Growing Up and Growing Older: Books for Young Readers©

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Growing Up and Growing Older:

Books for Young Readers©

An Annotated Booklist of Literature to Promote Positive Aging

(Preschool-Third Grade)

Dr. Sandra L. McGuire

Professor Emeritus

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Director

Kids Are Tomorrow’s Seniors (KATS)

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

About the Author:

Dr. McGuire has presented at conferences and published on aging as portrayed in early children’s

literature for almost 30 years. She has published in journals including: Childhood Education, Journal of

School Nursing, Educational Gerontology, Journal of Health Education; books including: The

Encyclopedia of Ageism and Violence, Neglect and the Elderly; and in the ERIC system. Dr. McGuire is

a co-author of a 6

edition community health nursing text where she contributed information on healthy

aging and working with older adults in the community.

Dr. McGuire is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and formerly Assistant

Dean and Professor (Caylor School of Nursing) at Lincoln Memorial University. She is a Fellow of the

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), serves on the AGHE K-12 Committee and the

AGHE Book Awards Task Force. Dr. McGuire is director of the Kids Are Tomorrow’s Seniors (KATS)

program and served as a member of AARP’s National Policy Council.

About the Booklist:

This booklist started decades ago as an attempt to locate early children’s literature that would help

promote positive attitudes about aging and positive aging. In reviewing this literature it was found that

portrayals of older adults often focused on the negative aspects of aging and mirrored our society’s ageist

attitudes. The booklist contains books that have meaningful, positive portrayals of aging and is available

for free, online at the Lincoln Memorial University Carnegie-Vincent Library (www.library.lmunet.edu).

This booklist is a compilation of carefully selected children’s literature that contains positive, meaningful

portrayals of older adults and promotes positive aging. Positive aging is a relatively contemporary term

that denotes attitudes, lifestyles, and activities that maximize the potentials ad quality of life of life’s later

years. Helping to promote positive aging is important. Children today are expected to live longer than any

other generation of Americans. A child born in the U.S. can expect to live to be 80, 90, or even 100 years

old. Centenarians (people 100 years old and older) are the most rapidly growing segment of the U.S.

population. The attitudes children form about aging will play an important role in how successfully they

age. The images of older people in children’s literature play an important role in attitude formation.

Books on the booklist portray aging as a natural and lifelong process of growing and developing, present

similarities between young and old, show young and old enjoying each other and learning from each

other, view older adults as valuable and contributing members of society, and help children to think about

life’s later years. Books that focus on death, dying, disability, dependency, disease, and dementia are not

included on this list. These topics are not synonymous with aging.

The books can be used to help children see their “elder within”

(the older person they can become), see

the potentials of aging, and think in terms of “lifespan activities” (activities they can do now and can do

as an older person--like reading, writing, art, dance, music, theater, traveling, and athletic activities). They

can stimulate interesting discussions, promote positive attitudes about aging, promote positive aging, help

children learn about growing up and growing older and to start planning for the long life ahead of them.

Have older adults read the books to children as an intergenerational experience. Have children write their

own stories about older adults and what they would like to be as an older adult.

The first part of the booklist presents books-in-print with publisher, reading level, ISBN, and cost. Please

note that publishers and costs of books can change. Many of the books listed are now also available as

eBooks. The listing of books-in-print is followed by: 1) a table of some of my favorite books-in-print,

2) a list of Out-of-Print Stories (OOPS), 3) a table of some of my favorite OOPS, and 4) a table of books

with multicultural content. Books can soon become out-of-print. There are many excellent OOPS that can

be obtained at libraries or through vendors.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

In recent years, books from the extensive Rookie Biographies series (Grades 2-3) have been added to the

booklist. These bibliographies address growing up and growing older and the accomplishments of people

as older adults. They offer the opportunity to talk with children about what they would like to be and do

as an older adult. Selected books from the series are found under the “R” alphabetical listing on the

booklist. Please review the series to find additional books for the young reader.

In 2009, The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) started the AGHE Children’s

Book Award for early children’s literature (Preschool-Grade 5) with meaningful, positive portrayals of

older adults. These awards are presented biannually at the AGHE annual meeting. Books receiving

AGHE awards are: Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock (Bair), The Golden Rule (Cooper), Niwechihaw/I

Help (Nicholson), Ain’t Nobody a Stranger to Me (Grifalconi), Sometimes its Grandmas and Grandpas

and Not Mommies and Daddies (Byrne), Shoebox Sam (Barrett), and Marching With Aunt Susan: Susan

B. Anthony and the Fight for Women’s Suffrage (Murphy). Anyone can nominate books for the award by

contacting AGHE (http://www.aghe.org). The AGHE website also has a listing of selected children’s

books with aging content.

Another resource for early children’s literature with positive aging content is the A is for Aging, B is for

Books website by Lindsey McDivitt (http://www.lindseymcdivitt.com). McDivitt

provides reviews on

children’s books with positive aging content and notes “Positive Aging picture books stay away from

narrow portrayals of older adults and acknowledge the variety of interests, abilities, and talents that do not

melt away with old age, but grow with experience.” McDivitt’s commentaries on this literature are

interesting and informative. Please visit this website.

Some things to do:

 Contact your local schools and libraries to make sure these books are available

 Contact authors and publishers about the need for children’s books that promote positive aging

and positive attitudes about aging

 Purchase and share books with children that promote positive aging

The following is a quote we should all take to heart: “Only as children view their own aging and the

elderly positively will they be able to achieve the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness that are considered

rights of each in our society.”

We have the potential to create a generation of Americans who see the

potentials of old age and value older people. This is a legacy worth leaving.

If you have books you would like considered for the list, or comments about the list, please contact me at

[email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for visiting the booklist.

I would like to acknowledge the continuing support and assistance of Sarah Senter, Lincoln Memorial

University librarian with this booklist.

References:

1. Elder within is a term used by Ken Dychtwald and Joe Fowler in their book Age Wave (1990). New

York: Bantam Books.

2. McDivitt, L. (2015). A is for Aging B is for Books. Retrieved from http://www.lindseymcdivitt.com

3. Jantz, R. K., Seefeldt, C., Galper, A., & Serock, K. (1976). Children’s attitudes toward the elderly.

Final report to the American Association of Retired Persons and the National Retired Teachers

Association. College Park, MD: University of Maryland—Center on Aging and Department of Early

Childhood/Elementary Education.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Growing Up and Growing Older Booklist

__________________________________________________

INDEX:

Introduction pp. 2-3

Growing Up and Growing Older Booklist (In-Print Books) pp. 4-44

In-Print Stories Favorites List pp. 45-49

Out-of-Print Stories (OOPS) List pp. 50-75

OOPS (Out-of-Print Stories) Favorites List pp. 76-77

Multicultural List pp. 78-81

Key:

Books highlighted in Yellow are favorites.

Books with Green are new to this edition of the booklist.

Books with both Green and Yellow are new this year and favorites.

Books-in-Print

Ackerman, Karen (1988/1992). Song and Dance Man

Random House (PS-2) $15.99/$6.99

ISBN 9780394893303/ISBN9780679819950

In the attic grandfather shows the grandchildren a trunk full of mementos from his vaudeville days.

Grandfather sings and dances, they all dress up and put on a show. A good time is had by all. Shares

family history and portrays older people as fun, active, and interesting.

Caldecott Medal Award

Ada, Alma Flor (2002). I Love Saturdays y domingos

Antheneum Books for Young Readers (PS-2) $7.99

ISBN 9780689874093

On Saturdays a young girl visits her Grandma and Grandpa who are European-American. On Sundays,

(los domingos) she visits Abueleto y Abuelita, her grandparents who are Mexican-American. Her

grandparents are different in many ways but have a lot in common, especially the love for their

granddaughter. Intergenerational story of loving and caring. MULTICULTURAL

Addasi, Maha (2010). Time to Pray

Boyds Mills (2-3) $17.95

ISBN 97815907786116

Yasmin is visiting her grandmother, Teta, in the Middle East. She sees the lights from the minaret of a

nearby mosque and hears the voice of the muezzin calling people to pray. Yasmin asks her grandmother

how she would know when to pray once she goes home since they did not have a mosque near.

Grandmother makes Yasmin prayer clothes, buys her a prayer rug, and teaches her the prayers Muslims

do each day. When Yasmin went home her grandmother sent her a miniature mosque that had a prayer

clock and timer to remind her of the times to pray. When the clock goes off, it makes the sound of the

muezzin calling people to prayer. Written in English and Arabic. MULTICULTURAL

Adler, David A. (2010). A Little at a Time

Holiday House (K-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780823417391

A young grandson visits his grandfather in the city and they visit many places. The boy has questions like

“how did this tree get so tall”, and “how did you get to be so smart Grandpa”. Grandpa patiently answers

all of the questions. Each answer ends with the same refrain “a little at a time”.

Anholt, Lawrence (2014). Papa Chagall, Tell Us A Story

Barron’s Educational (2-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780764166440

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Two children visit their grandfather the famed artist, Marc Chagall, at his farm. When they arrive he is

painting in his studio. He shares with his grandchildren stories of his life. He started painting as a child

and continues to paint. His imaginative paintings have things like a pink goat, a green man, purple cows,

and flying people. People loved these paintings and say they made them happy. The children express

they wish they could fly like the people in the paintings. He tells his grandchildren, “In your imagination

and in your paintings and in your dreams you can fly as high as you want”. He shares stories of his life

with them like how he and his wife came to American to escape the war in Europe. Illustrates growing up

and growing older, family history, the lifespan activity of painting, an active grandfather who is still

working, and young and old enjoying and learning from each other.

Anholt, Laurence (2003). The Magical Garden of Claude Monet

Barron’s Educational (2-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780764155741

The story is based on Julie, a daughter of the French painter Berthe Morisot. Julie lives in Paris and longs

to walk in a country garden. Her mother takes her to the garden of a family friend, the great painter

Claude Monet. Monet was working in his garden and took Julie on a garden tour. Monet was an avid

gardener and his gardens can still be visited today. Illustrates both painting and gardening as a lifelong

activities and intergenerational friendship. Portrays older adults as creative, active and capable.

Annino, Jan Godown (2010). She Sang Promise: The Story of Betty Mae Jumper,

Seminole Tribal Leader

National Geographic Society (1-3) $17.95

ISBN 9781426305924

This biography celebrates Betty Mae Jumper, who in 1967 became the first woman to be elected a

Seminole tribal leader. Information about her later life and her service as a nurse, interpreter,

spokesperson, and Seminole tribal leader are presented. Illustrates growing up and growing older and

Seminole life and customs. MULTICULTURAL

Applegate, Katherine (2014). The Buffalo Storm

Clarion (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 97805449217

Hallie’s grandmother, Olympia, can bake a cake, tame a colt, birth a calf, and build a barn. When Hallie’s

parents decide to travel to Oregon by wagon train, Hallie wants to stay behind with her grandmother.

Grandmother tells Hallie she needs to go with her parents, and assures her that she will be with her

wherever she goes. Hallie was afraid of storms and grandmother gave her a quilt to wrap around her if a

storm comes so she wouldn’t be afraid. On the journey Hallie remembers her grandmother’s teachings

and feels her grandmother with her. When they arrive in Oregon Hallie writes to her grandmother about

her new baby sister, and tells her that the baby was named Olympia after her. A wise and caring

grandmother and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Arden, Carolyn (2004). Goose Moon

Boyds Mills (K-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781590780404

A young girl and her grandfather share many happy times together. They go fishing, tobogganing, drink

cocoa, and sing by the fire while grandpa plays the guitar. Grandpa explains the seasons by the coming

and going of the geese. He says that “Goose Moon” will come in the summer. Goose Moon happens

when the moon is full and the geese follow the stars to find their way home. One night grandpa takes the

girl out on the porch and they hear the sound of the geese coming—Goose Moon is on its way. An

active, knowledgeable grandfather and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Aska, Warabe (2006). Tapicero Tap Tap

Tundra (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780887767609

Grandpa is called Tapicero Tap Tap due to the tap tap tap sound of his hammer when he is making

furniture in his shop. Grandpa stops work to tell his grandsons and their friends a story about his

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childhood and the dream he had of traveling across the ocean. He tells them that during his life, he did

not travel, but instead found treasures in the local wine making, fiestas, and bullfights. At fiesta time he

met people from the faraway places that he had dreamed of going to. Active grandfather who is working.

Illustrates growing up and growing older. Helps children see that they can have fulfilling, productive lives

in their own communities and make a difference where ever they are. MULTICULTURAL

Atwell, Debby (2006). The Thanksgiving Door

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt $5.99

ISBN 9780547530031

An immigrant family is preparing for the first Thanksgiving in their restaurant. Everything is almost ready

when two strangers enter the restaurant. Grandmother invites the strangers as guests to dinner.

Baca, Ana (2012). Tia’s Tamales

University of New Mexico (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780826350275

One day there was no school and Luz and her grandmother, Abuelita, spend the day together.

Grandmother shares how the girl’s great-grandfather, Diego, learned to make tamales. Diego was caring

for his ill mother and with the help of his grandmother he learned how to use the resources around him to

gather everything needed to make tamales. Grandmother tells Luz the story, how to make tamales, and

shares the message that “sometimes you have to take what you have and embellish it…sometimes you

have to make something out of nothing.” Text is in English and Spanish. MULTICULTURAL

Bair, Sheila (2006). Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock

Albert Whitman (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780807570944

Grandpa proposed a summer saving plan to his twin grandsons, Rock and Brock. Each Saturday he

would pay each of them to mow his lawn and wash his car. If they saved the dollar he would match it, if

they spent it he wouldn’t. Brock saved his money but Rock didn’t save any. Brock’s money grew and at

the end of the summer he had $512 dollars. Rock and Brock learned the value of saving from their

grandfather. At the end of the book the twins are older and wealthy from their savings. A chart at the end

of the book shows how savings can grow and there is a discussion about how to become a millionaire by

starting saving as a young person. Teaches children about savings and lifelong financial security.

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award 2009

Bancroft, Greg (2013). Betsy’s Day At The Game

Scarletta Kids (2-3) $13.95

ISBN 9781938063015

Betsy’s Grandpa arrived to take her to the baseball game. On the way to the game they talked and

shared the week’s events with each other. Betsy knows the scorekeeping codes and how to keep score

at the game. Grandpa gives her tips for keeping score and they talk about the game as it goes on. As

they leave the game they both agree that they had a great time. When they arrive home Betsy finds out

that her mother had a day at a ballgame with Grandpa when she was a little girl. The book focuses on

baseball and scoring the game. Scorekeeping codes are given at the end of the book. A loving

intergenerational relationship and a knowledgeable grandfather.

Barrett, Mary Bridgid (2011). Shoebox Sam

Zonderkidz (K-3) $9.99

ISBN 9780310424130

Delia and Jesse go to see Shoebox Sam on Saturdays. Shoebox Sam is an older man who lives above

his shop where he shines and repairs shoes. Sam has paying customers for his shoe repairs, but he also

has shoes and new socks he gives to those who need them. Each week the children place the used

shoes in boxes and label them for those in need. He also has coffee, donuts and sometimes sandwiches

for those who are hungry. From Sam the children learn above giving, sharing, caring for others, and a

sense of social responsibility.

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Bastianich, Lidia (2014). Lidia’s Egg-Citing Farm Adventure

Running Press (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780762451265

Grandmother, Nonna Lidia, is having a sleepover with her grandkids. She is a farmer and shares with the

children stories of her childhood on the farm with her grandparents; the children’s great-grandparents. At

the farm she helped to raise chickens and collect eggs. She tells about the homemade, nutritious meals

her grandmother cooked. In the morning the children help her fix breakfast. They prepared vegetables

for the omelet and helped to whisk the eggs. After breakfast they travel to a free range, organic poultry

farm to get more eggs. The children learn about the organic farm, feed the chickens, and collect eggs.

Nonstereotypic illustrations of the grandmother. Active grandmother, family history, intergenerational

learning, farming, and nutritional messages are shared. A loving intergenerational relationship. Recipes

are given at the end of the book that tell how kids can take part in the recipe. The book is dedicated to

the author’s grandmother and applauds all the farmers of the world.

Bastianich, Lidia (2013). Nonna’s Birthday Surprise

Running Press (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780762446551

Nonna Lidia helps her grandchildren prepare a birthday dinner for their great-grandmother, Nonna Mima.

Nonna Lidia tells the children how she helped grow, gather, and prepare food when she was a young girl.

She tells them about her childhood home with the animals and all the fruits and vegetables they grew:

“Each season brought its own special magic of colors, smells, and flavors”. Nonna Lidia takes her

grandchildren to the farmer’s market and teaches them how to cook fresh, seasonal food. They prepare a

meal for Nonna Mima and the entire family sit around the table to eat. The book shares with children how

life was years ago and how the cycle of nature repeats every year. Recipes are shared with instructions

on how children can participate in making the recipe. Nonsterotypic illustrations of the grandmother.

Bates, Janet Costa (2010). Seaside Dream

Lee & Low (1-3) $17.95

ISBN 9781600603471

Tomorrow is grandma’s birthday and the house is full of family and friends to celebrate. Grandma had

come to the United States from the Cape Verde Islands. Cora enjoys her time with Grandma and they

walk along the beach. Grandma is lonely for her homeland and her sister who stayed there. Cora finds a

way to have a birthday present for Grandma that reminds her of her homeland. MULTICULTURAL

New Voices Award

Beaty, Andrea (2013). Rosie Revere, Engineer

Abrams (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781419708459

Rosie dreamed of becoming great engineer and secretly built things. One day Rosie’s great-great-great

Aunt Rose came to visit. Her aunt had worked building airplanes a long time ago. When Rosie makes a

flying gadget that doesn’t work her Aunt tells her: “Your brilliant first flop was a raging success: Come on,

let’s get busy and on to the next…the only true failure can come if you quit”. The Aunt gives Rosie the

confidence to continue with her engineering inventions. The story ends with a historical note that tells

how women from the allied nations worked during World War II for the war effort. The fictional Rosie the

Riveter was one of those women whose slogan was “We can do it!” Capable older adult with a good

message. Few books have a great-great-great relative in them. Can lead into a discussion of longevity

and growing up and growing older.

Berenstain, Stan & Jan (1986). The Berenstain Bears and the Week at Grandma's

Random House (PS-3) $4.99

ISBN 9780394873350

When brother and sister bear find out that they are going to spend a week with their grandparents they

wonder what they will do, then end up having a really wonderful time. Illustrates the similarities between

young and old and young and old enjoying each other.

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Berenstain, Jan & Berenstain, Mike (2013). The Bertenstain Bears: We Love Trucks

HarperCollins (PS-1) $3.99

ISBN 9780062075352

Gramps drives a pickup truck. He and the cubs are on the way to Farmer Ben’s farm to pick up some

fruit. On the way they see many different kind of trucks including delivery vans, fire engine trucks, mail

trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, garbage trucks, moving vans, fuel trucks, and ambulances.

Berne, Jennifer (2013). On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein

Chronicle Books (K-2) $17.99

ISBN 9780818872355

The story of Albert Einstein’s life from boyhood through old age. He was one of the greatest scientists of

all time. “He asked questions never asked before, found answers never found before, and dreamed up

ideas never dreamed before”. As a young man he wrote down his ideas, sent them to science

magazines, and renowned scientists asked him to work with them. He loved his baggy sweater, baggy

pants, favorite blue cup, and playing violin. He said playing violin helped him think better. He discovered

the atom and theories about motion and the speed of light. Einstein especially enjoyed conversations

with young children. The book challenges the children to answer unanswered questions, talks about

Einstein’s work and discoveries, and recommends the Einstein Archives Online (www.alberteinstein.info)

for further information. Inspires children to follow their dreams and ideas, illustrates growing up and

growing older, continued learning and discovery, and a meaningful and productive life.

Biro, Maureen (2002). Walking with Maga

All About Kids (PS-1) $16.95

ISBN 9780970086341

A young girl and her grandmother, Maga, spend many happy hours together. They go walking, talk about

things they like, discover shapes in the clouds that float by, eat ice cream cones, and visit people they

know. They stop by Mr. Anton’s garage and see his shell collection. Illustrates young and old enjoying

each other.

Birtha, Becky (2005). Grandmama’s Pride

Albert Whitman (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780807530283

Every summer a young African American girl and her younger sister visit their grandmother who lives in

the South. During their visits the grandmother shielded the girls from what was happening with

segregation, but without her saying, the older granddaughter begins to understand. Active grandmother

who is wise, caring, and proud of her heritage. Nonstereotypic portrayal of older adult. Presents of

information about the Civil Rights Movement. MULTICULTURAL.

Golden Kite Honors Award

Blackstone, Stella (2005/2006). My Granny Went to Market: Around-the-World

Counting Rhyme

Barefoot (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9781841487922

In this fantasy journey Granny goes to market in Istanbul and buys a flying carpet. She travels around the

world on her carpet buying things and ends up buying 10 llamas. As the llamas are purchased the book

integrates counting from one to ten.

Blackstone, Stella (2007). Abuelita Fue Al Mercado: Un Libro En Rima APara

Contar Por El Mundo

Barefoot (PS-1) $6.99

ISBN 9781846860904

[same book as above in Spanish]

Blomberg, Dianne (1999). Sam and Gram and the First Day of School

American Psychological Association (PS-2) $14.95

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ISBN 9781557985620

It is Gram who walks Sam to school on his first day. Gram tells Sam “I think this is going to be a fun day”.

When Sam returns home from school Gram is there with pretzels and lemonade. Sam and Gram talk

about the first day at school. The back of the book has a “Things to Do” list for parents to help prepare

children to start school. The grandmother is wise, caring, and an active part of the family.

Boyd, Lizi (2009). I Love Grandma

Candlewick (PS-K) $8.99

ISBN 9780763637286

When a little frog goes to stay with Grandma she gets tucked into bed at night. She and grandma visit a

yoga class, go swimming, and play dress up. Book describes a day with Grandma.

Boyd, Lizi (2009). I Love Grandpa

Candlewick (PS-K) $8.99

ISBN 9780763637279

A Grandpa frog and his grandson do many things together like mow the lawn, tidy up tools in the barn,

work on a stone wall, make a grass whistle, go to a diner for lunch, row a boat over to an island, and find

a nest of birds. Grandpa tells the boy stories and they enjoy their time together. Active grandfather and a

loving intergenerational relationship.

Bridges, Shirin (2002). Ruby’s Wish

Chronicle Books (1-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780811834902

A young Chinese girl’s wants to attend the university when she is older. Traditionally, girls have not gone

to the university. Her wish comes to her grandfather’s attention and grandfather makes the wish come

true. Inspired by the life of the author’s grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Brisson, Pat (2010). Wanda’s Roses

Boyds Mills (PS-3) $10.95

ISBN 9781563979255

Wanda is a young girl who lives in the city. One morning on her way to school she noticed a bare, thorny

bush growing in a trash filled lot. She decided the bush was a rosebush that needed care so it could

bloom. Wanda talked to the people in the neighborhood about her bush. Wanda invited all of her

neighbors to a tea party in her “rose garden”. Mrs. Giamoni, her older neighbor, knew that Wanda’s bush

was not a rosebush, but helped her clean up the trash anyway. Her friends did not want her disappointed

and they brought rosebushes to plant at Wanda’s party. Soon the lot became a beautiful rose garden.

Illustrates intergenerational friendship and people working together in their community.

