book in the series with a title The Beatles and play on words-loving parents will surely appreciate!