Broyles, Ann (2013). Arturo and the Navidad Birds

Pelican (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9781455618019

Bilingual story in both Spanish and English. Arturo and his grandmother (Abuela) are decorating the

Christmas tree. Abuela has a box full of Christmas ornaments that were gifts from her family and friends

and hold memories of her life. Abuela shares the memories of the ornaments with her grandson as they

decorate the tree and Arturo pictures his grandmother as a young girl. Arturo found a small ornament

with a mouse in a walnut shell and Abuela explained that her mother had made the ornament for her

when she was 4 years old. When the grandson accidentally breaks one of the cherished ornaments the

grandmother shares an important message: "People are more important than things." Illustrates family

history, growing up and growing older, and a warm intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Brumbeau, Jeff (2001). The Quiltmakers Gift

Scholastic (K-3) $18.99

ISBN 9780439309103

A generous quilt maker sews the most beautiful quilts in the world and then gives them away to those in

need. A greedy king wants one of her quilts but the older woman will not give him one because he did

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not need it. She tells the king that when he has given away his riches she will make him a quilt. Children

find it interesting to see how the king finally obtains his quilt. The generosity and kindness of the quilt

maker are good lessons for children. Active and capable older person. Benjamin Franklin Award, ABC

Children’s Booksellers Choice Awards

Bryant, Jen (2005). Georgia’s Bones

Eerdmans, Willliam B. Publishing Company (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 97808080252175

A biographical chronicle of the life of the artist. She grew up on a Wisconsin farm and early in her life

decided to be an artist. Follows her life in Wisconsin, at art school, in New Mexico and the Southwest,

and in New York. Illustrates growing up and growing older and tells the story of a great artist.

Bunting, Eve (2014).Washday

Holiday House (K-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780823428687

Lizzie is going to miss a tea party with her friend Lucy because she is going to Grandma’s house to help

do the wash. They ready the water for the wash, scrub the clothes on a scrub board, use the hand

wringer to wring out the water, and hang the clothes out to dry. At the end of the day Grandma has a

surprise for Lizzie—they have company. Grandma has gingersnaps, Lizzie’s mother has sent over

snickerdoodles, and Lizzie’s father has walked her friend Lucy over for an after washday tea party.

Active, capable grandmother. Children may enjoy having a look back on how things such as “washday”

were done years ago.

Bunting, Eve (2004). A Picnic in October

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (2-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780152050658

A young grandson travels with this parents and grandparents to Ellis Island to celebrate the birthday of

the Statue of Liberty. He learns what the statue means to his grandparents and to so many people.

Bunting, Eve (2009). My Special Day At Third Street School

Boyds Mills Press (K-2) $10.95

ISBN 9781590787454

Amanda Drake is an older woman who is an author. She visits Third Street School where she reads

stories to the children and talks to the children about what it is like to be an author. Ms. Drake loves to

write and the children that writing “doesn’t seem like work if you are loving what you do.” She inspires

the children to write stories. The children love her and at the end of the day they do not want her to

leave. As she leaves on the city bus she waves to the children. A capable, active older adult.

Bunting, Eve (1989). The Wednesday Surprise

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780395547762

Grandma stays with Eve on Wednesday night when Eve’s mom works late and her dad is at basketball

practice with her brother. During their Wednesday times Eve and grandma plan a special surprise for

dad’s birthday. The birthday surprise is that Eve teaches grandma to read. The grandmother is an

integral member of the family. Illustrates lifelong learning and intergenerational sharing and caring.

Busse, Sarah & Martin, Jacqueline Briggs (2006). Banjo Granny

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-1) $9.99

ISBN 9780547528700

Granny takes her banjo and travels to see her new grandbaby, Owen. Granny plays bluegrass music for

Owen. Celebration of a grandmother meeting her grandchild.

Buzzeo, Toni (2014). My Bibi Always Remembers

Hyperion Books (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9781423183853

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Bibi is a grandmother elephant and the protector of the herd. When she calls everyone in the herd

listens. She is Tembo’s grandmother and Tembo wants to learn from her. The story is based on African

elephant life and the role of the older leader of the heard. The book is noted as a celebration of

grandparents.

Byrne, Gayle (2009). Sometimes It’s Grandmas and Grandpas, Not Mommies and

Daddies

Abbeville (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780789210289

A young girl is raised by her grandparents, Nonnie & Poppy and their dog Buddy. Shares the times the

girl has with her grandparents. Hugs and cuddles never run out with Nonnie and Poppy. Grandmother is

working. One of the girl’s teachers is an older adult. Addresses the contemporary issue of grandparents

raising grandchildren and older adults working. Resources are listed at the end of the book for

grandparents raising grandchildren.

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award 2012

Cali, Davide (2007). Piano Piano

Charlesbridge (1-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781580891912

Marcolino’s mom wants him to play the piano, but Marcolino is not interested. Grandpa, Marcolino, and

his mom discuss the situation and, with grandpa’s assistance. Marcolino is able to choose the musical

instrument that he wants to play.

Callahan, Sean (2006). The Bear Hug

Albert Whitman (PS-K) $15.95

ISBN 9780807505960

Cubby bear loves to visit his active grandpa. The best thing about visiting grandpa is the hugs. They go

fishing, swimming, and hunt for food. They look through a photo book of snapshots of grandpa when he

was young. Grandpa teaches Cubby how to growl. Illustrates growing up and growing older and a loving

intergenerational relationship.

Campbell, Nicola (2011). Grandpa’s Girls

Groundwood (K-2) $16.95

ISBN 978154980840

A young girl and her cousins visit grandpa’s farm where they run through the meadows, play in the barn,

feed apples to the horse, and rummage through a room filled with family memories. Grandpa is a

cowboy, a veteran, a rancher, and a businessman; but most of all he is a beloved grandfather. Illustrates

family history and presents childhood memories of the author’s life. A few words are integrated into the

story that are the native language of the Interior Salish peoples. MULTICULTURAL

Carney, Margaret (1997). At Grandpa’s Sugar Bush

Kids Can Press (PS-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781550746416

During spring break from school a young boy enjoys visiting his grandfather and helping with the maple

syrup harvest. They work together tapping the trees, collecting the sap, and making syrup. Grandfather

teaches the boy many things about the forest and syrup making. Grandfather is active, knowledgeable,

and capably works on his farm. Caring intergenerational relationship.

Caseley, Judith (1994). Dear Annie

HarperCollins (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780688135751

Grandpa has been Annie's pen pal since the day she was born. Annie saves his cards and letters and

takes them to share at school for Show-and-Tell. Today letter writing is becoming somewhat of a lost art.

This book introduces children to the value of writing letters, the history that letters can tell, and can

encourage children to become pen pals with an older person. Loving intergenerational relationship.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Castillo, Lauren (2014). Nana in the City

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780544104433

Nana has a new apartment in the city. The grandson goes to stay with Nana, views the city as being full

of scary things, too busy, filled with loud sounds and not a good place for Nana to live. Nana finds the city

wonderful and works to change his view of the city. She knits him a red cape that makes him feel brave

and they go explore the city. They visit Central Park, hear the music of street musicians, and see people

break dancing. He now sees the city differently, finds it extraordinary, and an okay place for grandma to

live and for him to visit. A loving intergenerational relationship and an active, perceptive grandmother.

Chall, Marsha Wilson (2012). A Secret Keeps

Lerner (K-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780761355939

A young boy is driving with his family to the farm to visit his grandparents. His grandpa says that

something is waiting for the boy and it is a secret. When he arrives at the farm grandpa does not tell him

what the secret is, the boy goes in search of it, and finally finds the secret. The farm’s secret is a litter of

kittens and the young grandson now has a kitten of his own. Grandma and grandpa are active.

Chall, Marsha Wilson (2011). Pick a Pup

McElderry (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9781416979616

Looks at the contemporary issue of pet adoption. Sam is going to the animal shelter to pick a pup. Gram

is there to help Sam pick a pup. Sam adopts a puppy.

Churchill, Ginger (2011). Wild Rose’s Weaving

Tanglewood (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9781933718569

Grandma tries to get Wild Rose to learn how to wrap the weaving loom, work the weaving sticks, and

weave; but Wild Rose prefers to do other things. Grandma did her weaving and when Rose returned

from her day she saw the beautiful rug that Grandma had made, “saw life in its colors, and peace in its

pattern”. Grandma tells Rose that a rug is a picture of life. Wild Rose decides she wants to learn to

weave and Grandma teaches her. A wise grandmother who shares knowledge with her granddaughter.

An epilogue to the book tells about how the art of weaving binds us together across the world and

generations; it is about expressing yourself, and is infinitely useful. Gives a website to visit on how to

make a simple loom. MULTICULTURAL

Clark, Katie (2012). Grandma Drove the Lobsterboat

Down East (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781608930043

The continuing stories of grandma and her grandson, Billie. Every year for Labor Day the town has a

Lobster Bake. Grandma is enjoying a day off from running the garbage and snowplowing businesses to

having a leisurely day on the lobster boat with her son and Billie. The boat was filled with lobsters when a

storm came up. Grandma’s son, who is a lobsterman and drives the boat, got seasick, and could not get

the boat back into town. Grandma rescued the day and drove the lobster boat into the town’s port for the

annual Lobster Bake. Grandma is working, energetic, and capable.

Clark, Katie (2010). Grandma Drove the Snowplow

Down East (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780892728510

Grandma runs a snowplow business and her sons plow the town’s roads in the winter. When a blizzard

threatens to cancel the town’s annual Carol Sing, Grandma and her grandson Billy clear the snow away

to the church so the sing can go on. A grandmother who is working and active.

Clark, Katie (2006) Grandma Drove the Garbage Truck

Down East (PS-3) $15.95

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

ISBN 9780892726981

Grandma runs the town’s garbage business and her sons drive the trucks. One 4

of July her sons are

too sick to drive and the trash needs to be picked up. With the help of Billie, her young grandson,

grandma takes over. Grandma and Billie have a few mishaps, but succeed in picking up all the trash.

The truck ends up winning “Most Creative Float” in the 4

of July parade from the decorations picked up

during the mishaps. Grandmother is working.

Clark, Mary Higgins (2011). A The Magical Christmas Horse

Simon & Shuster (K-3) $17.99

ISBN 9781416994787

Johnny’s family lives in Arizona. Johnny wanted to return to the big stone house where his father had

grown up in Connecticut. He remembered visiting his father’s boyhood home when he was 3 years old

and riding on the wooden house that his great-grandfather had carved. The family is going to visit the

house at Christmas and Johnny is thinking about how much his younger brother, Liam, will enjoy the

horse. During the visit Johnny spends enjoyable time with his grandfather. He explores the attic and

finds many interesting things, including the horse; but it is in need of much repair. Grandfather fixes the

horse and has it ready for Liam at Christmas. Illustrates family history. Capable, active grandfather.

Cocco-Leffler, Maryann (2001). Edgar Degas: Paintings That Dance

Grosset & Dunlap (2-4). $5.99

ISBN 9780448425207

Part of the Smart About Art bibliography series. Books in this series are written in the style of a child’

book report. Tells the story of the painter’s life from childhood to late adulthood. Many of his friends were

painters such as Monet, Cezanne, Cassatt, and Vincent Van Gogh. Edgar worked as an artist all his life

and painted into old age. Illustrates growing up and growing older and a productive old age.

Compestine, Ying Chang (2011). Crouching Tiger

Candlewick Press (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780763646424

Grandpa was coming to visit from China and Vinson wants him to teach him kung fu. Grandpa calls

Vinson by his Chinese name of Ming Da. Vinson is disappointed that he only sees Grandpa doing tai chi.

and not doing kung fu. At the New Year’s Parade, Vinson finds that Grandpa is actually a master of kung

fu. Grandpa shares with him that there is a process to learning kung fu that included tai chi, self-

discipline, and serious commitment over many years. The book includes some illustrations of tai chi

poses, a brief discussion of martial arts, and the belief that in order to achieve outer strength, one most

first gain inner stillness. MULTICULTURAL

Cooney, Barbara (1985). Miss Rumphius

Penguin (K-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780140505399

A classic and must read book. Tells the story of a little girl, Alice. Alice helped her grandfather who was

an artist. Alice told her grandfather that when she grew up she wanted to go to faraway places and live

beside the sea. Her grandfather said that there was one more thing she must do: "You must do

something to make the world more beautiful". Alice grows up, becoming Miss Rumphius, and readily

accomplishes the first two goals. How she accomplished the third makes the story interesting and

heartwarming. At the end of the book Miss Rumphius is an older woman who shares her grandfather's

message with young children. Illustrates growing up and growing older, aging as a natural and lifelong

process, older people as active members of their communities, and planning for later life.

American Book Award

Cooper, Ilene (2007). The Golden Rule

Abrams (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780810909601

A grandfather helps a young grandson understand the Golden Rule across different cultures and

religions. He helps him to see that it means imagining how other people feel, treating people the way you

would like to be treated, and explains that it is a valuable way of living. Grandfather helps the boy to see

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

how to practice the rule and how things would change if everyone lived by the Golden Rule. Wise

grandfather who teaches an excellent lesson to his grandson.

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award 2009

Cossons, Malcolm (2013). Dot to Dot

Thames & Hudson (K-1) $15.95

ISBN 9780500650158

Dot has a grandmother with the same name and they share the same birthday. Dot lives in London and

Grandma lives in New York City. The book tells about how Grandma Dot arranges to see Dot on their

shared birthday.

Cowley, Joy (2004). Big Moon Tortilla

Boyds Mills (K-3) $9.95

ISBN 9781590780374

Story is set in one of the small villages on a Papago reservation in southern Arizona. Marta Enos, a

Native American girl, is having a bad day and grandmother helps to make it better. Grandmother has

some good advice for her granddaughter and sings a healing song for her. MULTICULTURAL

Cox, Judy (2003). My Family Plays Music

Holiday House (K-3) $17.95

ISBN 9780823415915

A young girls family all love music and play musical instruments. Grandma plays music in a bluegrass

band. Grandpa plays tuba in a polka band and dresses in lederhosen and a hat with a feather. Great-

grandmother plays the pipe organ in St. Peter’s Cathedral. Illustrates music as a lifelong activity.

MULTICULTURAL

Crews, Donald (1998). Bigmama's

HarperCollins (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780688158422

Crews tells the story of his childhood visits to his grandmother "Bigmama”. Every summer this African

American family traveled to see grandparents and relatives in the country. These visits were greatly

enjoyed. This is a beautifully illustrated story of family relations, activities and treasured memories. The

grandparents are valued, loved, and contributing members of the family. MULTICULTURAL

Crum, Shutta (2004). My Mountain Song

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780618159703

Brenda Gail enjoys her visits to her great-grandfather, Gran Pop, and great-grandmother, Big Ma. While

she and Gran Pop are collecting eggs she asks him what song he is singing and he tells her it is a

mountain song. He tells her that everybody born in the mountains has a mountain song in them. Active

great-grandparents who show understanding, kindness, and sensitivity. Few books have a great-

grandparent as a major character. MULTICULTURAL

Crystal, Billy (2008). I Already Know I Love You

HarperCollins (PS-2) $7.99

ISBN 9780061450570

Actor and comedian Billy Crystal tells a story of all the things he plans to do with his grandchild before the

child is born. Portrays loving relationship between grandparent and grandchild.

Cunnane, Kelly (2006). For You Are a Kenyan Child

Antheneum (PS-2) $17.99

ISBN 9780689861949

This is a story about the day in the life of a Kenyan child. There is a glossary of Swahili words and these

words are used throughout the text. A young boy has many departures as he goes to take his

grandfather’s cows to pasture. He meets his grandmother who offers him milk and reminds him to tend to

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

the cows. When the boy finally gets to the cows his grandfather is already there tending them and the

two go home together. Older adults are not main characters but are integrated in the story. Older adults

are seen as productive members of the community. Kenyan life is depicted. MULTICULTURAL

de Anda, Diane (2013). The Patchwork Garden/Pedacitos de huerto

Pinata (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 978155857636

The story is written in both English and Spanish. Tona’s grandmother, Abuela, planted her own garden

when she was a girl. She helps Tona find a patch of land in the city to plant a garden. As Abuela and

Tona plant they wear hats to protect them from the sun. Others children admire the garden and Tona and

Abuela help to them find patches of land to plant. Tona starts the Patchwork Garden Club and all across

the neighborhood there are now gardens. Vegetables from the gardens are shared with others. Presents

the value of urban gardening. Capable and knowledgeable grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

de la Pena, Matt (2015). Last Stop on Market Street

Penguin (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780399257742

On Sundays after church CJ and Nana ride the bus across town to Market Street. As they ride the bus

they meet interesting people including the bus driver, a man who is blind, and a guitar player. On their

trip Nana helps him to see the beauty in the world and people around him. Nana encourages CJ to listen

to the guitar music. The music gave CJ a “feeling of magic” in the world around him. The last stop on

Market Street is in an area of town where the Soup Kitchen is. Nana and CJ volunteer at the Soup

Kitchen. Active, caring older adult with good messages for her grandson. Older adults as volunteers.

Delgado, Maria (1996). Chave’s Memories

Arte Publico Press (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781558850842

This is a bilingual book written in English and Spanish. Chave is a young Mexican American girl who

loves visiting her grandparent’s ranch in Mexico. Her grandparents maintain the ranch and grandma has

a garden. Although there is little interaction with the grandparents in the book the story illustrates active,

independent, older people who are a respected and integral part of the family. MULTICULTURAL

De Paola, Tomie (1978/1990). Pancakes for Breakfast

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-K) $6.99

ISBN 9780156707688

An older women attempts to have pancakes for breakfast and is hindered by a scarcity of supplies and

her pets. There are no words in this story. Young readers can easily follow the pictures, and can help to

make up the story. The pictures portray the older woman as active, flexible, and resourceful.

Derby, Sally (2015). Sunday Shopping

Lee (1-3) $17.95

ISBN 9781600604386

Every Sunday Evie and Grandma get ready for their weekly shopping spree. This unusual shopping spree

involves “imaginary” buying of items for sale in the newspaper. They have an amount of “imaginary”

money to spend and begin selecting the items they would like. A family tradition is presented as well as

the idea for this kind of shopping adventure with children. Nonstereotypic illustrations of the grandmother

Dixon, Dougal (1998). Clams all Year

Random House (PS-2) $12.95

ISBN 9780440414476

All the cousins gather together for summer vacation at grandpa’s house at the seashore. At sunrise

grandpa wakes the kids to go clam digging. He teaches them how to find clams with their feet, that when

you see bubbles in the sand you dig for clams, and how to clean clams. They have fun and find enough

clams for many dinners.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Dorros, Arthur (2014). Abuelo

HarperCollins (K-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780061686276

Abuelo is the young boy’s grandfather. They ride everywhere on their horses. Abuelo showed him how

to guide his horse, protect himself from the rain, protect himself from a mountain lion, and watch the stars

at night. Abuelo was a great teacher. When he boy’s family moves to the city he is worried Abuelo might

be lost to him, but the memories of Abuelo and what he had taught him, his laugh, and his voice were not

lost. These memories help him to adjust to his new home. Text is bilingual with Spanish words included.

A loving intergenerational relationship and an active, capable grandfather. MULTICULTURAL

Dorros, Arthur (1997). Abuela

Puffin (PS-2) $7.99

ISBN 9780140562255

Abuela means grandmother in Spanish and Spanish words are integrated throughout the text. While

taking a bus ride with her grandmother a young Hispanic girl imagines that she and her grandmother are

taken up to the sky to see the sights of New York City. Uses bright, colorful illustrations. Shows old and

young enjoying each other. MULTICULTURAL

England, Kathryn (2007). Grandfather’s Wrinkles

Flashlight Press (K-3) $13.95

ISBN 9780972922593

Lucy says that grandpa’s skin is “crinkly”. Grandpa explains that he has lived a long time and that those

crinkles are actually wrinkles, and that each was made by a big smile. Grandpa tells her the stories

behind his wrinkles, like when he got married, when Lucy’s mom was born, and when Lucy’s mom was

married. The two biggest wrinkles are from the smiles when Lucy was born. The last page of the book

shows pictures of grandpa from when he was a young man until today. Shows growing up and growing

older and gives an interesting account of how wrinkles are made.

Falwell, Cathryn (2013). Rainbow Stew

Lee & Low (PS-1) $17.95

ISBN 9781600608476

Written in rhyming verse. The grandchildren are visiting Grandpa and he is making pancakes for

breakfast. They love to visit grandpa. He lets them run and jump and play outside. This day is rainy and

the children are wondering what they will do. Grandpa has them go to his garden and gather vegetables

for “rainbow stew”. They bundle up in rain clothes and go pick the rainbow colored vegetables in

Grandpa’s garden. Grandpa gets them back to the house and into dry clothes. He supervises as they

cut up the vegetables and cook the stew. A recipe for the stew is given at the end of the book.

Nonstereotypic portrayal of an independent, capable grandfather. MULTICULTURAL

Fleischman, Paul (2013). The Matchbox Diary

Candlewick (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780763646011

A young girl is visiting her great-grandfather who emigrated as a young boy from Italy. As a boy the

great-grandfather could not read or write and so he used matchboxes to keep a diary of his life. A

memento in each matchbox tells a story of part of his life and his family history. Later in life great-

grandfather was able to go to school and have his own businesses. He is pleased that the young

granddaughter is a “lucky” girl who is already able to be in school. Few stories have a great-grandparent

in them. Illustrates past events in history, family history, and a warm and loving intergenerational

relationship. MULTICULTURAL

A Junior Library Guild Selection

Flett, Julie (2013). Wild Berries/Pikaci-Minisa

Simply Read (PS-K) $16.95

ISBN 9781897476895

Written in English with selected words in Cree. A separate version of the book is available in the dialect

of Cree known as Swampy Cree. When Clarence was little his grandma carried him on her back as she

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

went through the woods picking berries. Now Clarence walks through the woods with her to collect

berries. As they walk he learns from his grandma. Each page describes the sights and sound they

experience in the woods and also highlights some Cree words. A Cree pronunciation guide and glossary

are appended. MULTICULTURAL

Flood, Nancy Bo. (2014). The Hogan That Great-Grandfather Built

Boyds Mills (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781893354975

Tells the story of the family home, a Hogan. Great-Grandfather builtthe home and the multigenerational

family of grandmother, grandfather, children and grandchildren still lives in the hogan. Navajo tradition,

family history, and intergenerational learning are presented. Tells the story of the meaning of the Hogan

in Navajo culture. MUTICULTURAL

Flournoy, Valerie (1985). The Patchwork Quilt

Dial (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780803700970

Tanya is a young African America girl. She loved listening to her grandmother talk to her about the

patchwork quilt she was putting together. When grandmother gets temporarily ill Tanya decides to finish

the quilt and the whole family works together to finish the quilt for grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Coretta Scott King Award, Christopher Book Award

Fry, Stella (2012). Grandpa’s Garden

Barefoot Books (PS-2) $7.99

ISBN 97818468680927

Billie is planting a vegetable garden with his grandpa for the first time. Billie wants things to grow fast but

Grandpa knows that things the garden cannot be rushed and Billie will need to be patient. Grandpa is an

expert gardener who teaches Billie about the garden and shares environmental gardening tips with him.

Billie does not like the slugs, snails, and aphids he finds in the garden. Grandpa explains how everything

has a role in the garden, how some things protect the garden, and how the garden grows. They use

compost from Grandpa’s compost heap to feed the vegetables. An enjoyable intergenerational activity

and an active grandfather.

Garland, Michael (2011). Grandpa’s Tractor

Boyds Mills (K-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781590787625

Grandpa Joe takes his grandson Timmy to the farm where he lived as a boy. The farm was sold long ago

and many houses are now where the farm had been. When they arrived the farm house was boarded up

and the barn was falling down. Grandpa said that years ago the house was beautiful and there were

open fields for planting and pastures for cows. As they walked past the old barn they found grandpa’s

boyhood tractor. It was rusted now and not working, but grandpa talked about how important the tractor

was to the farm. Family history, the importance of farms, and the history of the farm tractor are

discussed.

Gilman, Phoebe (1993). Something From Nothing

Scholastic (K-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780590472807

The story is an adaptation of a Jewish folktale. When Joseph was born his grandfather, who is a tailor,

made him a blanket. The blanket has a long and delightful history. As Joseph grows older it becomes

worn and frazzled and his mother wants to throw it out, but Joseph says “grandpa can fix it”. Grandpa

makes the blanket into a jacket for Joseph. As the years go by the jacket becomes too small so grandpa

makes it into a vest. Later the vest is transformed by grandpa into a Sabbath tie, then a handkerchief,

and finally a button. The button is lost and now there is nothing left of the blanket. Joseph makes

“something from nothing” by writing a story about the blanket. Grandfather is independent, working,

creative, and an integral part of the family and community. MULTICULTURAL

Sydney Taylor Book Award, Ruth Schwartz Children’s Book Award

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Glaser, Linda (1997/2004). The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkes

Albert Whitman (1-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780807508428

On the first night of the Jewish Hanukkah celebration there are only three potatoes left and more potatoes

are needed to make latkes. Rachel decides to borrow potatoes from her elderly neighbor, Mrs.

Greenburg. She invites Mrs. Greenburg participate in the family’s Hanukkah celebration. Illustrates

intergenerational friendship, caring and sharing. MULTICULTURAL

Gray, Libba Moore (1998). Miss Tizzy

Aladdin (PS-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780689818974

Miss Tizzy is loved by all the children in the neighborhood. They love her and her colorful house and

clothes. She bakes with them, lets them pick flowers, puts on puppet shows, plays her bagpipes, leads

them in parades, plays dress-up, roller skates and sings songs. Everyone wants to be like Miss Tizzy

when they are older. Illustrates intergenerational friendship and older people as active and valued

members of their communities. MULTICULTURAL

Greenfield, Eloise (1996). Grandpa's Face

Penguin (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780698113817

Tamika is a young African American girl who loves her grandfather very much. She especially enjoys

spending time with him and loves his stories and their long "talk-walks". One day Tamika sees her

grandfather practicing a mean face for a play. She learns that, despite her grandfather's many faces, his

feelings for her will never change, and his love is something that she can always depend on. Illustrates

shared emotions, depicts the grandfather as active and vibrant, and illustrates a loving, caring relationship

between grandchild and grandparent. MULTICULTURAL

Guback, Georgia (1994). Luka’s Quilt

HarperCollins (PS-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780688121549

Luka is Hawaiian. Her grandmother “tutu” makes a quilt for her. Luka has envisioned a quilt of many

bright colors and is disappointed when the quilt only has green and white colors in it. When Luka and tutu

attend a Lei Day celebration Luka begins to appreciate the traditional Hawaiian quilt design and her

grandmother comes up with a way to add bright colors to Luka’s quilt. An intergenerational story

interlaced with culture and tradition. MULTICULTURAL

Handy, Femida & Carpenter, Carole (2010). Sandy’s Incredible Shrinking Footprint

Second Story Press (2-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781897187692

This book conveys meaningful environmental messages. The beach by grandpa’s house is Sandy’s and

Grandpa’s favorite place. Grandpa taught her about the beach, its environment, and showed her

footprints made by the different birds. On the beach Sandy finds garbage left from a bonfire. She picked

up the garbage that could be recycled and put trash that could not be recycled in another bag. At the

beach there is older lady who picks up garbage and works to keep the beach clean. She tells Sandy that

she should think about the footprint she is leaving on the world, and that all kinds of little choices can

make her footprint smaller—like recycling a soda can. Sandy learns that she can shrink her footprint on

the earth by reusing things and recycling. At the end of the book environmentally sound ways are given

to help people see how they can shrink the footprints they leave on the earth.

Henderson, Kathy (2008). And The Good Brown Earth

Candlewick (PS-2) $6.99

ISBN 9780763638412

Joe and his Gram are great friends. Gram has a vegetable patch that they tend together. Gram shares

environmental messages as she teaches Joe the seasons of the garden. As the seasons go by the good

brown earth does its job for the garden to grow. Depending on the season they may be planting, putting

up a scarecrow to protect the plants, weeding, watering, or harvesting. Joe enjoyed seeing the plants

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come up. Intergenerational learning. Gram is independent, active, and knowledgeable.

Henkes, Kevin (2008). Old Bear

HarperCollins (PS-1) $17.99

ISBN 9780061552052

Old Bear is sleeping for the winter. He is dreaming about when he was a cub and all of the beautiful

things in the world. When he awakes he pokes his head out of his den and goes out into a beautiful

spring day.

Henkes, Kevin (1995). Good-bye, Curtis

HarperCollins (PS-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780688128272

Curtis has been delivering mail for 42 years. He is retiring and today is his last day at work. All along his

mail route the mailboxes are filled with surprises. Everyone loves Curtis, and at the last house on his

route they have a party for him. Illustrates an older person as a worker and opens up a discussion about

work, retirement, and preparing for retirement.

Herman, Charlotte (2010). First Rain

Albert Whitman (2-3) $6.99

ISBN 9781497649385

It was raining when Abby and her parents moved to Israel. When they arrive in Israel it is summertime

and will not rain for a long time. Abby is sad that her grandma did not move with them. To keep in touch

Grandma and Abby send letters to each other, talk to each other on the phone, and send e-mails. Abby

tells Grandma she is learning Hebrew, went on a “tiyul”—a hike, visited the “suk”—a marketplace, and

took a trip to the Dead Sea. Abby remembers how she and Grandma used to play on rainy days and she

looks forward to the first rain of autumn in Israel. When the first rain comes Grandma surprises Abby with

a visit. Portrays the contemporary issue of grandparents living at a distance from grandchildren. The

grandmother is an integral part of the girl’s life. MULTICULTURAL

Herman, Charlotte (2014). The Memory Cupboard: A Thanksgiving Story

Albert Whitman (1-4) $6.99

ISBN 9781497651883

Katie’s family gathers at Grandma’s for Thanksgiving. On the wall in the kitchen Grandma has all the

letters and drawings Katie sent her. When clearing the table Katie accidentally broke Grandma’s antique

gravy boat. Katie was in tears, but Grandma tells Katie that “people are more important than things”. She

takes Katie’s hand and shows her a “memory” cupboard filled with old broken teapots, mugs, cookie jars,

toys, and clocks. Every object in the cupboard had “a story to tell” and Grandma shared the family

memories with Katie. The letters that Katie wrote to her Grandmother can lead into a discussion of pen

pals and letter writing. The memory cupboard stories are examples of family history. A Grandma has a

good message for her granddaughter and a loving intergenerational relationship is portrayed.

Hest, Amy (1992). The Purple Coat

Aladdin (K-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780689716348

Every autumn Gabrielle and her mother take the train to New York to Grandpa’s tailor shop for Grandpa

to make Gabrielle a new navy blue coat with gold buttons. This year Gabrielle wants a purple coat, but

her mother wants her to have a blue one. Grandfather ingeniously solves the problem by making a

reversible coat. He tells Gabrielle and her mother that "sometimes it is good to try something new".

Shows an older adult who is working, creative, and caring. Christopher Book Award

Hest, Amy (2004). Guess Who, Baby Duck!

Candlewick (PS-K) $15.99

ISBN 9780763619817

Grandpa comes to visit baby duck with a surprise. The surprise is a picture book of baby duck on the day

he was born. Leads into a discussion of growing up and growing older.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Hest, Amy (2007). Mr. George Baker

Candlewick (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780763633080

Mr. George Baker is a musician who is 100 years old. Neighbors come by to listen to him play the drums.

He and Harry are special friends who sit together on Mr. Baker’s porch while they wait for the school bus

each morning. George calls out to Harry as he runs across the lawn to wait for the bus. While they are

waiting on the porch Mrs. Baker comes out to greet them and she and Mr. Baker dance. The bus comes

and everyone on the bus wants George but every day he sits with Harry. Mr. Baker and other adults on

the busy are learning to read at school, and Harry is learning too. Lifelong learning, intergenerational

friendship, and a person who is a centenarian. Many of today’s children will live to be centenarians and

this can lead to a discussion of growing up and growing older. MULTICULTURAL

Hest, Amy (2013). When Charley Met Grampa

Candlewick (PS-K) $15.99

ISBN 9780763653149

Henry and grampa write letters back and forth and Grampa is coming by train for a visit. Henry wants

grandpa to meet his new puppy, Charley. Grampa is a little leery and says “I’ve never been friends with a

dog before”. It is windy and snowy when grampa’s train arrives and his hat blows off. Charley brings

grampa’s hat back to him, he and grandpa become friend. An active older adult, the somewhat lost art of

letter writing is part of the story, and travel by train which is part of our country’s history is presented. Can

bring up a discussion about being a pen pal with an older person.

High, Linda (2004). Beekeepers

Boyds Mills (1-4) $12.95

ISBN 9781590780466

Grandfather is a beekeeper and a young granddaughter helps him tend his beehives. They enjoy

working together. Intergenerational activities and an active Grandfather is.

Hoffman, Mary (1991). Amazing Grace

Dial/Penguin (PS-3) $18.99

ISBN 9780803710405

Grace is a young African American girl who loves acting. Her class at school plans to do the play Peter

Pan and Grace wants to try out for the title role. Some of her classmates discourage her, but with the

support and encouragement of her grandmother, Grace auditions for the part and everyone in the class

votes for her. This book portrays the grandmother as capable, sensitive, and an integral part of the

family. It shows old and young enjoying each other and learning from each other. MULTICULTURAL

Waldenbooks Best Children's Book Award

Holt, Kimberly Willis (2010). The Adventure of Granny Clearwater and Little Critter

Henry Holt (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780805078992

A fantasy journey about the Clearwater family moving out West. Little Critter and Granny ride in the back

of the covered wagon, the wagon jolts, and both get thrown off. They had to walk across the hot, dry

prairie to find their way back to the family. On the journey they fish, cross a mountain, catch a thief, ride

in a stagecoach, deliver mail on Pony Express, pan for gold, and Granny did a rain dance to make it ran.

They finally are reunited with the family—all under granny’s guidance.

Homan, Lynn & Reilly, Thomas (2002). The Tuskegee Airmen Story

Pelican (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9781589800052

The grandkids find Granddad’s WWII uniforms, his leather flight helmet and medals. Grandma tells them

that Granddad was a Tuskegee Airman. Granddad tells his grandchildren about his role with the

Tuskegee Airmen, an elite squadron of African-American pilots that flew over 1,500 missions during

WWII. Family history is presented and the story introduces children to an important part of our countries

history. MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Horrocks, Anita (2010). Silas’ Seven Grandparents

Orca Book Publishers (K-2) $19.95

ISBN 9781551435619

Silas has seven grandparents that he loves and who love him. When his parents go away on a business

trip all of his grandparents invite Silas to stay with them. Silas does not want to say “no” to any of them,

he invites all of his grandparents to come to his house, and all seven came to take care of Silas.

Addresses a contemporary issue of having multiple sets of grandparents and step-grandparents.

Houston, Gloria (1997). My Great-Aunt Arizona

HarperCollins (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780060226060

The story is about the author’s Great-Aunt Arizona who was born in a log cabin. As a young girl she liked

to grow flowers, sing, and dance to fiddle music; but what she liked most of all is too read. She dreamed

of going to faraway places but instead stayed in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She became a teacher and

taught for 57 years. At the end of the story Arizona is an older woman and is she still teaching. She is

fondly remembered by generations of people in her community. Illustrates growing up and growing older,

older adults working, and people making a difference in their communities.

Howard, Elizabeth (1995). Aunt Flossie’s Hats (and Crab Cakes Later)

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $7.95

ISBN 9780395720776

On Sunday afternoons Sarah and Susan, two young African American sisters, go to see Great-Great

Aunt Flossie. Aunt Flossie greets them at the door and offers them tea, cookies, and crab cakes later.

They love Aunt Flossie, her house, and especially her hats. Aunt Flossie tells the girls the stories about

her hats. MULTICULTURAL

Hutchins, Pat (1992). You’ll Soon Grow Into Them Titch

HarperCollins (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780688115074

Titch receives hand-me-down clothes from his brother and sister. The clothes are usually too big for him

and they tell him that he will grow into them soon. One day Titch’s mother buys him new clothes. When

he outgrows them he is able to hand them down to someone else. Although there are no older

characters in the book, but the book illustrates growing up and growing older. Children can talk about

things they have outgrown and how they are growing.

Isadora, Rachel (2009). Happy Belly, Happy Smile

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780547544786

Every Friday night Louie goes to the Chinese restaurant his grandpa owns in Chinatown and has dinner

with his grandpa. The visit is always enjoyable. Grandfather is active and working. MULTICULTURAL

Jeffers, Dawn (2006). Vegetable Dreams/Huerto Sonado

Raven Tree Press (K-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780974199290

The book is written in both English and Spanish. Erin wants a garden, but her parents are reluctant to let

her have one. Her older neighbor, Mr. Martinez, agrees to give her part of his garden to plant her

vegetables. Erin and Mr. Martinez plant and tend the garden. Erin loved to work the garden, but she

loved her talks and friendship with Mr. Martinez even more. Erin enjoyed the magic of the friendship

found in the garden. Illustrates intergenerational friendship, old and young enjoying each other, and

learning from each other. MULTICULTURAL

Johnston, Tony (2009). My Abuelita

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 978052163303

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

The story has some Spanish words. A grandson lives with his active grandmother, Abuelita. Abuelita

wakes up every morning with the sun, does exercises with her grandson, prepares breakfast, sings, and

goes to work as a storyteller. Some drawings and descriptions are stereotypic a: “face as crinkled as a

dry chile, hair is the color of salt”. However, the book does address the contemporary issue of

grandparents raising grandchildren. Grandmother is portrayed as active and capable. MULTICULTURAL

Joosse, Barbara (2010). Sleepover at Gramma’s House

Penguin (PS-1) $17.99

ISBN 9780152065461

A grandmother elephant and her granddaughter enjoy the granddaughter’s overnight stays. The love

each other and have many activities that they do.

Juster, Norton (2005). The Hello, Goodbye Window

Disney-Hyperion (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780786809141

Nanna and Poppy live in a big house in the middle of town. In the front of their house is a kitchen window,

the “Hello, Goodbye Window”. Nanna and Poppy wave hello from the window when you come and wave

goodbye and blow kisses to you when you leave. It is a special window where you can play peek-a-boo,

make silly faces, and get a lot of hellos before you go inside. Shares the fun things the grandchild does

with Nanna and Poppy, like riding a bike and Poppy playing the harmonica. When the grandchild grows

up she wants to have a “Hello, Goodbye Window”. Active grandparents and a loving family tradition.

Caldecott Medal Winner, Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor, New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s

Book

Karon, Jan (2001). Miss Fannies Hat

Penguin (PS-2) $6.99

ISBN 9780140568127

Miss Fannie is 99 years old and lives with her daughter, Miss Wanda. She enjoys reading her Bible,

going to church, and her hats. Her favorite hat is a pink straw with silk roses and she has worn the hat to

church every Easter Sunday for 35 years. When the minister asks her to donate a hat for the Easter

auction, she donates her favorite hat. With the money earned from Miss Fannie’s hat the church planted

beds of pink roses. “Now when people pass the little white church, they think they’re seeing a garden of

dazzling pink roses. But what they’re really seeing is Miss Fannie’s hat, and it will always be her favorite.”

Not many books have an older character who is 99 years old and active in their community. A good book

to use in talking to children about how many of them will live to be as old as Miss Fannie and what they

want to be and do as an older person.

Kinch, Devon (2010). Pretty Penny Sets Up Shop

Random House (PS-2) $3.99

ISBN 9780375867354

Pretty Penny has very big ideas for someone so small—like the time she wrote her first novel and had a

puppy dog fashion show. Every summer Penny stays with her grandma who is an artist. Grandma owns

the big yellow building she lives in, lives on the parlor floor, and rents out three apartments. The very top

floor is the attic where Grandma keeps all of her extra stuff. Her attic is full of treasures and they “set up

shop” and have an attic sale.

Kirk, Connie (2004). Sky Dancers

Lee & Low (1-3) $17.95

ISBN 9781584301622

An American Indian boy, John Cloud, lives with his parents and grandfather. His grandfather was a

steelworker who used to build skyscrapers in New York City and his father is a steelworker now. John,

his mother, and grandfather took the train to New York City where his father worked. Grandfather

explained things along the way on the train. MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Lainez, Rene (2005). Playing loteria/El juegode la loteria

Cooper Square Publishing (K-3) $15.95/$6.95

ISBN 9780873588812/ISBN9780873589192

This text is written in both English and Spanish. A young girl goes to visit her grandma “Abuela”. The girl

speaks English and the grandma speaks Spanish. Grandma makes a deal where she will teach the

granddaughter Spanish and the granddaughter will teach her English. Every day they practice their

phrases together. Active grandma who cooks and has a loteria stand where she works. A loving

intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Laminack, Lester (2004). Saturdays and Teacakes

Peachtree (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781561453030

Every Saturday morning a young boy rides his bike to visit his grandmother and Mammaw is waiting for

him on the front porch glider. Mammaw works in the garden, grandson mows the yard, and they make

teacakes together. A warm intergenerational relationship. Shows young and older enjoying each other

and learning from each other. A capable and caring grandmother.

Laminack, Lester (2008). Jake’s 100

Day of School

Peachtree (K-3) $8.95

ISBN 9781561454631

Jake’s class is celebrating the 100

day of school by bringing in collections of 100 things. Grandma

Maggie and his teacher have planned a surprise for the class that day. Grandma Maggie brings her Aunt

Lula to class. Aunt Lula is 100 years old. Aunt Lula and grandma help the class make a snack. Few

books have a centenarian portrayed. Older adults are portrayed as active and independent. Leads into a

discussion of growing up and growing older and the fact that many children will live to be centenarians.

Lanton, Sandy (2014). The Littlest Levine

Kar-Ben (PS-2) $17.95

ISBN 9780761390459

Hannah did not like being the littlest Levine but Grandpa helps to make her see that someday she might

change her mind. Jewish holidays such as Sukkot and Passover are portrayed. Grandparents are active

members of the family. Grandpa teaches her to speak Hebrew. The seder is a festive meal to celebrate

Passover. Thanks to the teachings of her Grandpa Hannah, the littlest Levine, recites in Hebrew at the

family’s seder. Information at the end of the book explains the Passover holiday. MULTICULTURAL

Larson, Debra Jo (2012). One Frozen Lake

Minnesota Historical Society Press (PS-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780873518666

The book is written in verse and tells the story of a grandfather and grandson going ice fishing. The

grandfather drives his truck with the ice fishing shack in tow and they go ice fishing. Grandfather sets up

the ice fishing house. They spend the day together fishing, enjoy themselves, and at the end of the day

plan to go back again. Ice fishing is a traditional northern pastime. A loving intergenerational relationship.

An independent and capable grandfather.

Lasky, Katherine (2009). Georgia Rises: A Day in the Life of Georgia O’Keefe

Farrar, Straus & Giroux (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780374325299

Presents a day in the life of the legendary, energetic artist Georgia O’Keefe in her later years. In the book

Georgia is an older woman with white hair. She loved and painted the landscapes of Texas and her

beloved New Mexico. In New Mexico she bought a house and land called Ghost Ranch. An interesting

story that details an active, successful, and productive life in old age.

Levine, Abby (2003). This is The Turkey

Albert Whitman (PS) $6.95

ISBN 9780807578896

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Family and friends are gathered for Thanksgiving dinner. Mom trips while taking the turkey to the table

and the turkey lands in the fish tank. Grandma says, “we have all we need because everyone’s here”.

Grandma and grandpa help the dinner go ahead as planned.

Lipson, Eden Ross (2009). Applesauce Season

Roaring Brook (PS-2) $17.99

ISBN 9781596432161

The grandson goes with his grandmother to market to purchase apples and she declares the start of

applesauce season. At home the family prepares the applesauce. Grandmother is an integral part of the

family and plays a major role in the applesauce making process. Recipe for applesauce is given at the

back of the book. Nonstereotypic portrayal of the grandmother.

Look, Lenore (2001). Henry’s First-Moon Birthday

Atheneum (PS-2) $18.99

ISBN 9780689822940

Gnin Gnin (paternal grandmother) came to help out for the birth of Jen’s baby brother, Henry. She knows

how to make sweaters, blankets, noodles, ornaments, and can braid hair beautifully. Gnin Gnin leads the

way and prepares for Henry’s first-moon (one-month) birthday. She and Jen cook food, write Chinese

calligraphy, and color eggs for good luck. Capable grandmother who is an integral part of the family.

Chinese words are defined. MULTICULTURAL

American Library Association Notable Books for Children

Lord, Janet (2008). Albert the Fix-It Man

Peachtree (PS-1) $15.95/$7.95

ISBN 9781561454334/ISBN 9781561458301

Albert has many tools and he is never to busy to help repair things for his friends and neighbors.

Everyone calls him the “Fix-It Man” repairs stuff for neighbors. Active older adult who is an integral part of

his community. When Albert falls ill his friends bring him meals and he is quickly on the mend.

Intergenerational sharing and caring.

Lord, Janet (2005). Here Comes Grandma!

Henry Holt & Company (PS-K) $14.99

ISBN 9780805076660

Grandma is coming to visit and it doesn’t matter if she has to walk, bicycle, drive, ski, or fly. Grandchild is

looking forward to the visit and grandma is greeted with a big hug.

Love, Maryann Cusimano (2010). You Are My Wish

Penguin (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9780399247521

The major characters are bears. Illustrates the loving relationship between grandparent and grandchild

as they explore what they mean to each other.

Lum, Kate (2002). What! Cried Granny. An Almost Bedtime Story

Penguin (PS-1) $6.99

ISBN 9780142300923

When Patrick goes to Grandma’s to spend the night he finds he needs a bed, a pillow, a blanket and a

teddy bear. Grandma makes sure Patrick has all of these. Arizona Young Reader’s Award

MacLachlan, Patricia (1994). All the Places to Love

HarperCollins (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780060210984

On the day Eli was born his grandmother held him up to the window so that what he heard first was the

wind and what he saw first was all the places to love. Everyone in Eli’s family has a favorite place. Mama

loves the meadows and hay fields, papa loves the fields to plow, grandmother loves the river, and

grandfather loves the barn where family names are carved in the rafters. Eli’s favorite place is the marsh

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

where ducklings follow their mother. Eli has wonderful memories of all of these places and he grows up

knowing that no matter where the rest of his life takes him all the places to love are still there. Reciprocal

intergenerational relationships of loving, sharing, and caring. Shows older people as active and integral

members of their families. Oklahoma Book Award

Marshall, Linda Elovitz (2012). Grandma Rose’s Magic

Kar-Ben (PS-K) $7.95

ISBN 9780761352150

Grandma Rose is a seamstress and creates beautiful things. She made clothes for her family, dolls for

grandchildren, and curtains and quilts for friends and neighbors. When she sews she always sews

something extra “magical” into each work, like the beautiful pink and red buttons shaped like roses on a

skirt, napkins to go with a tablecloth, or a monogram on a shirt. She saved the money from her sewing so

she could buy “the most beautiful set of dishes” she had ever seen—dishes just like the ones her

grandmother used on Shabbos when she was a child. Grandma Rose finally saved enough money for

the dishes but could not find the pattern she wanted. Her friends and family surprise her by finding the

dishes and giving them to her. An active grandmother who is working and shares the gift of giving and

doing for others. MULTICULTURAL

Martin, Bill Jr. & Archambault, John (1997). Knots on a Counting Rope

Square Fish (PS-2) $7.95

ISBN 9780805054798

An American Indian boy sits by the fire with his grandfather. The boy is blind and asks his grandfather to

once again tell him the story of his life. Each time the story is told the grandfather ties a knot in the

"counting rope". Through telling the story the grandfather has helped the boy become strong, capable,

and independent. The grandfather has a profound and positive influence on the boy's life.

MULTICULTURAL

Martin, Jacqueline Briggs (1998). Snowflake Bentley

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (1-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780547248295

This is the story of the life of this Wilson Bentley from childhood through adulthood. Bentley was born in

Jericho Vermont. He was a self-taught scientist who photographed thousands of individual snowflakes

and studied their unique formations. Colleges and universities bought copies of Bentley’s photographs,

his photos inspired artists and designers, and the photos are still used today. It was Bentley who

determined that each snowflake is different, and his book Snow Crystals has become a classic. This

story shows a lifetime of accomplishment, creativity and activity. Illustrates growing up and growing older.

Caldecott Medal Winner, American Library Association Notable Books for Children, ABC Children’s

Booksellers Choices Award

Mason, Margaret (2011). These Hands

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780547215662

Joseph’s grandpa could do just about anything with his hands like play the piano and throw a curve ball,

but there were some things he couldn’t do with his hands. The story discusses the racial discrimination

that separated people and how hands did join together to work against discrimination. The story ends

with the grandfather telling Joseph that his hands can do anything. MULTICULTURAL

Mayer, Mercer (2014). Just a Kite

HarperCollins (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9780062071972

Little Critter finds a kite at the store. He and dad put it together, go to the park to practice for the

Critterville Kite Flying Contest, and a big wind rips up the kite. The kite store does not have anymore

kites. Grandpa comes to the rescue and builds him a kite, the string breaks when the kite is flying, and

the kite is lost. Grandpa once gain comes to the rescue and builds an amazing new kite that wins a

ribbon for the most original kite.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Mayer, Mercer (2007). Grandma, Grandpa, and Me

HarperCollins (PS-2) $3.99

Little Critter Series

ISBN 9780060539511

Little Critter has a sleepover at Grandma and Grandpa’s farm. He helps milk the cows, collects eggs,

flies a kite, picks blueberries, and bakes a pie for the contest at the Country Fair. The pie has a special

ingredient: “lots of love”. Active grandparents, loving intergenerational relationship, and intergenerational

activities.

Mayer, Mercer (2001). Just Grandma & Me

Random House (PS-1) $3.99

Little Critter series

ISBN 9780307118936

Tells the story of Little Critter and his grandma and the good time that they had at their day at the beach.

McCain, Becky Ray (2004). Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher

Albert Whitman (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780807530320

Kimmy stays with her Chippewa grandmother while her parents look for a new home. Grandmother

teaches her to make a dreamcatcher to keep nightmares away and comfort her during the night.

Dreamcatchers catch the bad dreams and only let the good dreams come through. Having the

dreamcatcher helps to ease Kimmy’s move to her new home. Wise, capable grandmother.

MULTICULTURAL

McCutcheon, John (2006). Christmas in the Trenches

Peachtree (1-3) $19.95

ISBN 9781561453740

Grandpa talks about his favorite Christmas with his young grandchildren. His favorite Christmas was

during World War I in 1914. Grandpa was in the battlefield trenches when a Christmas truce was called.

The Christmas Truce of 1914 actually happened. Illustrates family history.

McGregor, Roy (2014). The Highest Number in the World

Tundra Books (2-3) $17.99

ISBN 9781770495753

Gabe is a young girl who loves to play hockey and makes the team. Her jersey had always worn her

lucky number 22 jersey in honor of Canadian women’s hockey legend Hayley Wickenheiser. Now that

she is on the team she has been give number 9 as her jersey number. She is unhappy about this and

decides she doesn’t want to play if she has to wear number 9. Grandmother played hockey as a girl and

tells Gabe that then all the girl players wore #9 in honor of Maurice “Rocket” Richard. Gordie Howe and

many famous hockey players also wore #9. Grandmother calls #9 the highest number in the world.

Gabe decides to play with her #9 jersey number. At the end of the book you see Gabe and her

grandmother in hockey jerseys on skates.

Menchin, Scott (2015). Grandma in Blue With Red Hat

Abrams (PS-1) $16.95

ISBN 9781419714849

A young boy goes to an art class at the museum each Saturday. There he learns that there are many

things that make art special. When he gets home his Grandma is waiting for him and thy talk about what

he learned. He decides to create his own special masterpiece and holds his own art exhibit. His

masterpiece is a series of paintings of Grandma that show the many aspects of her life and what she

means to the grandson. A favorite is the painting, “Grandma in Blue with a Red Hat”. Loving

intergenerational relationship. Art can be discussed as a lifespan activity. MUTICULTURAL

Mills, Claudia. Gus and Grandpa Series

Farrar, Straus & Giroux (K-3)

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

This excellent series shows a loving and warm intergenerational relationship and a grandfather who is

capable, caring, sensitive, and has good advice. Unfortunately, many of the books are out-of-print but are

available through vendors. Please visit the listing of out-of- print books in the series in this booklist.

Gus and Grandpa and Two-Wheeled Bike (1999/2001) $14.70/$4.95

ISBN 9780613983303/ISBN 9780374428167

Minnema, Cheryl (2014). Hungry Johnny

Minnesota Society Press (K-3) $17.95

ISBN 9780873519267

Johnny is hungry and grandma is cooking in the kitchen preparing thing for the community feast. At the

community center an older man was saying a prayer in Ojibwa. When the prayer was over Johnny

wanted to eat but Grandma explained that out of respect for the elders they ate first. Since Grandma was

older Johnny wanted to know why she was not eating. Grandma explained that she was a “baby elder”

and those eating were older than her. Acknowledges that people are living longer and terms such as old,

young older, old old, and oldest old are now being used. Today’s children can expect to someday be the

oldest old. Culture and language of the Ojibwa are presented. MULTICULTURAL

Mitchell, Margaree (1998). Uncle Jed’s Barbershop

Aladdin (PS-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780689819131

Everyone has a favorite relative and for a young African American girl, Sarah Jean, it’s her Uncle Jed.

Jedediah Johnson was the only black barber in the county. He had a dream of opening up his own

barber shop. However, a number of things kept him from achieving his dream. Uncle Jed finally opened

up his shop on his seventy-ninth birthday. Parts of our country’s history such as the Great Depression

and segregation are discussed. The story is based on the life and dreams of the author’s grandfather.

Shows an older person who is working and active in his community. MULTICULTURAL

Coretta Scott King Honor Book, American Library Association Notable Children’s Book

Mitchell, Margaree King (2012). When Grandmama Sings

HarperCollins (2-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780688175634

Belle’s Grandmama, Ivory Belle Coles, loved to sing and sang everywhere she went. She was invited to

go on a singing tour of the South but she could not read. Belle goes with Grandmama on her tour to read

for her. At the time the South was segregated and segregation, “people kept apart from one another”.

Segregation is limited where Grandmama could sing. Folks enjoyed her singing and started to write

about it. By the end of the tour Grandmama was singing to an audience of both black and white people;

her music had brought people together. Segregation is discussed. Grandmama stands up for what is

right and wanted a world where people where not kept apart. She passed that hope and message on to

her granddaughter. MULTICULTURAL

Moon, Emily Kate (2013). Joone

Dial (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9780803737440

Joone and her turtle, Dr. Chin, live with her grandpa who was a scientist. They live in a “yurt”, a round

house, that grandpa built years ago. Grandpa still fixes things at the yurt and sometimes Joone helps

him. Every day grandpa and Joone learn something from each other. Joone has a treehouse and

grandpa visits her in it. Illustrates the contemporary phenomena of grandparents raising grandchildren.

Active, independent, capable grandfather. A loving intergenerational relationship.

Mora, Pat & Martinez, Libby (2014). I Pledge Allegiance

Alfred A. Knopf (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780307931818

Libby’s great-aunt, “Lobo” immigrated to the United States from Mexico as a young girl. She is now 80

years old, has studied for her American citizenship test, and passed it. Libby is very proud of her. She

and Lobo practice the Pledge of Allegiance for Lobo to say when she becomes a U.S. citizen. Lobo

especially likes the words “liberty and justice for all” and says they are a promise to be fair to everyone.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

The story is based on the life of the author’s great-aunt who came to the U.S. during the Mexican

revolution. In the prologue the authors tell that into her nineties “Lobo” read with them, played games

with them, and was fun. Illustrates lifelong learning, an active, capable older adult and a loving,

intergenerational relationship. MULTICULURAL

Mora, Pat (2008). Sweet Dreams/Dulces Suenos

HarperCollins (PS-K) $14.89

ISBN 9780060850425

Grandmother, Abuelita, tucks in her grandchildren, gives each a kiss, and says goodnight to each of

them. Loving intergenerational relationship. Bilingual text in Spanish/English. MULTICULTURAL

Mora, Pat (1997). A Birthday Basket for Tia

Aladdin (PS-2) $6.99

ISBN 9780689813283

Cecilia is a young Mexican American girl. She has many happy memories of special times with her

Great-Aunt Tia and decides to give her a surprise 90

birthday party with a special birthday present.

A loving intergenerational relationship. Illustrates to children the prospect of a long, productive life.

MULTICULTURAL

Morris, Carla (2007). The Boy Who Was Raised By Librarians

Peachtree (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781561453917

Melvin loves the library and can always find answers there. The librarians, Marge, Betty, and Leeola, are

always at the reference desk and ready to help him. The story shows Melvin’s love of the library from

when he was a little boy through high school. When he graduates from high school the librarians, who

are now older, go to his high school graduation. Illustrates growing up and growing older and shows the

value of reading and the library.

Morrison, Toni & Morrison, Slade (2009). Peeny Butter Fudge

Simon & Schuster (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9781416983323

Grandchildren have fun visiting nana. They do lots of fun activities like singing songs, reading stories,

dancing, doing puzzles, and making “peeny” butter fudge. Active African-American grandmother who is

an integral part of the family. Written in rhyming verse. MULTICULTURAL.

Moseley, Keith (2014). Where’s the Fairy?

Sterling (PS-1) $14.95

ISBN 9781454913634

When Moly visits her grandmother she “whisks” her off on her motorcycle on amazing adventures. This

time grandmother takes her dog, Pebbles, and Molly on in such of fairies in the forest. As they journey

through the forest on their search many forest animals are shown. Molly and grandmother do not see any

fairies, but Pebbles sees some.

Moser, Linda (2009). Kisses on the Wind

Candlewick (PS-2) $15.99

ISBN 9780763631109

A pioneer family is moving to Oregon. Grandma is not moving with them and the young granddaughter

does not want to leave her. Grandma knows what the young girl is feeling and through memories,

activities, and storytelling helps her get ready to make the trip. Grandmother gives the granddaughter a

book of her stories to take with her so she and her love will always be with her. As the family left for

Oregon the grandmother sent the granddaughter kisses on the wind.

Moser, Lisa (2006). Watermelon Wishes

Clarion (PS-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780547533803

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Charlie and Grandpap prepare to plant watermelon seeds. Charlie tells Grandpap that he wants to grow

a “wishing watermelon” and Grandpap is not sure what that is. Charlie tells him that it is a very special

watermelon that can give only one wish. Over the summer Charlie and Grandpap do many things

together as they watch the watermelons grow. Charlie finds his watermelon and made a wish. He

wished for a summer just like the one he had just had with Grandpap. Loving intergenerational

relationship and an active Grandpap.

Murphy, Claire Rudolf (2011). Marching with Aunt Susan: Susan B. Anthony and

the Fight for Women’s Suffrage

Peachtree (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781561455935

When Bessie was young, girls were not allowed to do many of the things that boys did. Her brothers went

hiking and bicycle riding, but she was not allowed to. One day Bessie picks up a paper and reads about

Susan B. Anthony. Miss Anthony is now an older woman and Bessie’s mother tells her that she has

fought fifty years for women’s rights. Bessie gets to meet Miss Anthony who everyone calls “Aunt Susan”

and hears her talk about women’s rights. The talk changes Bessie’s life and she works for women’s

suffrage. Miss Anthony is seen as a person who dedicated her life to what she believed in. Illustrates a

capable, active older person.

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award 2014

Murphy, Yannick (2006). Ahwoooooooo!

Clarion (K-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780618117628

Little Wolf wants to learn to howl but mother and father wolf are too busy to teach him. Other animals in

the forest do not howl, so they cannot teach him. His grandfather teaches Little Wolf to howl.

Grandfather tells him that you have to think of all the things you love when you howl.

Newman, Leslea (2012). A Sweet Passover

Abrams (PS-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780810997370

Passover, also called the Festival of Freedom, is an eight day Jewish holiday. During Passover a young

girl, Miriam, ends up eating too much matzah. By the time Passover is over she decides that she never

wants to eat matzah again. Grandpa has a special Passover French toast, his special matzah brie, that

he makes for her and Miriam learns to like matzah again. She and Grandpa then make matzah brie

together. As the story is told things such as being humble, doing good deeds, and getting along with

everyone are mentioned. The book contains a recipe for the matzah brie, a brief summary of the

Passover holiday, and definitions of some of the words used in the book. MULTICULTURAL

Newman, Nanette (2012). What Will You Be, Grandma?

Candlewick Press (PS-2) $15.99

ISBN 9780763660994

Lily asked her grandma “What do you think you’ll be when you grow up?” Her grandmother said that a lot

of people thought she was grown up already, but Lily told her grandmother that she still had a long way to

go. Lily envisioned her grandma doing many things including her grandmother being an artist, a doctor, a

gardener, an entertainer, and a fairy with a magic wand. The story indicates that the young girl sees the

potentials of older adults and the ability to achieve and do throughout life. A loving intergenerational

relationship where the granddaughter sees the potentials of old age.

Nicholson, Caitlin (2008). Niwechihaw/I Help

Groundwood Books (PS-K) $18.95

ISBN 9780888998125

This simply told story is written in both Cree and English and illustrates Cree life and customs. The

author’s grandmother helped young people live with tradition and cultural values in a contemporary world,

was the inspiration for the book. In Cree the word kôhkom means grandmother. Cree children have

many kôhkom’s. A young boy and his grandmother as get ready to drive to the woods. In the woods they

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

walk, pray, pick berries, listen, eat, and share time together. Reflects the knowledge that children can

receive from older adults. Share with children the dialogue, notes and acknowledgements at the end of

the book. The epilogue says that children should never stop learning from elders and that elders are the

key to the past and the future. Young people use kôhkom as a term of love and respect for women

elders. MULTICULTURAL

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award 2010

Nielsen, Laura (2008). Mrs. Muddle’s Holidays

Farrar, Straus & Giroux (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780374350949

Mrs. Muddle moves into Katie’s neighborhood. She rides a bicycle and celebrates more holidays than

anyone including First Robin Day, First Shower of April, and First Snow. Holidays are some of her

favorite things and she celebrates them with the neighborhood. The children and their families surprise

Mrs. Muddle with another holiday “Mrs. Muddle Day”. At the end of the book the meaning of “holidays” is

described. Capable, active older adult. Illustrates young and old enjoying each other, learning from each

other and intergenerational friendship.

Numeroff, Laura (2000). What Grandmas Do Best/What Grandpas Do Best

Simon & Schuster (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 9780689805523

Animals are the characters in the book. Read the book and find out what grandmas do best, then turn the

book upside down and find out what grandpas do best. Lots of fun activities for grandparents and

grandchildren to do. What grandparents do best though is give lots of love.

O’Connor, Jane (2010). Fancy Nancy: My Family History

HarperCollins (PS-2) $3.99

ISBN 9780061882715

A story of family history and knowing about your ancestors. Children are writing ancestor reports in class.

Bree is writing about her great-grandfather who is ninety and a war hero. Robert’s great-grandmother is

one hundred and came to American on a ship that almost sank. Fancy Nancy gathers information from

her Grandpa about their family history. Few books address older adults that are 90 and 100 years old.

Opens up a discussion of the long lives the children can be expected to have and what they want to be

and do as an older adult.

O’Connor, Jane (2008). Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly

HarperCollins (PS-3) $3.99

ISBN 9780061882715

Nancy can’t wait to attend her friend’s butterfly birthday party but finds out that she can’t go to the party

because she is attending her grandparent’s 50

wedding anniversary party. She is not happy about

missing her friend’s party, but her mother tells her that being married for fifty years is “exceptional,

extraordinary”. When she gets to the anniversary party her grandparents are thrilled to see her and she

has a wonderful time. At the party grandma and grandpa dance and grandpa taught Nancy how to cha-

cha. The day after the party her grandparents take her to the zoo’s butterfly garden. Active grandparents

and non-stereotypic portrayal of older adults.

Ortega, Cristina (2006). The Eyes of the Weaver/Los Ojus del Tejedor

University of New Mexico Press (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780826339904

The author’s grandfather is the subject of this book. The Ortega family has made beautiful weavings for

generations. Maria Christina goes to visit her grandpa in New Mexico at the family farm. At the farm she

experiences many traditions. Grandpa is a master weaver and is proud that Christina learns to weave.

Hispanic culture is presented, Spanish words are used throughout the book, and a Spanish glossary of

words is included. Active grandfather who is still working. Loving intergenerational relationship.

MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Parish, Herman (2011). Amelia Bedelia Makes a Friend

HarperCollins (PS-2) $3.99

ISBN 9780062075154

Amelia Bedelia’s family moves away and she misses her best friend. One day a new neighbor moves in.

The new neighbor is an older woman and she and Amelia Bedelia become friends. Few books illustrate

intergenerational friendship and this book shows the potential of friendships with older adults.

Parr, Todd (2011). The Grandma Book

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (PS) $7.00

ISBN 9780316070416

Grandmas are very special and they know everything. Grandmas are happy when you spend the night

with them and they like to hear from you. Mentions grandmas in a variety of roles including helping their

neighbors and taking care of their grandchildren. Loving portrayal of grandma’s doing many things.

Parr, Todd (2011). The Grandpa Book

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (PS) $8.00

ISBN 9780316070430

Grandpas are very special. Grandpas like to hold and hug you. Talks about the many things that

grandpas do including telling you stories, teaching you new things, sending you cards, taking you to

school and to the park, and making you laugh.

Pellegrino, Marjorie (2000). My Grandma’s the Mayor

American Psychological Association (1-3) $14.95

ISBN 9781557986085

Annie is very proud of her grandmother when she gets elected mayor but grandma now has to spend a

lot of time with her new job. Grandma and Annie work this out. This is one of the few books that shows

an older person in a leadership position. It is one of only a few books that share with children the

leadership roles older people often play in our nation and communities.

Phillips, J. C. (2009). Wink. The Ninja Who Wanted to be Noticed

Penguin (PS-2) $15.99

ISBN 9780670010929

Wink was very happy when he was accepted in the Summer Moon School for Young Ninjas. Master

Zutsu was an older ninja who taught the students. Master Zutsu has trouble getting Wink to behave like a

ninja and has interesting words of wisdom. An example, when Wink was being very loud Master Zutsu

stated: “The loudest cricket is the first to be caught”. Intergenerational learning, and an older adult who is

active and working.

Piernas-Davenport, Gail (2007). Shante Keys and the New Year’s Peas

Albert Whitman (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780807573303

It’s New Years and Shante Keys family is going to grandmas. Grandma has forgotten to cook the black-

eyed peas. It’s supposed to be a year of bad luck if you don’t eat black-eyed peas at New Years. Shante

goes to her neighbors to find some and each of them tells her their New Year’s foods and customs from

different countries. Shante finds the peas and invites all of her neighbors over for New Year’s dinner. At

the end of the book it talks about New Year’s traditions in other countries.

Pinson, Isabel (2014). Bubbe’s Belated Bat Mitzvah

Kar-Ben (2-3) $7.95

ISBN 9781467719506

Bubbe is teaching her great-granddaughter how to crochet and the girl finds that Bubbe never had a Bat

Mitzvah because girls were not allowed then to read from the Torah. The granddaughter decides that

Bubbe should have a Bat Mitzvah. At 95 years old Bubbe studies for her learns to read from the Torah

and all the great-grandchildren help her prepare for her belated Bat Mitzvah. The story was inspired by

the author’s mother who had a Bat Mitzvah at age 95 and celebrated the occasion with her children and

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

great-grandchildren. Active great-grandmother, lifelong learning, old and young learning from each other,

and a loving family relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Polacco, Patricia (1988, 2013). The Keeping Quilt

Simon (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9781442482371

The book was first published in 1988 and has a 25

anniversary edition that includes fifteen new pages

and details about what happened to the original quilt belonging to the author’s family. The quilt started

with the dress and babushka the author’s Great-Gramma Anna had when she came from Russia to

America as a child. When Anna outgrew the dress, it, the babushka, and other family clothing were made

into a quilt. Over the years other items of family clothing were incorporated into a quilt that would be

passed down through the family. The quilt was used for many things including a Sabbath tablecloth,

wedding canopy (huppa), and a blanket for welcoming new babies. The author expanded on the original

edition by incorporating information on how her children and family have used the quilt including for

sleeping, as a tent, and for superhero capes. Family history and tradition. MULTICULTURAL

Sydney Taylor Book Award from the Association of Jewish Libraries

Polacco, Patricia (1998). The Bee Tree

Penguin (K-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780698116962

Mary Ellen is tired of reading and wants to do something outside. Grampa decides that they will find a

bee tree. He lets a bee loose from a jar and tells Mary Ellen that the bee will lead them to a bee tree and

honey. Others join in the race and the bee tree is found. Grampa invited everyone back to the house for

biscuits, tea and honey.

Polacco, Patricia (1990/1997). Thunder Cake

Penguin (1-5) $7.99

ISBN 9780698115811

A grandmother helps her granddaughter overcome fear of thunderstorms. When the grandmother senses

that a storm is coming she announces it is "Thunder Cake" baking weather. To be a real Thunder Cake it

needs to be in the oven before the storm comes. Grandmother and granddaughter make the cake

together. An independent, loving, and capable grandmother emerges from this beautifully illustrated text.

Purmell, Ann (2006). Christmas Tree Farm

Holiday House (K-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780823418862

Grandpa and his grandson ride on a tractor through the family Christmas tree farm. All year long grandpa

and his family work on the farm planting, pruning, and tagging trees for Christmas. Grandpa knows about

all the trees on the farm. From the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve grandpa works at his

Christmas Tree Hut. On Christmas Eve the family gathers at Grandpa and Grandma’s house for an old-

time tree-trimming party. Active Grandfather who is working.

Quattlebaum, Mary & Bryant, Laura J. (2013). Jo MacDonald Hiked in the Woods

Dawn Publications (K-2) $8.95

ISBN 9781584693352

New words to the tune of “Old MacDonald” are sung and an environmental twist is given to the song. As

Jo and her grandpa hike in the woods thy eat lunch and find all kinds of interesting things. At the end of

the book the forest community is discussed, children learn about the many things that live in the forest,

how to be a naturalist and citizen-scientist, and hear about activities to learn about the forest. Websites

for children to visit including the American Hiking Society (www.americanhiking.org) and the U.S. Forest

Service, Discover the Forest site (www.discovertheforest.org) are given. Grandpa is independent and

active and an intergenerational activity of hiking is shared. An important environmental message is

shared.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Ransome, James (2012). My Teacher

Penguin (K-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780803732599

Her teacher had taught her mother and grandmothers and the girl wondered why the teacher had not

retired. The teacher loves teaching, inspires children to use their talents, and encourages them to read

and write. The teacher tells stories about things in the past, like the jazz played by Duke Ellington and

the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem where people danced. She teaches the children the gift of sharing as they

put together Thanksgiving baskets for people. She helps the children see all that they can be and do.

When the young girl asks her teacher why she keeps teaching she replies “I just love teaching and being

a part of your lives. I love helping to make your dreams come true”. A capable, caring older adult who is

working. MULTICULTURAL

Rau, Dana Meachen (2003). Albert Einstein

Compass Point Books (1-3) $5.95

ISBN 9780756510503

Part of the Compass Point Biographies series. Tells the life story of one of the world’s greatest scientists

from childhood through old age. As a child Einstein had trouble memorizing words but he loved math,

science, ideas, games that took a lot of thought, and playing the violin. He especially liked finding the

answers to questions. He obtained a college degree in physics and won a Nobel Prize in physics. He

wrote theories about how the world works, discovered the atom, and the theory of relativity. He believed

that people needed to try to understand each other and was an advocate for peace. His love for mankind

is evidenced in his quote: “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” Some of his most important

work was developed in his old age. Illustrates growing up and growing older and a meaningful,

productive life.

Reagan, Jean (2014). How to Babysit a Grandma

Alfred A. Knopf (PS-K)

ISBN 9780385753845

It’s a sleepover at grandma’s house. When the young girl arrives at grandma’s she shouts: Grandma,

your babysitter is here!” She “keeps grandma busy” as they bake snickerdoodles, have a costume party,

go to the park, look at family pictures, play hide and seek, have a dancing puppet show, read books, play

cards, and say I-LOVE-YOU in sign language without saying a sound. Companion book to how to Babysit

a Grandpa.

Robinson, Sharon (2014). Under The Same Sun

Scholastic (2-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780545166720

Aunt Sharon and Grandmother Bibi are coming from America to Tanzania in celebration of Bibi’s 85

birthday and the children are planning a big surprise. For many days gift and stories are exchanged

among the family. The surprise is birthday party and a safari in Serengeti National Park. The family

history and slave trade as a part of this history are presented. As Bibi prepares to go home to America

she tells the children: “We may be separated by land and sea, but we are always under the same sun”.

The family plans a trip to reunite again. Nonstereotypic illustrations of older adults. Even when apart,

older adults are seen as integral members of the family. Dedicated to the author’s mother and

grandmother and to families everywhere who are separated by land and sea. MULTICULTURAL

Rookie Biographies

Scholastic/Children’s Press (1-3) $4.95-$5.95

This extensive series has multiple authors. Each book presents the lives of famous people including

presidents, artists, scientists, activists and inventors from childhood, to life as an adult, and older adult.

Interesting pictures accompany each story. The books are inspiring. Many of the people overcame

adversity to lead successful, caring, and meaningful lives. Some of the stories offer advice to children

such as: ask questions such as “Why” and “How”, think of how you can help others, discover things you

enjoy, find your talents, don’t be afraid to try new things, when you do something give it your all, and stay

focused on your dreams. Many of the books in the series are out-of-print but some come back as revised

editions. Illustrates creative life in old age. The following is a selection of books in the series that may be

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

of interest to young readers. Please view the series online to see other books and new series books that

may of interest to young readers.

Ditchfield, Christin (2003). Johnny Appleseed ISBN 9780516278162 $4.95

Eddy, Susan (2004). Mother Theresa ISBN 9780516279220 $4.95

Evento, Susan (2005). Sitting Bull ISBN 9780516258294 $4.95

Fontes, Justin (2005). Rachel Carson ISBN 97805156268194 $4.95

Grant, Karima (2006). Nelson Mandela ISBN9780516255378 $4.95

Mara, Wil (2003). Alexander Graham Bell ISBN 9780516273402 $4.95

Mara, Wil (2006). Betsy Ross ISBN 9780516253695 $4.95

Mara, Wil (2014). Amelia Earhart ISBN 978053249802 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2004). Thomas Edison ISBN 9780516258225 $4.95

Mara, Wil (2014). Benjamin Franklin ISBN 9780531212011 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2013). Steve Jobs ISBN 9780531247051 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2013). Martin Luther King ISBN 9780531247044 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2014). Abraham Lincoln ISBN 9780531249796 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2013). Harriet Tubman ISBN 9780531247027 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2003). John Muir ISBN 9780516273426 $4.95

Mara, Wil (2013). Barack Obama ISBN 9780531247013 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2014). Rosa Parks ISBN 9780513212042 $5.95

Mara, Wil (2014). Jackie Robinson ISBN 9780531249833 $5.95

Mara, Wil & Clidas, Claudia (2003). Colin Powell ISBN 9780516258775 $4.95

Rau, Dana Meachen (2014). Neil Armstrong ISBN 9780531249840 $5.95

Rau, Dana Meachen (2014). George Washington Carver ISBN 9780531249826 $5.95

Taylor, Butler, Christine (2007). Booker T. Washington ISBN9780516273020 $4.95

Root, Phyllis (2003). The Name Quilt

Farrar, Straus & Giroux (K-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780374354848

Sadie vacations at Grandma’s in the summer. Every evening grandma tucks Sadie into bed with the

“name quilt.” Every name on the quilt is a member of the family and has a story. One of the quilt’s

patches was a piece of Grandma’s wedding dress. One day when the name quilt is on the clothesline a

storm blows it away. Even with the quilt gone grandma lets Sadie know that the stories will live on. Sadie

and Grandma start a new quilt. Active grandmother. Presents family history and oral history.

Rosenbaum, Andria (2006). A Grandma Like Yours/A Grandpa Like Yours

Kar-Ben (PS-K) $6.95

ISBN 9781580131681

Grandmas and grandpas can be counted on to make each Jewish holiday special. Grandmas and

grandpas in the book are animal characters and all are portrayed as active. Jewish traditions are

portrayed. A glossary of Hebrew and Yiddish words are included. MULTICULTURAL

Rosenthal, Betsy (2006). It’s Not Worth Making a Tzimmes Over

Albert Whitman (K-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780807536773

Grandma rides a motor scooter. Sara and grandma play badminton and do many things together. One

morning grandma asked Sara if she would like to make a challah, which is a braided or round egg bread

often used on the Sabbath and Jewish holidays. Many mishaps occur in the making of the bread and

grandma responds with “It’s not work making a tzimmes over.” Grandma and Sara forget to watch the

dough and it rises up so much that it takes over the neighborhood. An interesting solution happens when

the bread is finally baked and there is enough for the entire neighborhood. MULTICULTURAL

Rubbino, Salvatore (2014). A Walk in Paris

Candlewick (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780763669843

A young boy and his grandfather visit Paris together and see many wonderful sites. Grandpa points out

landmarks as they walk. They find places such as the River Seine, Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Pompidou

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Center, Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum. They eat at a Bistro for lunch where steak-frites, steak

with French fries, is a popular lunch. The text presents additional information about the city, gives some

French words and phrases, and shares interesting French history and tradition. Active, capable

grandfather. Can bring up the conversation of travel with older adults and programs such as Road

Scholar (formerly Elderhostel) that offer intergenerational travel opportunities.

Ryan, Pam Munoz (2001). Mice and Beans

Scholastic (K-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780439183031

In one week Rosa Maria’s youngest grandchild, Little Catalina, will be seven years old. Rosa Maria loves

to cook and she is having the whole family (including children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles and cousins)

over for the birthday dinner. She planned the menu, ironed the tablecloths, went to the market, planned

the party activities, and ordered a cake and a birthday present. The mice in the house add an interesting

touch to the story. An active, capable grandmother who is a vital member of her family.

MULTICULTURAL

Rylant, Cynthia. Mr. Putter and Tabby Series

Harcourt (PS-3)

In the series Mr. Putter has a cat named Tabby and his friend, Mrs. Merriweather, has a bulldog

Named Zeke. Both Mr. Putter and Mrs. Merriweather are active older adults. The two of them enjoy each

other’s company and do things together including sports activities. Please check for additional books in

the series. A listing of books follows:

Mr. Putter and Tabby Drop the Ball (2013). ISBN 9780152050726 $14.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Dance the Dance (2012). ISBN 9780544104969 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Ring the Bell (2012). ISBN 9780547850757 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Clear the Decks (2011). ISBN 9780152067151/ISBN9780547576954

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Spill the Beans (2009/2010). ISBN 9780152050702/ISBN 9780547414331

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Run the Race (2008/2010). ISBN 9780152060695/ISBN 9780547248240

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby See the Stars (2007/2008). ISBN 9780152060756/ISBN 978015203665

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Walk the Dog (2007). ISBN 9780152008918 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Spin the Yarn (2007). ISBN 9780152060954 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Make a Wish (2006). ISBN 9780152005434 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Write the Book (2005). ISBN 9780152002411/ISBN 9870152002428

$14.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Stir the Soup (2004). ISBN 9780756939151 $16.00

Mr. Putter and Tabby Feed the Fish (2002). ISBN 9780613443159/ISBN 9780152163662

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Paint the Porch (2000). ISBN 9780152024741 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Take the Train (2000).ISBN 97802613228954/ISBN 9780152023898

$16.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Toot the Horn (1999). ISBN 9780613228954/ISBN 9780152002473

$16.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Row the Boat (1997). ISBN 9870152010591 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Fly the Plane (1997). ISBN 9780752010607 $5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Bake the Cake (1994). ISBN 9780152002053/ISBN 97806133022903

$15.00/$5.99

Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour The Tea (1994). ISBN 9780152009014 $5.99

Rylant, Cynthia (2002). The Ticky-Tacky Doll

Harcourt Children’s Books (PS-2) $17.00

ISBN 9780152010782

Grandmama made her granddaughter a ticky-tacky doll from sewing scraps and the little girl loved the

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

doll. When the girl started school it made her sad to leave her doll at home so grandmama made her a

miniature of the doll that could fit into her book bag: “Very small and ready to go to school.” A caring and

sensitive grandmother and a loving intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Rylant, Cynthia (2012). Annie and Snowball and the Grandmother Night

Simon Spotlight (K-2) $15.99/$3.99

ISBN 9781416972037/ISBN 9781416972020

Annie especially loved her grandmother and wore a locket with a picture of her. One night every month

Annie stayed at grandmother’s house. When she arrived grandmother was always waiting at the door

and scooped her into her arms with a big smile. At grandmother’s they bake cookies, play cookie tic-tac-

toe, and have fun bedtime activities. One bedtime activity is telling stories from their life. They loved

story time and learned a lot about each other—like grandmother learning to ride a horse when she was

young. When Annie leaves grandmother hugs Annie and tells her that she loves her. Annie had a

“perfect” time and can’t wait to come back. Loving intergenerational relationship and family history.

Rylant, Cynthia (1993). When I Was Young in the Mountains

Penguin (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 978014548754

The story is a reminiscence of the pleasures of childhood in the Appalachian Mountains. Although older

adults are not main characters they appear in a variety of roles and are integrated into family and

community throughout the story. A 20

anniversary edition is available. MULTICULTURAL

Caldecott Honor Book

Rylant, Cynthia (1993). The Relatives Came

Antheneum (PS-1) $7.99

ISBN 9780689717383

The relatives come from Virginia to visit and have a wonderful time. Older people are integrated

throughout the text. The book illustrates family relationships, allows discussion of generations, and

shows older people in a variety of situations. MULTICULTURAL

Rylant, Cynthia (1987). This Year's Garden

Antheneum (PS-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780689711220

This book shows the seasons of the year as reflected in the family garden. This is a large family and

family members are portrayed in a variety of roles. Grandmother cans the garden products. Active older

people who contribute to family life.

Salzberg,Barney (2014). Tea With Grandpa

Roaring Brook (PS-1) $15.99

ISBN 9781596438941

A young girl and her grandfather are miles apart but always have tea together at 3pm. Using computer

technology they can see and talk to each other even. Warm intergenerational relationship and a

contemporary way for children to keep in touch with grandparents who are near or far away.

Sasso, Sandy (2004). Abuelita’s Secret Matzahs

Clerisy Press (2-3) $9.99

ISBN 9781578601776

Jacobo is a young Spanish American boy. He loves to visit his grandmother, Abuelita, especially at

Easter when they paint Easter eggs. Jacobo notices that some of the traditions his family follows are

different than other families. They do not eat pork and, during Holy Week, his grandmother never ate

bread and only served tortillas made without yeast. The different traditions become more puzzling to

Jacobo and one day Abuelita shares with him “the secret of our family”. Generations ago his family had

been Jewish and they still followed many of the Jewish traditions. Spanish words are integrated

throughout the text. MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Say, Allen (2013). Grandfather’s Journey

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $17.99/$7.99

ISBN 9780544050501/ISBN 978054405050

anniversary edition of the award winning book. An adult grandson tells the story of his grandfather’s

travel from Japan to America, his life in America, his return to Japan with his wife and daughter, and his

love of both countries. The daughter is the grandson’s mother. The grandson was born and raised in

Japan and eventually goes to America and shares his time between the two countries he also loves.

Illustrates growing up and growing older and family history. MULTICULTURAL

Caldecott Medal Winner

Schotter, Roni (2012). All About Grandmas

Penguin (PS-K) $16.99

ISBN 9780803737143

There are many kinds of grandmas. Illustrates grandmas doing many different things and different

cultures. Some grandmas’ work, some travel, and some tell wonderful stories from times long ago.

Mentions that if you don’t have a grandma all your own perhaps “you can find someone special on loan”.

The child in the book has an older friend who lives down the block, is like family, and who she loves a lot.

The book shares how to say grandma in languages around the world. Presents and supports the idea of

intergenerational friendship.

Schwartz, Howard (2010). Gathering Sparks

Roaring Brook (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 978596432802

Grandfather came to visit and the night sky was filled with stars. When grandfather and grandchild go out

to enjoy it hey see fireflies and hear crickets chirping. The grandchild asks where the stars came from.

Grandfather tells a story of how the stars came to be as sparks of light scattered throughout the heavens

and how some the sparks fell to earth. The grandchild asks how the sparks can be gathered on earth

and the grandfather gives examples including doing good deeds, being kind to animals, and loving

someone. He says that one day, when enough sparks are gathered, there will be peace in the world.

Schwartz, Amy (2009). Our Corner Grocery Store

Tundra (PS-2) $19.95

ISBN 9780887768682

Saturday is the favorite day of the week for a young granddaughter, Anna Maria, because she spends the

day at her grandparent’s, Nonno Domenico and Nonna Rosa’s, grocery store. The store is full of activity

and everyone has a job to do. Her grandparents live above their store. Active grandparents who are

working. MULTICULTURAL

Sheth, Kashmira (2008). Monsoon Afternoon

Peachtree (K-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781561454556

It is monsoon season in India. A young boy is restless and can’t find anyone in his family to play with him

except for his grandfather “Dadaji”. Dadaji and the boy make paper boats and race them in a washtub in

the rain, take a walk, and watch a peacock dancing. Dadaji helps the boy play on a banyan tree and they

pick mangoes to give to grandmother “Dadima”. During their outing the grandfather teaches the boy

about the monsoon and what they are seeing. Loving relationship between grandson and grandfather.

MULTICULTURAL

Sheth, Kashmira (2007). My Dadima Wears a Sari

Peachtree (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781561453924

In America Rupa’s grandmother wears a sari like she did in India. Grandmother’s sari dances in the

breeze. The grandmother shares with Rupa all the wonderful things that sari’s do, like protect you from

the rain, wrap up shells at the beach, and a young girl can hide there. Grandmother gives Rupa and her

young sister sari’s that were hers. At the end of the book there is a picture story on how to wrap a sari.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Story presents family history and cultural traditions. MULTICULTURAL

Shulimson, Sarene (2012). Lights Out Shabbat

Kar-Ben (PS-2) $7.95

ISBN 97807613756574

During the lighting of the Shabbat candles a there is a snow storm and a young boy and his grandparents

lose the electrical power at his grandparent’s home. Snow storms are not common in Georgia. They

enjoy a holiday of fun that includes eating a special “cold” meal, walks around the neighborhood, shadow

puppets, making snowmen and a snow dog, grandpa telling stories, exploring the attic, and stargazing

through a telescope. The power comes back on, and the unexpected snowfall had brought a special

Shabbat to the boy and his grandparents. MULTICULTURAL

Sis, Peter (2015). Ice Cream Summer

Scholastic (PS-K) $17.99

ISBN 9780545731614

Summer provides not just time off from school, it presents opportunities for learning. Grandpa writes his

grandson a letter asking him to tell him about what he learned this summer. The grandson shares that he

reads every day, is conquering big spelling words like “tornado”, creating his own book, dreaming up

inventions, practicing his math facts and working out word problems with his family. He explains how he

has taken exciting field trips, is exploring new places, and learning about history. Grandpa had given his

grandson a set of encyclopedias and the grandson uses them to keep his brain working. The somewhat

lost art of letter writing is presented and a grandfather who is encouraging learning.

Slegers, Liesbet (2012). Katie’s Day With Grandma

Clavis (PS-K) $12.95

ISBN 9781605371269

Katie spends time at Grandma’s and Grandpa’s house. They go to the store, make pancakes, and clean

up the dishes. After eating pancakes thy make a string necklace together. At bedtime Grandma reads a

story to Katie. An enjoyable day with active grandparents.

Smith, Maggie (2014). My Blue Bunny, Bubbit

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780547558615

The young girl’s grandmother, Nonni, made her a blue bunny, Bubbit, when she was little. Bubbit is very

special to her and was made with hundred’s kisses when Nonni made him. Bubbit has a special row of

x’s for kisses on his foot. The girl’s mother is now expecting a baby and Nonni has come to stay for a few

weeks. After supper Nonni reads to her until bedtime. She and Nonni decide to make something for the

new baby. Nonni makes a pattern, they sew together and make the baby his own special friend complete

with kisses. The new baby now has own special friend, a corduroy elephant. What goes into a sewing

basket is illustrated. Active, capable grandmother.

Solomon, Sharon (2009). Walk With Grandpa/Un paseo con abuelo

Raven Tree (K-3) $16.95/$7.95

ISBN 9781934960110/ISBN 9781932748901

Daniela and her grandfather take a walk through the woods. As they walk they play a word game to show

just how much they mean to each other. When grandfather tells Daniela that she is his earth, she

responds “You are my sky”. The conversation continues as they walk through the woods. They express

their love for each other. Written in English and Spanish. MULTICULTURAL

Spangler, Lois (2013). The Fort on Fourth Street: A Story About the Six Simple

Machines

Sylvan Dell (PS-K) $17.95/$9.95

ISBN 9781607186205/ISBN 9781607186328

Kathleen wants to build a fort in her backyard on Fourth Street. She enlists grandpa’s help. Grandpa

teaches her about the machines they need to build the fort: lever, pulley, inclined plane, wheels and axels

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

(wagon), screws, and wedge (saw). The story is told in rhyme and details the machines being used and

building them. Teaches children about simple machines that “are easy to use and easy to stow, making it

simple when you are on the go”. Active, capable grandfather.

Stanley, George (2013). Wedding Cookies

Random House Children’s (K-2) $3.99

ISBN 9780307817075 (Only available as an ebook)

Katie Lynn is happy that Grandma is getting married and she will be the flower girl. When the florist

doesn’t deliver a wedding bouquet Katie Lynn gets creative and makes a bouquet of wedding cookies for

Grandma’s wedding. One of the few books where older adults marry.

Stevens, Janet & Crummel, Susan Stevens (2004). Plaidypus Lost

Holiday House (PS-1) $17.95/$7.99

ISBN 9780823415618/ISBN 9780823427536

Grandma makes her old plaid shirt into a Plaidypus for her young granddaughter and the girl promises to

never lose him. The young girl and Plaidypus go everywhere together. There are times when Plaidypus

gets lost but then found. One time Plaidypus gets lost for longer than usual and returns home “hurt”.

Grandma fixes him good as new. Capable Grandma and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Stock, Catherine (2001). Gugu’s House

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780618003891

The story is set in the grassy plains of Zimbabwe. Kukamba takes the bus from the city to visit her

grandmother, Gugu. From the bus they walk the long, dusty path to Gugu’s house. Kukamba has never

seen a home as beautiful. She loves the colorful paintings and sculpted animals that Gugu has made.

Gugu shares village traditions and shows Kukamba how to sculpt and paint wonderful animals like

zebras, leopards, and birds. The rains come and the painting and sculpting turn to mud, but grandmother

tells her that the landscape is reborn with the rain. An active, creative grandmother based on a real

person. A glossary of Afrikaans terms is included. MULTICULTURAL

Stolz, Mary (1990). Storm In The Night

HarperCollins (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780064432566

Thomas and his grandfather are together during a thunderstorm and the lights go off. During the storm

Thomas discovers amazing things, such as the fact that he can hear better in the dark. Shows old and

young enjoying and learning from each other.

Sullivan, Sara (2011). Passing the Music Down

Candlewick (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780763637538

Based on the true story of a friendship between Melvin Wine and Jake Krack. Every August people

traveled from all over to hear the fiddle playing of Melvin Wine. Jake, a boy in the crowd, knows some of

the older man’s music and plays the music with him. Mr. Wine gives Jake advice on how to play and

Jake asks him to teach him. Jake returns time after time and not only learns music but the ways of the

farm, the woods, the garden, and of many other things. They become the best of friends. “Their lives are

stitched together in a quilt of old-time tunes.” At the end of the story Mr. Wine passes away, but Jake

continues his music. The prologue of the book shares the friendship between Mr. Wine and Jake and

shares the tradition of “passing the music down”.

Taulbert, Clifton (2003). Little Cliff’s First Day of School

Penguin (2-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780142500828

Little Cliff, is a young African American boy who has lived with his great-grandparents, Poppa Joe and

Mama Pearl, all his life. He is apprehensive about his first day at school. His great-grandparents help

him to overcome his apprehension and make his day a happy one. Few stories have great-grandparents

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

raising great-grandchildren. Contemporary issue of grandparents raising grandchildren. Great-

grandparents are depicted as capable, sensitive, and caring. MULTICULTURAL

Teevee, Ningeokuluk (2009). Alego

Groundwood (K-2) $17.95

ISBN 9780888999436

An Inuit girl, Alego, goes to see her grandmother (Anaanatsiaq) almost every day. On this day they take

a walk to the shore to collect clams (ammuumajuit) for dinner. Grandmother knows all about finding and

catching clams. They see many things on their walk including a bright orange starfish (aggaujag) and a

sea snail (siupiruq). At home they enjoyed a feast of clams with grandfather (Atattatsiaq). Written in

Inuktitut and English. MULTICULTURAL

Thompson, Holly (2007). The Wakame Gatherers

Shens (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781885008336

Nanami has a grandmother, Baachan, who lives with her family in Japan and a grandmother (gram) who

lives in Maine. Gram comes to visit in Japan. Nanami’s Japanese grandmother shows gram how to

gather wakame (seaweed) to eat. The grandmothers share their experiences during World War II. When

gram returns home she sends tickets for Nanami and Baachan to visit her in Maine. The two

grandmothers enjoy and learn from each other and have the shared love of their granddaughter.

Illustrates values and traditions of different cultures. Shares some World War II history. Japanese words

are used in the text. MULTICULTURAL

Tusa, Tricia (1991). Maebelle’s Suitcase

Aladdin (K-2) $18.80

ISBN 9780689714442

One of the few books where the main character is a centenarian. One hundred and eight year old

Maebelle has a lot of hats and every year she makes a hat for the town’s annual hat contest. With the

help of one of her bird friends, Blinkie, she makes an interesting hat for the contest. Children will find the

story amusing. It illustrates the fact that people are living longer than ever before. Many children today

are expected to live to be centenarians. MULTICULTURAL

Uegaki, Chieri (2014). Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

Kids Can Press (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781894786331

Hannah goes to visit her grandfather, ojichan, in Japan. In Japan, grandfather had been Second Violin in

a great symphony orchestra and had once played for the Imperial Family. Grandfather still enjoyed

playing violin. He played interesting sounds and music for Hannah and would play a lullaby for her to

sleep by. He inspired Hannah to learn to want to play the violin and when she returned home she started

violin lessons. She had not had many lessons when she decided to enter in the school talent show. With

the memories of her grandfather, and knowing that her grandfather would be cheering for her, she

performed at the talent show. A lifespan activity of music, an active grandfather, and a loving

intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Velasquez, Eric (2001). Grandma’s Records

Walker & Company (2-3) $8.99

ISBN 9780802776600

Every summer Eric and his dog Daisy go to live with his grandmother in El Barrio (Spanish Harlem).

Grandmother was originally from Puerto Rico. He and his grandmother have a shared love of music. Eric

would pick records to play and grandmother would always say that she liked his selection. Grandma’s

nephew played in a band and give her tickets so she and Eric to attend the band’s first concert in New

York City. A loving intergenerational relationship and a capable grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Venezia, Mike (2003). Grandma Moses

Scholastic (2-3) $6.95

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

ISBN 970516279138

Part of the biographical Getting To Know the World’s Greatest Artist Series. Portrays the life of Anna

Mary “Grandma” Moses. Anna loved to draw as a child but only began painting when she was about 70

years old. She became one of America’s greatest and best loved artists. Her folk art often portrayed

landscapes with people doing interesting things. Illustrates art as a lifespan activity, growing up and

growing older, and learning, doing, and becoming in old age.

Wahl, Charis (2015). Rosario’s Fig Tree

Groundwood (1-3) $18.95

ISBN 9781554983414

Rosairo is the young girl’s neighbor. He is a “garden magician” and his garden is full of vegetables.

Rosario knows how to ready garden ready and when to put in every plant and seed. He shares his

gardening knowledge with his young neighbor and they tend the garden together. Rosario has friends

who visit and like to offer him gardening advice. The young neighbor is amazed when he knew how to

save a fig tree from one season to another in a climate that is too cold for it in winter. When the young

neighbor tells Rogerio that he is a magician for saving the fig tree he responds “No magic. You just learn

and then you know”. Intergenerational friendship and learning.

Wahl, Jan (2011). The Art Collector

Charlesbridge (K-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781580892704

When Oscar was young his Great-Granny took a piece of paper and drew a chicken and gave Oscar

paper to draw on. Oscar drew a snow storm scene, he was disappointed in his work, but Great-Granny

congratulated him. Ma and Pa framed both Great-Granny’s and Oscar’s pictures. Oscar’s parents took

him to shows and flea markets where artists sold pictures. Oscar bought his first picture for $1 and

continued to collect pictures as he grew up. The years passed, his collection became famous, and a

museum was built for it. At the end of the story Oscar is an older man sitting with a young girl and

encouraging her to draw like his great-grandmother encouraged him. Oscar kept one picture that did not

go to the museum; the drawing of the chicken that his grandmother had done years ago. Illustrates the

lifespan activity of art and the process of growing up and growing older. Few books have a great-

grandparent in the story.

Wellington, Monica (2011). Gabby & Grandma Go Green

Penguin (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 978052422143

When Gabby spends a day with grandma they love doing green projects that are good for the earth.

They sew reusable cloth bags and when the bags are finished they fill them with things to take for

recycling and use the bags for groceries instead of plastic or paper bags. They shop at the farmers

market and go to the library to find “save the Earth” books. The book notes that everyone can be

involved in green projects and that every little bit helps. Tips for going green are given throughout the

book and at the end of the story instructions for sewing a cloth bag, green tips, and some websites for

environmental information for children are given. The book was inspired by the author’s fond memories

of doing crafts with her grandmother.

Wells, Rosemary (2014). Sophie’s Terrible Twos

Viking (PS-K) $16.99

ISBN 9780670785124

Sophie is a mouse and today is her 2

birthday. Unfortunately when she wakes up she does not want to

cooperate with anything that her parents want her to do. Soon the doorbell rings and it was Granny.

Granny notices Sophie’s “Grumpy Street” mood and decides to do something about it. They go for a walk

and stop at a toy shop, but Sophie didn’t like the toys there. Granny had an inspiration, asked if Sophie

would like a saber-toothed tiger suit, and Sophie liked the idea. They went to a costume shop and found

a tiger suit. Sophie loved the suit and the day was saved. Perceptive, active, creative Granny.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Weninger, Brigitte (2011). Happy Birthday, Davy

North-South Books (PS-1) $6.95

ISBN 9780735840263

Davy, a young bunny, is anxiously waiting for his birthday. One big present this year is a visit from

grandpa and granny who brought a whole sack full of “time” with them; time for stories, times for games

and time for anything else Davy wants to do. They teach him games that they played and pranks they

did when they were young, and read him stories.

Wild, Margaret (1998). Our Granny

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (PS-3) $6.95

ISBN 9780395883952

Not all grandmothers are the same. This book celebrates these differences and affirms the love children

have for their special granny.

Williams, Vera (2007). A Chair For My Mother

HarperCollins (PS-2) $6.99

ISBN 9780688040741

A little girl, her mother and grandmother save dimes to buy a comfortable armchair after all their furniture

is lost in a fire. A story of three generations living together and caring for each other.

Caldecott Honor Book

Winter, Jeanette (2014). Mr. Cornell’s Dream Boxes

Beach Lane Books (PS-1) $17.99

ISBN 9781442499003

Mr. Cornell is a neighbor and a friend. He makes shadow boxes from things he finds in the city;

“Wonderlands” covered in glass. He fills the shadow boxes with memories of his life. He invites the

children to see an exhibition of his dream boxes. Intergenerational friendship and an active older adult.

Winter, Jeanette (2011). The Watcher

Schwartz & Wade (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780375867743

A biography of the life of Jane Goodall and quotes in the book are from Goodall’s autobiographies: Africa

is My Blood and My Life With the Chimpanzees. As a young girl Jane loved to watch animals. She would

perch in a tree with her favorite book and read about Tarzan and Dr. Doolittle. As a young woman she

worked to save money to go to Africa and study animals. A famous scientist, Louis Leakey, was looking

for someone to study chimpanzees and asked if Jane would be interested. She traveled to Tanzania

where the chimps lived. For the rest of her life she studied the chimpanzees and learned their behaviors.

Today Jane is an older woman and is an international expert on chimpanzees and an animal rights

advocate. She is a living example of lifelong learning and doing. She established the Roots and Shoots

organization to encourage children’s environmental efforts. Illustrates growing up and growing older, an

active, capable older adult, and a meaningful life.

Wood, Douglas (2014). When Grandpa Says “I Love You”

Simon & Schuster (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 97806898151

Grandpas have many way to say “I love you”. They can show love in many different ways like mussing

up your hair, showing you how to wink, patiently teaching you how to tie your shoes, holding your hand

when you cross the street, giving you a standing ovation, coming to your tea party, trying to learn a new

game that you are teaching him, listening to you practice the piano, telling you stories that make you feel

special, and many other things. There are many ways to say “I love you”. All the grandpa’s are animal

characters. Loving, caring intergenerational learning and relationships.

Wyeth, Sharon Dennis (2013). The Granddaughter Necklace

Scholastic (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780545081252

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

This is story of family kinship and history over many generations and the pride of the author in her

African-American heritage that has ties to Ireland and Cameroon. A necklace is handed down from one

generation to the other along with the stories of those who wore the necklace before. Although there are

no older adults as major characters in the story, the story honors family history and ancestry.

MULTICULTURAL

Yazzie, Seraphine G. (2011). Beauty Beside Me: Stories of My Grandmother’s

Skirts [Shima Sani’ Bitl’aakal Noot’ishi’gii Nizhonigo Nidaashch’aa’go Baa

Hane’]

Salina Bookshelf (2-3) $21.95

ISBN 9781893354074

The young girl lives with her grandmother. She tells about her grandmother’s beautiful skirts and how

each skirt was worn for a different purpose. Grandmother’s yellow skirt was worn while cooking, her

green skirt for planting corn. Other colored skirts were worn for things like weaving, picking herbs, picking

nuts, making cedar beads, going to a Navajo dance, and herding sheep. Grandmother’s skirts swayed

back and forth when she wore them. The grandmother shared her knowledge and wisdom with the girl.

When the girl grows up she decides to have a skirt made with all the colors of her grandmother’s skirts, a

skirt of many colors. This book is dedicated to all grandmothers who raised their grandchildren.

Illustrations show Navajo life, culture and history. Intergenerational love and learning. The story is

written in English and Navajo. There is a version of the book that contains a CD with the book text

spoken in both languages. MULTICULTURAL

Yum, Hyewon (2013). This is Our House

Farrar Straus Giroux (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780374374877

The book tells about the house the young girl lives in and that her family has lived in for generations. The

stories of family members who grew up in the house is shared. Older people are not major characters in

the story but family history is presented. The concept of growing up and growing older is addressed and

can lead to a discussion with children on how they are growing up.

Ziefert, Harriet (2012). Robin, Where Are You?

Blue Apple (PS-K) $17.99

ISBN 9781609051921

Lucy’s grandpa is a bird watcher. He watches birds with his binoculars and Lucy has her own binoculars.

The two of them are out bird watching. Lucy wants to see a robin. They see many birds, but do not see a

robin until the end of the story. Grandpa shows Lucy many different birds. As they see the birds each

bird is named and explained. Active grandfather with an interesting hobby. Bird watching is something

that people can do throughout life. Illustrates a lifespan activity.

Ziefert, Harriet (2012). 40 Uses for a Grandpa

Blue Apple (PS-K) $12.99

ISBN 9781609052768

This book lists 40 reasons why grandpas are the greatest. All of the things listed are positive and enjoyed

by the grandchildren. Grandpas are for playing, e-mailing, mediating, coaching, teaching, storytelling,

and many more things. A nonstereotypic portrayal of active grandpas. Illustrates positive

intergenerational relationships.

Ziefert, Harriet (2011). 41 Uses for a Grandma

Blue Apple (PS-1) $12.99

ISBN 9781609051068

This book lists 41 reasons why grandmas are the greatest. Grandmas are great keepers of secrets,

personal shoppers, dance instructors, e-mail pals, movie companions, and many more things. A

nonstereotypic portrayal of grandmas. Illustrates positive intergenerational relationships.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Ziefert, Harriet (2004). My Friend Grandpa

Blue Apple (PS-1) $12.99

ISBN 9781593540630

In this story the author draws on memories of her vacations with her grandfather in the Catskill

mountains. The story has a young girl, Emma, who goes to visit her grandpa in the country every

summer. Emma loves the big tree on grandpa’s farm. She plays under it, climbs it, and swings from it.

When a storm topples the tree Emma asks grandpa to find a way to save part of the tree. Grandpa went

to work with his chain saw and turned the fallen tree into a tree house for Emma. Active, capable

grandpa. Loving intergenerational relationship.

Zolotow, Charlotte (1992). I Know A Lady

HarperCollins (PS-2) $6.99

ISBN 9780688115197

Children should all know an older person like the one in this book. She works in a garden, takes walks

with her dog, gives out candy apples at Halloween, bakes cookies, and waves to the children as they

pass by her house. She is a woman who makes others feel special, and is someone people always

remember. She is someone the children would like to be someday. The book illustrates how old and

young can enjoy each other, do for each other, and learn from each other.

Zolotow, Charlotte (1972/1985). William's Doll

HarperCollins (PS-3) $17.00/$6.99

ISBN 9780812441604/ISBN 9780064430678

In this classic book William wanted a doll, but instead his father gave him a basketball and a train set.

William still wanted a doll. His grandmother got him a doll so that when he grew up he would know how to

be a good father. Grandmother shows sensitivity, wisdom, and understanding.

Zolotow, Charlotte & Lobel, Anita (2000). This Quiet Lady

HarperCollins (PS-3) $7.99

ISBN 9780688175276

This book portrays the author’s mother from infancy through adulthood. It provides an excellent starting

point for a discussion of growing up and growing older, oral history and family history.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

SOME FAVORITE BOOKS IN PRINT

There are many wonderful books on the booklist. The following are some of my personal

favorites. A number of “favorites” have gone out-of-print. Some favorite Out-of-Print Stories

(OOPS) are given at the end of the OOPS portion of the booklist. New books are in green.

Ackerman, Karen (1988/1992). Song and Dance Man

ISBN 9780394893303/ISBN 9780679819950 $15.96/$6.99

Anholt, Laurence (2014). Pappa Chagall, Tell Us a Story

ISBN 9780764166440 $16.99

Anholt, Laurence (2003). The Magical Garden of Claude Monet

ISBN 9780764155741 $16.99

Arden, Carolyn (2004). Goose Moon

ISBN 9781590780404 $15.95

Aska, Warabe (2006). Tapicero Tap Tap

ISBN 9780887767609 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

Baca, Ana (2011). Tia’s Tamales

ISBN 9780826350268 $16.95

Bair, Sheila (2006). Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock

ISBN 9780807570944 $16.99

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award

Barrett, Mary Bridgid (2011). Shoebox Sam

ISBN 9780310715498 $15.99

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award

Bastianich, Lidia (2014). Lidia’s Egg-Citing Farm Adventure

ISBN 9780762451265 $16.95

Beaty, Andrea (2013). Rosie Revere, Engineer

ISBN 9781419708459 $16.95

Berne, Jennifer (2013). On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein

ISBN 9780818872355 $17.99

Birtha, Becky (2005). Grandmama’s Pride

ISBN 9780807530283 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

Broyles, Ann (2013). Arturo and the Navidad Birds

ISBN 9781455618019 $16.99 MULTICULTURAL

Brumbeau, Jeff (2013). The Quiltmaker’s Gift

ISBN 9780439309103 $17.99

Bunting, Eve (2014). Washday

ISBN 9780823428687 $16.95

Bunting, Eve (2004). My Special Day At Third Street School

ISBN 97801590780752 $15.95

Buzzeo, Toni (2014). My Bibi Always Remembers

ISBN 9781423183583

Byrne, Gayle (2009). Sometimes It’s Grandmas and Grandpas, Not Mommies and Daddies

ISBN 9780789210289 $15.95

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Book Award Winner

Carney, Margaret (1997). At Grandpa’s Sugar Bush

ISBN 9781550746416 $7.95

Caseley, Judith (1994). Dear Annie

ISBN 9780688135751 $6.99

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Churchill, Ginger (2011). Wild Rose’s Weaving

ISBN 9781933718569 $15.99

Clark, Katie (2010). Grandma Drove the Snowplow

ISBN 9780892728510 $16.95

Cooney, Barbara (1982/1985). Miss Rumphius

ISBN 9780670479580/ISBN9780140505399 $16.99/$7.99

Cooper, Ilene (2007). The Golden Rule

ISBN 9780810909601 $16.95

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Book Award Winner

Crews, Donald (1991). Bigmama's

ISBN 9780688158422 $6.99 MULTICULTURAL

Crum, Shutta (2004). My Mountain Song

ISBN9780618159703 $16.00 MULTICULTURAL

deAnda, Diane (2013). The Patchwork Garden/Pedacitos de heurto

ISBN 978155857636 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

de la Pena, Matt (2015) Last Stop on Market Street

ISBN 9780399257742 $16.99

Falwell, Cathryn (2013). Rainbow Stew

ISBN 9781600608476 $17.95 MULTICULTURAL

Fleishman, Paul (2013). The Matchbox Diary

ISBN 9780763646011 $16.99

Flett, Julie (2013). Wild Berries/Pikaci-Minisa

ISBN 9781897476895 $16.95

Flood, Nancy Bo. (2014). The Hogan That Great-Grandfather Built

ISBN 9781893354975 $16.95

Fruisen, Catherine (2000). My Mother’s Pearls

ISBN 9781595720054 $5.95

Fry, Stella (2012). Grandpa’s Garden

ISBN 9781846860539 $7.99

Gilman, Phoebe (1992). Something From Nothing

ISBN 9780590472807 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

Gray, Libba Moore (1993). Miss Tizzy

ISBN9780689818974 $7.99 MULTICULTURAL

Handy, Femida & Carpenter, Carole (2010). Sandy’s Incredible Shrinking Footprint

ISBN 9781897187692 $15.95

Herman, Charlotte (2003). The Memory Cupboard: A Thanksgiving Story

ISBN 9780807550557 $16.95

Hest, Amy (2007). Mr. George Baker

ISBN 9780763633080 $6.99

Hest, Amy (1992). The Purple Coat

ISBN 9780689716348 $6.99

Hoffman, Mary (1991). Amazing Grace

ISBN 9780803710405 $16.99 MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Homan, Lynn & Reilly, Thomas (2002). The Tuskegee Airmen Story

ISBN 9781589800052 $15.95 MULTICULTURAL

Houston, Gloria (1992). My Great-Aunt Arizona

ISBN 9780060226060 $17.99

Hughes, Sarah (2001). My Grandmother Works in a Dress Shop

ISBN 9780516295763 $4.95

Jeffers, Dawn (2006). Vegetable Dreams/Huerto Sonado

ISBN 9780974199290 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

Juster, Norton (2005). The Hello, Goodbye Window

ISBN 9780786809141 $15.95

Karon, Jan (2001). Miss Fannies Hat

ISBN 9780140568127 $6.99

Laminack, Lester (2006). Jake’s 100

Day of School

ISBN 9781561453559 $16.95

MacLachlan, Patricia (1994). All the Places to Love

ISBN 9780060210984 $17.99

Martin, Bill Jr. & Archambault, John (1993/1997). Knots on a Counting Rope

ISBN 9780805054798 $7.95 MULTICULTURAL

Mason, Margaret (2010). These Hands

ISBN 9780547215662 $16.99 MULTICULTURAL

McCain, Becky (1998). Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher

ISBN 9780807530320 $6.99 MULTICULTURAL

Mills, Claudia. Gus and Grandpa Series

Many of the books are now out-of-print

Minnema, Cheryl (2014). Hungry Johnny

ISBN 9780873519267 $17.95

Mitchell, Margaree (2012). When Grandmama Sings

ISBN 9780688175634 $16.99

Mitchell, Margaree (1998). Uncle Jed’s Barbershop

ISBN 9780689819131 $7.99 MULTICULTURAL

Mora, Pat & Martinez, Libby (2014). I Pledge Allegiance

ISBN 9780307931818 $16.99 MULTICULTURAL

Murphy, Claire Rudolph (2011). Marching With Aunt Susan and the Fight for Women’s

Suffrage

Newman, Nanette (2012). What Will You Be, Grandma?

ISBN 9780763660994 $15.99

Nicholson, Caitlin (2008). Niwechihaw/I Help

ISBN97808889981215 $17.95 MULTICULTURAL

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award Winner

Nielsen, Laura (2008). Mrs. Muddle’s Holidays

ISBN 9780374350949 $16.99

Ortega, Cristina (2006). The Eyes of the Weaver/Los Ojus del Tejedor

ISBN 978082633995 $14.95 MULTICULTURAL

Parish, Herman (2011). Amelia Bedelia Makes a Friend

ISBN 978006207516/9780062075154 $16.99/$3.99

Parr, Todd (2011). The Grandma Book

ISBN 9780316070416 $7.00

Parr, Todd (2011). The Grandpa Book

ISBN 9780316070430 $8.00

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Pelligrino, Marjorie (1999). My Grandma’s the Mayor

ISBN 9781557986085 $14.95

Pinson, Isabel (2014). Bubbe’s Belated Bat Mitzvah

ISBN 9781467719506 $7.95 MULTICULTURAL

Polacco, Patricia (2013). The Keeping Quilt

ISBN 97806898200908 $17.95

Purnell, Ann (2006). Christmas Tree Farm

ISBN 9780823418862 $16.95

Quattlebaum, Mary (2013). Jo MacDonald Hiked in the Woods

ISBN 9781584693345

Ransome, James (2012). My Teacher

ISBN 9780803732599 $16.99

Rau, Dana Meachen (2003). Albert Einstein

ISBN 9780756510503 $5.95

Robinson, Sharon (2014). Under the Same Sun

Scholastic Press $17.99

Rookie Biographies

Please refer to this listing under “R” in the booklist. This Scholastic/Children’s Press series has

multiple authors.

Root, Phyllis (2003). The Name Quilt

ISBN 9780374354848 $16.00

Rosen, Michael (2003/2005). Fishing With Dad: Lessons of Love and Lure From Father to Son

ISBN 9781579652862 $9.95 MULTICULTURAL

Rubbino, Salvatore (2014). A Walk in Paris

ISBN 9780763669843 $16.99

Rylant, Cynthia (multiple years) Mr. Putter and Tabby Series

Refer to the listing of recommended books in this series

Rylant, Cynthia. (2002). The Ticky-Tacky Doll

ISBN 9780152010782 $17.00

Say, Allen (2008). Grandfather’s Journey

ISBN 9780547076805 $7.99 MULTICULTURAL

Schotter, Roni (2012). All About Grandma’s

ISBN 978080373143

Schwartz, Howard (2010). Gathering Sparks

ISBN 978596432802 $16.99

Smalls, Irene (2005). My Nana and Me

ISBN 9780316168212 $15.99 MULTICULTURAL

Stanley, George (2013). Wedding Cookies

ISBN 9780307817075 $3.99

(Only available as an ebook)

Stevens, Janet & Crummel, Susan Stevens (2004). Plaidypus Lost

ISBN 9780823415618 $16.95

Stock, Catherine (2001). Gugu’s House

ISBN 9780618003891 $16.00 MULTICULTURAL

Sullivan, Sara (2011). Passing the Music Down

ISBN 9780763637538 $16.99

Taulbert, Clifton (2001/2003). Little Cliff’s First Day of School

ISBN 9780142500828 $6.99 MULTICULTURAL

Thompson, Holly (2007). The Wakame Gatherers

ISBN 9781885008336 $16.95 MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Wahl, Jan (2011). The Art Collector

ISBN 9781580892704 $15.95

Wellington, Monica (2011). Gabby & Grandma Go Green

ISBN 978052422143 $16.99

Winter, Jeanette (2014). Mr. Cornell’s Dream Boxes

ISBN 9781442499003

Winter, Jeanette (2011). The Watcher

ISBN 9780375867743 $17.99

Yazzie, Seraphine G. (2011). Beauty Beside Me: Stories of My Grandmother’s Skirts

[Shima Sani’ Bitl’aakal Noot’ishi’gii Nizhonigo Nidaashch’aa’go Baa Hane’]

ISBN 9781893354074 $21.95 MULTICULTURAL

Ziefert, Harriet (2005). 41 Uses for a Grandma

ISBN9781593540708 $12.95

Ziefert, Harriet (2005). 40 Uses for a Grandpa

ISBN 9781593540760 $12.95

Ziefert, Harriet (2004) My Friend Grandpa

ISBN 9781593540630 $12.99

Zolotow, Charlotte & Lobel, Anita (2000). This Quiet Lady

ISBN 9780688175276 $7.99

Zolotow, Charlotte (1992). I Know A Lady

ISBN 9780688115197 $6.99

Zolotow, Charlotte (1972). William’s Doll

ISBN 9780060270476/ISBN 9780064430678 $15.99/$6.99

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

OOPS (Out-of-Print Stories)

Books that are out-of-print are often available through book vendors, at your local

library, or at a used book store. Favorite OOPS are listed in yellow and are worth

searching for. A listing of favorite OOPS is given at the end of this booklist section.

Alexander, Martha (1992). Where Does the Sky End, Grandpa?

Harcourt Children’s (PS-3) $12.95

ISBN: 9780152956035

A young girl walks with her grandpa and asks him many fascinating questions. Illustrates a

knowledgeable and sensitive grandfather.

Anderson, Lena (1989). Stina

Greenwillow (K-3) $13.95

ISBN 9780688088804

Every summer Stina visits her grandfather at his house by the sea. Each day they get up early, check

grandfather's fishing nets, cook meals, and do enjoyable things together. One night a storm comes and

grandfather helps Stina to understand and learn from the storm. Portrays older people as intelligent and

capable. Shows old and young enjoying each other and learning from each other.

Applet, Kathi (2003). The Best Kind of Gift

HarperCollins (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780688153922

Jory is a rural Appalachian boy. His family is putting together gifts to offer the new preacher. Jory wants

to give the perfect gift, but can’t think of what he can give. Grandpa helps him to come up with the best

kind of gift, a gift from the heart.

Applet, Kathi (2002). Where, Where is Swamp Bear?

HarperCollins (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780688171025

Louisiana black bears used to roam in east Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, but today they are an

endangered species found only in two regions of Louisiana. Pierre and Granpere search for the

Louisiana black bear, but it’s not an easy task to find the bears in the swamps where they live. Granpere

is very knowledgeable about the bear and shares this knowledge with his grandson. Illustrates young

and old enjoying each other and learning from each other, as well as the contemporary topic of

endangered species and their preservation.

Arnold, Marsha (1998). The Chicken Salad Club

Dial (2-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780803719156

Nathaniel Hopkin’s great-grandfather, Henry “Hank” Hopkins, was one hundred years old. Every day

when Nathaniel came home from school he would go next door to listen to Greatpaw’s stories and eat the

chicken salad sandwiches that Greatpaw made. Greatpaw came up with the idea of The Century Club

made up of century old people. The Club did not materialize as planned, but Greatpaw made a new

friend, Sadie Johannsen. Illustrates oral history, story telling, and an active grandfather. This is a good

opportunity to talk to the children about “centenarians”, people who are 100 years old or older. Few

books have a centenarian in them or deal with the issue of companionship in old age. By the year 2050 it

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

is estimated that there will be 1 million centenarians in the United States. Many children today will live to

be 100 years old. Greatpaw and Sadie are interesting and active.

Baker, Sanna (1995). Grandpa is a Flyer

Albert Whitman (PS-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780807530337

When Anna goes to visit her grandparents her mother and grandmother drink coffee together while

Anna’s grandfather takes her flying. The story follows the grandfather’s life from a young boy who

dreamed of flying to becoming a flyer himself. Grandpa has his own plane. He tells Anna that one day

she may be a flyer too. Illustrates shared interests between generations, life planning, and a close

intergenerational relationship.

Balouch, Kristen (2006). Mystery Bottle

Hyperion (PS-1) $15.99

ISBN 9780786809998

A package came early in the morning for Bailey with a bottle inside. When he opened the bottle the wind

inside carried him in a fantasy journey across the sea to Iran the where his grandfather, Baba Bozorg,

lived. They had tea and climbed the tallest mountain. At the top of the mountain the bottle was filled with

wind and love, and was ready to be used again for the boy to visit his grandfather. Loving

intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Barsotti, Joan (1996). Christopher and Grandma on Safari

Barsotti Books (PS-3) $6.95

ISBN 9780964211223

Christopher and grandma go on an African safari. They live in tents and have Masai guides. Christopher

has a Masai friend called Moses and together they search for the rare brown giraffe. Shows an active

grandmother, lifelong learning, travel and adventure, and exciting intergenerational activities.

MULTICULTURAL

Bauer, Marion (1995). When I Go Camping With Grandma

Troll Communications (PS-3) $14.95/$5.95

ISBN 9780815734482/ISBN 9780816734498

A young girl goes tent camping with her grandmother. They hike deep into the woods, pitch a tent, build

a fire, kayak, roast marshmallows and hot dogs, paddle a canoe and go fishing. Shows an active and

capable older woman. Portrays a wonderful and adventuresome intergenerational experience. Illustrates

“lifespan” activities; activities children do now that they can do throughout life.

Beardshaw, Rosalind (2001). Grandma’s Beach

Bloomsbury Children’s Books (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9781582349350

Mom has to go to the office, can’t take Emily to the beach, and Emily goes to visit grandma instead.

Grandma creates an imaginary day at the beach that she and Emily enjoy. Active, capable grandmother.

Beardshaw, Rosalind (2004). Grandpa’s Surprise

Bloomsbury Children’s Books (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9781582349343

Jack won’t let Stanley ride his new tricycle. Grandpa knows Stanley is disappointed and cheers him up

by helping him make a go-cart. Even though Jack wouldn’t share with Stanley. Stanley lets Jack ride on

his go-cart. Brings up the concept of sharing. Grandfather is portrayed as active and capable.

Bercaw, Edna Coe (2000). Halmoni’s Day

Dial Books for Young Readers (2-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780803724440

Jennifer’s grandmother, Halmoni, is visiting from Korea. Halmoni does not speak English and Jennifer is

worried about having her come to Grandparent’s Day at school where each grandparent tells a story.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Halmoni goes to school and her story is translated for the class. Halmoni tells of her father’s service in

the Korean war and how proud she is of her grandchildren. The children love her story and she won the

award for the grandparent that traveled the farthest. MULTICULTURAL

Blegvad, Lenore (1993). Once Upon a Time and Grandma

Elderry Books (PS-2) $14.95

ISBN 9780689505485

Emma and her younger brother Luke are visiting Grandma. Grandma takes them to the house where she

grew up and shares memories of her childhood, when she was a young girl called “Norrie”. The children

have a hard time believing grandma was once young like them. Grandma shares memories of her

childhood and the children start to understand that grandma was young too and that they are growing up

and growing older. Illustrates growing up and growing older, family history, and a caring intergenerational

relationship.

Blos, Joan (1994). The Grandpa Days

Simon & Schuster (PS-1) $8.95/3.95

ISBN 9780671646400

Philip's grandfather makes wonderful things out of wood with his carpenter tools. He shows Philip how to

use each tool, teaches him about different kinds of wood, and together they build a sled. The grandfather

is capable, skillful and knowledgeable. Illustrates shared interests and an enjoyable intergenerational

relationship.

Bogart, Jo Ellen (1999). Jeremiah Learns to Read

Scholastic (1-3) $14.99

ISBN 9788426130662

Jeremiah is an older man who can do many things. He knows how to make a split-rail fence, how to build

a table, and how to grow corn. Although Jeremiah can do all these things, he cannot read. One day he

goes to the schoolhouse where the teacher and children help him to learn to read. He teaches the

children how to do things such as whittle and make bird sounds. Later, Jeremiah reads to his wife from a

book of poems about love. Portrays a reciprocal intergenerational relationship and a warm, loving

relationship with an older couple.

Bond, Ruskin (2003). Cherry Tree

Boyds Mills (1-3) $10.95

ISBN 9781563976216

Rakhi lives in the Himalayan foothills of India with her grandfather. She likes to buy cherries at the

bazaar. Grandfather suggests that she plant one of the cherry seeds in his garden. The tree and Rakhi

grow older together. One year the tree is full of beautiful blossoms and Rakhi is now a young woman.

She and her grandfather sit in the evening silence under the tree and watch the stars come out. Rakhi

comments on how the tree has changed from a small seed into a beautiful tree. "Just like you," her

grandfather replied. This story portrays a loving intergenerational relationship, illustrates growing up and

growing older, and aging as a natural and lifelong process. MULTICULTURAL

Booth, Barbara (1991). Mandy

HarperCollins (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780688103385

Mandy is a young girl who is deaf. Grandmother uses sign language to communicate with her. Mandy

and her grandmother do many things together including baking, dancing, and taking walks. When

grandmother's cherished silver pin is lost Mandy finds it for her. Portrays an active, capable grandmother

and a reciprocal relationship of loving and caring.

Bootman, Colin (2006). Fish for the Grand Lady

Holiday (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780823418985

Two young brothers go fishing and bring the fish back to their grandmother “Grand Lady” to cook. The

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

grandmother is not a major character, but the story is interesting. Shows a loving intergenerational

relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Bornstein, Ruth (1990). A Beautiful Seashell

Harper & Row (PS-1) $12.95

ISBN 9780060205942

A great-grandmother shares memories of her childhood with Rosie, her great-granddaughter. She tells

Rosie about living in another country on a hill near the sea. She tells of the ships, the fog, the seagulls,

and a beautiful seashell that she once found. At the end of the story great-grandmother goes into her

trunk and gives Rosie her treasured seashell. An intergenerational story with and family history.

Bottner, Barbara (1996). Nana Hannah’s Piano

Penguin (PS-1) $15.95

ISBN 9780399226564

Nana Hannah goes to dance class and loves to tango. Nana Hannah is able to get the grandson

interested in playing the piano.

Bowen, Anne (2004). When You Visit Grandma and Grandpa

Lerner (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781575056104

A young girl talks to her baby brother about visits to grandma’s and grandpa’s house where she has lots

of fun and “anytime” is the best time to visit. At grandma’s house they splash through puddles, sing

favorite songs, read, play hide and seek, watch fireflies flickering, play in leaves, carve a jack-o-lantern,

and make snow forts. A warm intergenerational relationship and active grandparents.

Bradford, Karleen (2003). You Can’t Rush a Cat

Orca (PS-2) $7.95

ISBN 9781551432830

Jessica went to visit her grandfather and found that he was putting out a bowl of milk for a wild kitten that

was hiding in his bushes. The milk went away, but the cat did not come in, not even when it rained the

next day. Jessica was not worried because she knew that you can’t rush a cat. Jessica and her

grandfather tame the kitten. When Jessica leaves her grandfather he and the kitten are friends. A loving

intergenerational relationship and illustrates young and old enjoying each other.

Buckley, Helen (2000). Grandfather and I

HarperCollins (PS-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780688175269

A grandfather and granddaughter take long, slow walks together and stop to look at things along the way.

Other people are in a hurry, but they are not and take as long as they like. Back at home they sit in a

chair, rock, read, and talk. Portrays young and old enjoying each other

Bunting, Eve (1999). The Butterfly House

Scholastic (K-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780590848848

A little girl saves a tiny caterpillar from being eaten by a blue jay and her grandfather helps her make a

butterfly house to keep it safe. The caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly and is set free. The

years pass, the girl is now as old as her grandfather was when they found the caterpillar, and something

"amazing" happens each spring. Each spring beautiful butterflies come to her garden. Her neighbors find

this a mystery, but to her it is no mystery. To her the butterflies are saying “This is the girl, but older now.

We visit her each spring to give her back the love she gave to us so long ago.” Illustrates growing up and

growing older, a wise grandfather, a loving intergenerational relationship, and aging as a natural and

lifelong process.

Bryan, Ashley (1989). Turtle Knows Your Name

Simon & Schuster (PS-3) $14.95/$4.95

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

ISBN 9780689315787/ISBN 9780689717282

The story is based on West Indian folklore. Upsilimana Tumpalerado lives with his grandmother in the

West Indies. His grandmother challenges him to find out her real name, and he succeeds. The

grandmother is portrayed as capable and a contributing member of society. MULTICULTURAL

Butterworth, Nick (2003). My Grandpa is Amazing

Candlewick (PS-1) $5.99

ISBN 9780763620578

A story told by a child about an amazing grandfather. Grandpa makes flower arrangements, dances, and

has a motorcycle. He is a lot of fun, and portrayed in nontraditional activities. Shows older people as

interesting and active.

Butterworth, Nick (2003). My Grandma is Wonderful

Candlewick (PS-1) $5.99

ISBN 9780763620516

A large-print story told by a child about a wonderful grandmother who knows all about nature and always

seems to have whatever you need. Grandmother is portrayed as active, sensitive and capable.

Cech, John (1998). My Grandmother's Journey

Tandem Library Books (PS-3) $14.15

ISBN 97870613055451

This story is based on the real life adventures of Feodosia Belevtsov. She survived the Russian

Revolution and World War II and after the war came with her family to America. The reader is introduced

to Feodosia as a young girl and travels with her to the present as she tells her life story to her

granddaughter. The text introduces the reader to interesting events in history, illustrates family history

and oral history, and shows aging as a natural and lifelong process. MULTICULTURAL

Cheng, Andrea (2003). Grandfather Counts

Lee & Low (PS-3) $8.95

ISBN 9781584301585

Helen’s Chinese grandfather, who does not speak English, comes to live with Helen’s family in the United

States. Helen and her grandfather find a way for her to learn Chinese and for him to learn English.

Illustrates young and old enjoying one another and learning from one another. MULTICULTURAL

Chichester-Clark, Ema (2003). Mimi’s Book of Counting

Charlesbridge (PS) $9.95

ISBN 9781570915734

Monkey Mimi and her grandmother spend the day counting objects from one through ten. Portrays a

loving intergenerational relationship and a caring grandmother.

Choi, Sook Nyul (1993). Halmoni and the Picnic

Houghton Mifflin (2-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780395616260

Yunmi’s grandmother, Halmoni, has moved to New York City from Korea to be with Yumni’s family.

Halmoni was a teacher in her country. Yumni’s class is having a picnic and the children would like her

grandmother to be a chaperone. Halmoni does not speak English well and Yumni is worried about this.

Halmoni does chaperone and the picnic is well received by everyone. The traditions of both cultures

blend nicely at the picnic and a good time is had by all. MULTICULTURAL

Chocolate, Debbi (1998). The Piano Man

Walker & Company (K-3) $15.25

ISBN 97808027886463

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

A story about a young African American girl and her grandfather and their shared love of music.

Grandfather’s life history from a young man to the present is told. He played piano for the silent movies,

vaudeville, and ragtime and shares his stories with his granddaughter. A story about shared interests,

growing up and growing older, family history, and oral history. An active and capable older person who is

an integral part of his family. MULTICULTURAL

John Steptoe Award for New Talent

Cohen, Caron (2003). Everything is Different at Nonna’s House

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780618073351

When a young city boy visits his grandparents in the country he finds that everything is different. No taxis

jam the streets and no tall buildings crowd the sky. Instead there are blueberry pancakes to make,

clipping roses, feeding cows, going for walks at night, and riding on the tractor with his grandfather, Pop-

Pop. Sometimes they stay out late at night and sit together on the porch swing as they watch the stars

blink and hear the crickets chirp. There are lots of hugs, kisses, and laughter. Active grandparents.

Intergenerational sharing and caring.

Cruise, Robin (2009). Bartleby Speaks

Farrar, Straus, & Giroux (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780374305147

Bartleby Huddle is a happy child but at the age of three he hasn’t said a single word. His noisy family

tries to make him speak but it is quiet grandfather who finally gets Bartleby to speak.

Crystal, Billy (2006). Grandpa’s Little One

HarperCollins (PS-1) $6.99

ISBN 9780060781750

Actor and comedian Billy Crystal tells about the first year his grandson’s life. Portrays a tender, loving

relationship.

Cumberbatch, Judy (2006). Can You Hear the Sea?

Bloomsbury (PS-1) $15.95

ISBN 9781582347035

Sarah’s grandpa gave her a sea shell. He told her that if she listened carefully she could hear the sea.

Sarah tries to hear the sea but she cannot. She is finally able to hear the sea when grandpa helps her.

Active grandparents and loving intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

D’Arcy Karen (2001). My Grandmother is a Singing Yaya

Scholastic/Orchard (2-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780439293096

Lulu’s Greek grandmother, Yaya, used to sing on stage. When they are alone together Lulu loves to hear

Yaya’s exuberant singing, but she sometimes finds it embarrassing. She worries about bringing Yaya to

her school’s Grandparent’s Day picnic. The picnic-goers enjoy Yaya’s singing and the school principal

asks Yaya to lead the group in a song. Illustrates young and old enjoying each other. MULTICULTURAL

DeGross, Monalisa (1999). Grandaddy’s Street Songs

Hyperion Books for Children (PS-3) $14.99

ISBN 9780786821327

Roddy is an African American boy. He loves to bring out the old family photo album and listen to

grandaddy tell stories about his days as an arabber. Arabbers were fruit and vegetable street vendors in

days gone by. Grandaddy was an arabber in Baltimore and he would take his horse and wagon on the

cobblestone streets and sing out calls to his customers to get their attention. Some of his calls are given

in the book. Illustrates family history, oral history, and an interesting part of American history. A sharing

and caring intergenerational relationship. MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Demas, Corrine (2000). The Disappearing Island

Simon & Schuster (PS-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780689805394

For her 9

birthday Carrie’s grandmother takes her to Billingsgate Island. The island is only visible at low

tide. They travel out to the island on grandmother’s boat, Aphrodite. On the island they find shells and a

piece of the old lighthouse. Grandmother talks to Carrie about the fishing community that once lived on

the island. They have lunch and spend an enjoyable time together. Capable, knowledgeable and

energetic grandmother.

Denslow, Sharon (1990). At Taylor's Place

Bradbury (PS-2) $13.95

ISBN 9780027286854

Tory loves to see Taylor, her neighbor, at his farm. She works with him at his woodshop, and helps him

feed the goats and fill the bird feeders. They complete a weathervane they have been working on and

Taylor comments: "We make a great team." Taylor is independent and capable. The two characters

have a reciprocal relationship of sharing, caring, and learning.

DiSalvo, DyAnne (2002). Spaghetti Park

Holiday House (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780234168820

Angelo’s neighborhood park used to be a great place but now many people in the neighborhood avoid it

because it is run down, has graffiti, and a group of troublemakers hang out there. Angelo and his

grandfather like to go to the park and play “bocce”, an Italian bowling game. They join a neighborhood

group to clean up the park. Many of the people who help to clean up the park are older adults. Once the

park is cleaned up the troublemakers mess it up again, but everyone once more everyone helps to make

the park a good place to be. MULTICULTURAL

DiSalvo, DyAnne (1997). Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen

SanVal/HarperCollins (K-3) $6.99

ISBN 9780688152857

A young boy stays with his Uncle Willie after school. Uncle Willie is a volunteer at a local soup kitchen for

people who are homeless. One day when Willie is out of school he helps his uncle at the soup kitchen.

Illustrates the community service and volunteer work that many older adults are involved in. The older

adult is a role model for the young boy. Deals with the contemporary issues of homelessness and

hunger. MULTICULTURAL

Dorros, Arthur (1999). Isla

Penguin (PS-1) $6.99

ISBN 9780140565058

A young girl, Rosalba, and her grandmother take an imaginary trip to the Caribbean island where her

grandmother grew up. A glossary of Spanish words in included. Presents family history and shows old

and young enjoying each other. MULTICULTURAL

Douglass, Barbara (1982). Good as New

HarperCollins (PS-3) $15.00

ISBN 9780688419837

Grady's grandfather is known for his ability to fix just about anything. When a young cousin ruins Grady's

prize teddy bear, grandfather does a wonderful job of fixing it. He takes it apart, sews it back together

and fixes it "good as new!" Portrays the grandfather as intelligent, creative, and sensitive to the needs of

the child. The grandfather does some nontraditional activities for a grandfather like sewing. A loving

intergenerational relationship is portrayed.

Dunbar, James (1999). When I Was Young

Carolrhoda Books (PS-3) $15.95

ISBN 9781575053592

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Seven year old Josh learns about family history from his grandmother and the family photo album.

Grandma tells about her life as a young girl, her grandparents and great-grandparents. An interesting

story for children to see how things used to be. Good examples of family history and oral history.

Children can be encouraged to explore their own family histories. Useful information in the back of the

book talks about what life was life from the 1690s to present. Illustrates growing up and growing older.

Duncan, Alice (1999). Miss Viola and Uncle Jed Lee

Atheneum (PS-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780689804762

Miss Viola and Uncle Jed Lee are neighbors on Joubert Street. A young boy, Bradley, lives in a house

between the two. Bradley and Uncle Jed Lee play checkers and do things together. One day Uncle Jed

Lee mentions that he would like to make a friend of Miss Viola. How Bradley brings the two of them

together is fun and interesting. Portrays intergenerational friendship. This is one of the few stories where

companionship and dating with older adults is addressed+

English, Karen (1996). Big Wind Coming

Albert Whitman (PS-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780807507261

Grandpa alerts the family that a big storm is coming. The children take the animals to the barn and help

board up the windows. Grandma and Grandpa are the ones who take charge of preparations for the

storm. Capable, active grandparents. MULTICULTURAL

English, Karen (2005). The Baby on the Way

Farrar (213) $16.00

ISBN 9780374373610

Jamal asks grandma if she was ever a baby and a little girl. Grandma tells him that she was both a baby

and a little girl. Grandma tells him the story of her birth and includes family history. MULTICULTURAL

Ford, Juwanda (1996). Kenya’s Family Reunion

Scholastic (PS-2) $2.99

ISBN 9780590537360

Kenya is a young African American girl. She is excited about the annual family reunion at her

grandfather’s farmhouse. Grandfather built the farmhouse, and this year the farmhouse will be 50 years

old. Kenya and her family have a special surprise for grandpa–they made him a miniature of the

farmhouse and barn. Illustrates a loving, caring family and an active grandparent. MULTICULTURAL

Fruisen, Catherine (2004). My Mother’s Pearls

Star Bright Books (PS-2) $5.95

ISBN 9781595720054

A young girl enjoys helping her mother get dressed up and especially loves the pearls that have been in

the family since her great-great-great-great-great grandmother was given them in 1788. A story that

illustrates family history and oral history.

Goldman, Susan (1976). Grandma Is Somebody Special

Albert Whitman (PS-2) $10.95

ISBN 9780807530344

A young girl enjoys visiting her grandmother in a tall apartment building in a big city. The grandmother

demonstrates a wide range of activities--she works, goes to school, buys cookies at the bakery, and does

some very interesting things with her granddaughter. The special things they do together make this a

very enjoyable book. Grandmother is engaged in activities such as school and work that are often not

portrayed in early children’s literature.

Greene, Rhonda (2003). At Grandma’s

Holt (PS) $15.95

ISBN 9780805063360

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

A young dog always has a lot to do at grandma’s house. He sleeps in a big bed, eats cinnamon bread,

rides with grandma in a canoe, goes for walks, has a picnic lunch, works in the garden, and mends a

fence. At bedtime grandma reads him and book and puts him to bed. Shows young and old enjoying

each other and can lead into a discussion of what the children do with their grandparents or older friends.

Grifalconi, Ann (2007). Ain’t Nobody a Stranger to Me

Hyperion (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780786818570

The story starts with a woman telling how, as a young girl she went with her grandfather to his apple

orchard. As she and her grandfather went through the town he waved to everyone and said hello. The

grandfather did not know all the people by name and tells the girl, “Ain’t nobody a stranger to me”. The

grandfather talks to the girl about his escape from slavery on the Underground Railroad and the help and

friendship he received along the way. MULTICULTURAL

Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) Children’s Book Award (2010)

Griffith, Helen (1995). Grandaddy’s Stars

Greenwillow (1-3) $15.00

ISBN 9780688136543

Grandaddy leaves his Georgia farm with his mule and chickens to come visit Janetta in the city. Janetta

had made a list of important things to show him and grandaddy loved all of them. Grandaddy showed

Janetta something that they both shared, even when they were apart, the stars in the sky. After

grandaddy leaves when he and Janetta look at the stars it is like they are still together. Illustrates shared

interests and a loving, caring relationship between grandparent and grandchild. MULTICULTURAL

Griffith, Helen (1993). Grandaddy and Janetta

Harper Collins (K-3) $15.00

ISBN 978068817114

This is Janetta’s first visit to Grandaddy’s farm after not seeing him for a year and she worries that he will

remember her. He does remember her. They have a wonderful time as they enjoy music together,

gardening, and telling stories. MULTICULTURAL

Griffith, Helen (1987). Grandaddy's Place

Harper Trophy (PS-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780688062545

Janetta is a "city girl," and her first visit to her grandfather's farm was one of mixed emotions. At first she

was not sure that she liked her granddaddy, his farm or the animals. She didn't like the wasp's nest under

the roof, or the chickens that made scary noises, the mean-looking cat or the "giant" mule. Grandfather

tells stories and finds ways to help her learn to love and understand the farm. MULTICULTURAL

Hanson, Warren (2006). Grandpa Has a Great Big Face

HarperCollins (PS-K) $16.99

ISBN 9780060787769

Grandpa’s face is big along with his feet and smile. The young grandson thinks that what is biggest of all

is grandpa’s loving heart. Loving intergenerational relationship.

Hawxhurst, Joan (1996). Bubbe and Gram. My Two Grandmothers

Dovetail Publishing (PS-2) $12.95

ISBN 9780965128421

A story about a child who learns from her two grandmothers. Bubbe, her Jewish grandmother, tells her

stories about Moses, lights Sabbath candles, and shares stories of Passover. Gram, her Christian

grandmother, dyes Easter eggs, recites the Lord’s Prayer, and tells the Nativity story. Shows respect for

different religions and traditions. An interesting story of two active and loving grandmothers.

MULTICULTURAL

Helldorfer, M. C. (2004). Got to Dance

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Random House Children’s (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780385908658

A little girl has the summertime blues and wants to dance. Grandpa makes a wonderful dancing

companion. Besides the dancing you see Grandpa flipping pancakes, playing cards, and going to the

zoo. Intergenerational story with an active grandparent.

Hennessy, B. G. (1994). When You Were Just a Little Girl

Puffin (PS-3) $4.99

ISBN 978014054172-1

A granddaughter asks her grandmother to tell her about life when she was a little girl. Children can be

encouraged to ask older family members and friends the same thing. Helps to instill a sense of history

and family history.

Herrera, Juan Felipe (2002). Grandma and Me at the Flea/Los Meros Meros

Remateros

Children’s Book Press (2-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780892391714

Every Sunday Juanito and his grandmother sell clothes at a California flea market booth. Juanito spends

a lot of time at the many booths. Grandmother is active and working. Bilingual text in English and

Spanish. MULTICULTURAL

Hest, Amy (1988). The Crack-of-Dawn Walkers

Puffin (PS-2) $11.95

ISBN 9780140508291

Sadie and her brother take turns going on walks with their grandfather on Sunday morning. Sadie

delights in this special time with her grandfather. They talk about the "old country," stop at a bake shop,

and sip cocoa. Later, as others are rising from their beds they notice the two very different size sets of

tracks left by the "crack-of-dawn" walkers. Illustrates a caring intergenerational relationship and old and

young enjoying each other.

Hest, Amy (1992). The Go-Between

Simon & Schuster (K-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780027436327

A story about two older people who are fond of each other and marry. The granddaughter plays the "go

between" role in the relationship. Not many stories present older people as dating and marrying. A story

about the need for companionship, love, and caring throughout life.

Hest, Amy (1993). Nana’s Birthday Party

HarperCollins (PS-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780688074975

Nana lives in New York City and Maggie enjoys visiting her with her cousins. They enjoy the family

photos that Nana shares with them. “Remember,” Nana says, “every picture tells a story.” Every year

Nana puts on a birthday party for herself with the same rules tacked to the door: no jeans; no gum; no

presents, except for the ones you make yourself; no fighting and no whining. Maggie and her cousin

Brette plan birthday presents for Nana. Good opportunity for discussion of family history. Active

grandmother who is an integral part of the family.

Hest, Amy (1998). Gabby Growing Up

Simon & Schuster (PS-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780689805738

It is grandpa’s birthday and that means a trip to the city for Gabby and her mother. On the way they

shop, have lunch and Gabby gets a new haircut. They meet grandpa and go ice skating. Gabby gives

grandpa the bright orange mittens that she knit for his birthday. Gabby and grandpa dance together on

the ice. Mother and the skaters have a surprise birthday cake for grandpa and everyone sings happy

birthday to him. Portrays an active, caring grandfather.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Hest, Amy (2001). The Friday Nights of Nana

Candlewick (PS-2) $15.99

ISBN 9780763606589

Friday nights with Nana begin early on Friday morning. This Friday a young Jewish girl has off school

and she and her Nana start preparing for the Sabbath. Nana washes the good china, irons the lace

tablecloth, fixes the Sabbath dress, and bakes. Nana and the granddaughter go for a walk and eat

sandwiches in the park. They look for violet-colored flowers. When they return to Nana’s they finish

preparing for the Sabbath. MULTICULTURAL

Hest, Amy (2002). Make the Team, Baby Duck!

Candlewick (PS-1) $16.99

ISBN 978073615413

Baby Duck wants to join the swim team but she is scared to go in the water. Grandpa knows what to say

to get her into the water and on the team. Wise and caring Grandpa.

Hilton, Nette (2000/1992). The Long Red Scarf

Carolrhoda Books/Lerner Publishing (PS-2) $18.95/

ISBN 9780876143995/ISBN 9780876145616

Grandfather’s friend Jake has a long blue scarf that helps to keep him warm when they go fishing.

Grandfather likes Jake's scarf and decides to ask Great Aunt Maude to knit him one. Aunt Maude is

wonderful at farming and cleaning fish, but she can't knit a scarf. Grandfather asks Jake where he got his

scarf and discovers that Jake knit it himself. Grandfather learns to knit and makes himself a scarf. He

enjoys knitting so much he knits things for others in the family. Portrays the grandfather as independent,

active and creative, and engaged in a rather nontraditional activity for grandfathers of “knitting”.

Hines, Anna (1996). Miss Emma’s Wild Garden

Greenwillow (PS-3) $14.89

ISBN 9780688146937

Miss Emma is a neighbor who lets her garden grow any way it wants. Her garden has dandelions, foam

wild blue phlox, and even wild animals. Miss Emma shares all kinds of wonderful things that happen in

the garden to her young friend like deer eating flower buds, rabbits nibbling the wild ginger, a woodchuck

and her baby eating sweet cicely, birds nesting, a lizard sunning on a rock, butterflies, bees sipping

blossom nectar and a toad hiding in the forget-me-nots beside the creek. The young girl values her

friendship with Miss Emma. Everyone wants a friend like Miss Emma and wants to be like her when they

are older. Illustrates intergenerational friendship and an active, independent older adult.

Hines, Anna (1998). Grandma Gets Grumpy

Tandem (PS-1) $15.25

ISBN 9780833547156

Lassen and her cousins spend the night at grandmother's house. Grandma has a box full of toys and a

drawer full of clothes for them to play with. When the cousins get a little wild “grandma gets grumpy”.

The book ends with the children knowing that even though grandma got grumpy she loves them. Most

children would agree they would get grumpy like grandma did. This book can be used to help show

children how young and old share the same types of feelings and are similar in many ways.

Hines, Anna (2003). My Grandma is Coming to Town

Candlewick (PS-1) $13.99

ISBN 9780763612375

Grandma lives far away but she and her grandson Albert have a long-distance relationship through phone

calls, photographs, letters and presents. Grandma comes for a visit but Albert is suddenly shy and won’t

talk to her. Grandma has a plan and soon Albert overcomes his shyness. Warm intergenerational

relationship and a sensitive, imaginative grandmother.

Hoberman, Mary Ann (2007). I’m Going to Grandma’s

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Houghton Miffllin Harcourt (PS-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780152165925

A young granddaughter is going to her grandparents to spend the night. Grandpa is an artist and helps

her to draw. He plays music for her on his musical saw. Grandma likes dancing, has a whole closet of

dress-up clothes and has planted a garden where everything grows. When it gets time to go to bed

Grandma tells the girl a story of when she spent the night at her grandmothers, the granddaughter’s

great-great grandmother. The great-great grandmother made a quilt that the girl now uses. Active

grandparents, a story with family history, and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Hoffman, Mary (2011). Grace at Christmas

Dial (1-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780803735774

Grace loved Christmas and going to church with Ma and Nana. As long as Grace could remember it had

been just her, Ma, and Nana at Christmas but this year they are going to have company. Grace was not

happy about having company but Nana told her that Christmas was a time for families. Nana helps

Grace understand and accept the company. Grace admits that this was the best Christmas ever.

Holabird, Katharine (2004). Angelina, Star of the Show

Pleasant Company (1-3) $12.95

ISBN 9781584859031

Angelina is a young mouse and she can hardly wait to dance in the Mouseland Dance Festival.

Angelina’s grandparents are taking her to the festival on their boat, The Jolly Rat. Angelina practices her

dancing so much on the boat that she forgets to do some things and gets into some problems.

Grandparents are shown as active and capable. Grandmother comes to the rescue when Angelina ruins

her dance costume. Grandparents are portrayed as active and capable.

Howard, Elizabeth (2001). Lulu’s Birthday

Greenwillow (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780688159443

Lulu suggests that she and her grandchildren, Laurie and Matthew, celebrate her birthday before they

leave for the summer. They talk about many of the things they have done together. The children have a

birthday surprise that is a wonderful celebration for their grandmother. Illustrates young and old enjoying

each other and loving family relationships. MULTICULTURAL

Hughes, Sarah (2001). My Grandmother Works in a Dress Shop

Scholastic (PS-1) $4.95

ISBN 9780516295763

Actual photos of a grandmother and granddaughter. The grandmother works in a dress shop and makes

a beautiful dress for her young granddaughter. Loving intergenerational relationship.

Hurd, Edith (1982). I Dance in My Red Pajamas

HarperCollins (1-3) $14.04

ISBN 9780060226992

Jenny loves her visits with her grandparents. Her parents tell her that grandma and grandpa want peace,

quiet, and tranquility, but Jenny knows differently. No one is better at jumping and stomping than

grandfather--especially when he dances with Jenny in her red pajamas. Grandmother is a wonderful

cook and knows more about cats than anyone. When grandfather tucks her into bed he tells Jenny: "Oh

what a beautiful, lovely, noisy day". Illustrates similarities between young and old, older people are

portrayed as active and vibrant and as integral members of the family.

Hutchins, Pat (2006). Bumpety Bump

Greenwillow (PS-1) $16.89

ISBN 9780060560003

Grandpa pushes his young grandson in a wheelbarrow as they go around the farm and do different

things. Grandpa helps the boy dig potatoes and pick tomatoes, lettuce, and berries. An active

grandfather. Shows young and old enjoying each other.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Isadora, Rachel (2005). Luke Goes to Bat

Putnam (1-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780399236044

In 1950s Brooklyn a young African American boy, Luke, really wants to play stickball with his older

brother and the other kids. One day Luke gets a chance to play, but he strikes out, and is sure the other

kids would not let him play again. Jackie Robinson of the Brooklyn Dodgers was Luke’s favorite baseball

player. Luke’s Grandma takes him to see Jackie Robinson play at Ebbets Field. His Grandma tells him

that he can’t give up and he doesn’t. Grandmother is supportive and wise. MULTICULTURAL

Jacobs, Laurie (2005). A Box of Candles

Boyds Mills Press (2-3) $17.95

ISBN 9781590781692

When Ruthie’s Grandma Gussie starts to have a friendship with Mr. Adler, Ruthie is not sure how well she

likes not getting all of grandma’s attention. She thinks of many reasons not to like Mr. Adler. As time

goes by Mr. Adler helps Ruthie with a Passover song, helps her learn how to ride a bike and ice skate,

and takes her and grandma fishing. Ruthie and Mr. Adler become friends. Mr. Adler asks grandma to

marry him and Ruthie will now have a new Grandpa. The book includes a glossary of terms and

explanations of Jewish customs and traditions and tells of Jewish history. One of the few books that

illustrates companionship, dating and marriage as an older adult. MULTICULTURAL

James, Simon (2002). The Birdwatchers

Candlewick (PS-1) $15.99

ISBN 9780736167611

Granddad is a birdwatcher, makes pictures of the birds, and tells his young granddaughter, Jess,

interesting bird watching stories. Jess joins her grandfather on a bird watching trek and a good time is

had by all.

Johnson, Angela (1990). When I Am Old With You

Scholastic [Orchard Books] (PS-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780531058848

A young African American girl shares enjoyable times with her grandfather and talks about what they will

do "When I am old with you". The story is full of love and family history. It can help children to see that

they too will someday be old, and helps them to think of activities they would like to do when they are

older. MULTICULTURAL

Joosse, Barbara (2001). A Houseful of Christmas

Henry Holt (PS-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780805063912

Every Christmas all the relatives go to Granny’s house. Weeks ahead of the visit Granny starts to bake,

decorate and wrap packages. On Christmas day she prepares a wonderful dinner and waits for her

guests to arrive. Granny plays Christmas carols on the accordion and everyone sings along. A snow

storm comes and Granny gets out blankets and pillows so everyone can sleep over. An active, capable

grandmother who is an integral part of her family.

Joosee, Barbara (2008). Grandma Calls Me Beautiful

Chronicle (K-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780811858151

A Hawaiian grandmother tells her granddaughter the story of her birth and her name: “Beautiful”. Loving

intergenerational relationship. Shows shared bond between grandmother and grandchild.

MULTICULTURAL

Keller, Holly (1994). Grandfather’s Dream

Greenwillow (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780688123390

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

The story takes place in Vietnam. The war in Vietnam was over but the cranes had not returned.

Grandfather had a dream that the cranes would return and shares this dream with his grandson, Nam.

Grandfather likes to tell Nam stories, like the one about the otters that he trained to catch fish as a boy.

He and Nam continue to look for the cranes return and the cranes do return. The grandfather is wise and

capable and shares a message about the importance of preserving the global environment.

MULTICULTURAL

Kesselman, Wendy (1993). Emma

Harper Collins (PS-3) $4.95

ISBN 9780064430777

At age 72 years old, Emma begins to paint. At first she hides her painting from her family, but when the

family comes for a surprise visit Emma does not have time to put the paintings away. The family loved

her paintings. Children enjoy drawing and painting and this book helps them to see how these can be

activities when they are older. Illustrates the creativity of older people, lifelong learning, similarities

between young and old, and lifespan activities.

Kessler, Christina (2000). My Great-Grandmother’s Gourd

Scholastic (PS-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780531332849

When a new water pump comes to her Sudanese village in East Africa, Fatima is pleased. However, her

grandmother decides to still save water the old way by filling their baobab tree with rain for the dry

season. For centuries Fatima’s people have been using these trees as giant water gourds to store water.

A broken pump and water shortage finds the village mixing the old ways with the new. A wise, active

grandmother. Illustrates the knowledge of older adults. Story based on true events. MULTICULTURAL

Kinsey-Warnock, Natalie (2005). Nora’s Ark

HarperCollins (2-3) $17.99

ISBN 9780688172442

This story is based on the real-life event of the Vermont Flood of 1927. Nora’s grandpa decided to build

grandma a new house high on a hill. Just as the house is finished it started to rain and rained so much

that it caused a flood. The family, neighbors and the farm animals go to the new house on the hill to

escape the flood. With all the animals there the new house becomes “Nora’s Ark”. Shows active and

capable grandparents and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Kovalski, Maryann (1993). Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Scholastic (PS-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780590456388

Jenny and Joanna get their grandma to take them to a baseball game. At the game the girl’s balloon flies

away. Grandma rescues both the balloon and the ballgame.

Krebs, Laurie (2002). The Beeman

National (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780792272243

Grandfather is known in town as the beekeeper. He has special beekeeper equipment. He teaches his

young granddaughter about the different bees in the hive and how to make honey. Intergenerational

learning. A knowledgeable and active grandfather.

Lasky, Kathryn (1988). Sea Swan

MacMillan (1-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780027517002

Elzibah Swan lived in the same house on Boston's Beacon Hill all her life. She keeps active and busy

doing things including going to the library and symphony concerts, gardening, and enjoying her

grandchildren. On her seventy-fifth birthday she wants to do something "new," and decides to learn how

to swim. Elzibah takes swimming lessons, snorkeling, and water ballet. She loves swimming so much

that she designs and with the help of her friends, builds house on the seashore. Elzibah calls her new

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

house "Sea Swan." The story integrates many generations into one text and illustrates how people can

learn and do throughout life, “lifelong learning”.

Lyons, Marty (1997). Catching the Fire. Phillip Simmons, Blacksmith

Houghton Mifflin (1-3) $17.00

ISBN9780395720332

This book tells the story of Phillip Simmons, an African American blacksmith. Mr. Simmons was born on

June 9, 1912 and lived in the Charleston, South Carolina area. He became a blacksmith at the age of 13.

He became famous for his ornamental wrought iron creations. Although he “officially” retired in 1987 he

continued to teach and create beautiful artwork throughout his life. A story based on a productive,

meaningful life. A role model for growing up growing older, and making a difference in the world.

MULTICULTURAL

Mahy, Margaret (1994). The Rattlebang Picnic

Puffin (2-3) $NA

ISBN 9780803713185

Granny McTavish is known for loving her grandchildren and her terrible cooking. Granny goes with the

family on a trip to the tip top of Mount Fogg. On the trip, Granny’s tough pizza comes in handy when the

car loses a tire.

Major, Kevin (2005). Aunt Olga’s Christmas Postcards

Groundwood (PS-2) $10.00

ISBN 9780888995933

Aunt Olga is ninety-five and has collected postcards all her life. She writes poetry, does tai chi, bakes

gingerbread, speaks a number of languages, and plans to start dancing again. Her first job long ago was

writing verses for Christmas postcards and she has a wonderful collection of Christmas postcards from all

around the world. She shares her postcards and Christmas memories with her niece, Anna. Aunt Olga

teaches Anna how to write her own Christmas verses. Illustrates a long, active, and productive life. Many

of today’s children will live into their 80s, 90s and beyond. A loving intergenerational relationship.

Martin, Bill, Hr. & Sampson, Michael (2003). Little Granny Quarterback

Boyds Mills (PS-1) $15.95

ISBN 9781563979309

Watching football on television Granny Whiteoak recalls her glory days as was the first female

quarterback to win the Heisman trophy. She looks at the wall where her trophies and newspaper

clippings are hung. In this fantasy story Granny quarterbacks again. Although this is a fantasy, it can

lead into a discussion of older people who participate in sports and Senior Olympics.

Martin, Jacqueline Briggs (1992/1997). Good Times on Grandfather Mountain

Scholastic (PS-1) $15.95/6.95

ISBN 9780531059777/ISBN 97805310708751

Washburn is an older man who always looks on the bright side of things. He is a fine fiddler and whittler.

He can whittle a fiddle out of a log or a spider out of a stick of wood. During the story many mishaps

occur including Washburn’s cow, pigs, and chickens running off. Amazingly, everything gets back to

normal. Young children delight in hearing all the things that happened to Washburn. Shows an active,

capable older person with a positive outlook on life.

Martin, Jacqueline Briggs (2003). The Water Gift and the Pig of the Pig

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (K-3) $17.00

ISBN 9780618074365

For many centuries there have been people who could locate underground water by walking across the

ground holding a Y-shaped branch, a “divining rod”. Isabel’s grandfather is one of those people who has

the water gift. Grandfather was a sea captain and he kept a pig that even went around Cape Horn with

him. Grandmother says that the pig thinks she is one of the family. When the pig gets lost Isabel

convinces her Grandfather to help her find him. Active, capable and caring grandparents.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Blue Ribbon Picture Books Award

Mauner, Claudia & Smalley, Elisa (2006). Zoe Sophia in New York: The Mystery of

the Pink Phoenix Papers

Chronicle (2-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780811848770

Zoe Sophia’s favorite person, her Great-Aunt Dorothy, comes to visit her in New York. Great-Aunt

Dorothy stays in Greenwich Village, is a famous writer, and is doing research for a new book. She and

Zoe hunt for a lost journal, The Pink Phoenix Papers. They visit interesting places in New York and find

clues. They dine at a restaurant where Great-Aunt Dorothy’s friend, Mr. Irving, plays the piano. Their

clues lead them to a second-hand book shop where Zoe finds a copy of the journal. Active older adult.

Matze, Claire (1999). The Stars in My Geddoh’s Sky

Albert Whitman (K-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780807553329

One summer an Arab American boys grandfather “Geddoh” comes to visit him. Geddoh has brought a

camel saddle for his grandson and helps the boy to learn about his Arab heritage. Geddoh talks to him

about the mosque where he prays. They do many fun activities together and Geddoh shows his

grandson what his name looks like in Arabic. A loving, active grandfather. MULTICULTURAL

May, Kathy (2000). Molasses Man

Holiday House (PS-2) $16.95

ISBN 9780823414383

Grandpa decides it is time to make molasses and his family pitches in to help. Everyone knows that

Grandpa is the “Molasses Man” and makes the best molasses in his community. Grandparents are

portrayed as capable and an integral part of the family. Presents family traditions of this rural African-

American family. Caring intergenerational relationships. MULTICULTURAL

Mayer, Mercer (2003). Grandma’s Garden

San Val/Carson-Dellosa (K-1) $3.95

Little Critter Series

ISBN 9781577688464

Little Critter and Little Sister help grandmother plant a vegetable garden.

McCaughrean, Geraldine (2002). My Grandmother’s Clock

Clarion (K-3) $15.00

ISBN9780618216956

Grandmother has a clock that does not work, but she does not need a clock. She has other ways to tell

time and to measure things. She shares these things with her granddaughter. Grandmother says that a

lifetime, can be measured in all kinds of ways, such as birthdays and friends. A loving intergenerational

relationship and an active, wise, and capable grandmother.

McCleery, Patsy (1988). The Turtle Lady

Texas Geographic Interests (1-3) $6.95

ISBN 9780915101030

This is the true, biographical story of Ila Loetscher known as "The Turtle Lady". Mrs. Loetscher lived on

South Padre Island in Texas. She took care of sick and injured sea turtles and helped to save them from

extinction. She also taught people about the endangered sea turtles. Mrs. Loetscher is a legend in her

own time. Her story helps to show children that older people are active in their communities and

contributing members of society. Brings up environmental issues and the need to protect and preserve

what we cannot create.

McCourt, Lisa (2008). Granny’s Dragon

Dutton Juvenile Books (2-3) $12.99

ISBN 9780525474630

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

A young granddaughter is staying with Granny and it is now time for bed. The granddaughter does not

want to go to bed because she is sure that there is a scary monster in her room. The grandmother tells

an interesting story about her own dragon that will protect the little girl from the scary dragon.

McLeod, Elaine (2002). Lessons from Mother Earth

Groundwood (K-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780888993120

Tess, a young Native American girl, has visited her grandmother many times but had never been aware

of her garden. Grandma teaches her that all nature can be a garden. As they visit Grandma’s garden

Tess learns about the plants and how to take care of them. MULTICULTURAL

McElroy, Lisa. Meet My Grandmother Series

Milbrook Press (2-3)

This series profiles famous grandmothers as seen through the eyes of their grandchildren. At the end of

each book the author gives the children tips on how to achieve what the grandmothers did. The author’s

use of actual older adults is an excellent way for children to see the real achievements that older adults

have made.

Meet My Grandmother. She’s a Children’s Book Author (2001). ISBN 9780761319726 $22.60

Meet My Grandmother. She’s a Deep Sea Explorer (2000). ISBN 9780761317203 $22.60

Meet My Grandmother. She’s a United States Senator (2000). ISBN 9780761317210 $22.60

Meet My Grandmother. She’s a Supreme Court Justice (2000). ISBN 9780761313861 $7.95

Mills, Claudia. Gus and Grandpa Series

Farrar, Straus & Giroux (K-3)

This excellent series shows a loving and warm intergenerational relationship and a grandfather who is

capable, caring, sensitive, and has good advice. Unfortunately many of the books in the series are out-

of-print. Some recommended OOPS follow:

Gus and Grandpa (1999). ISBN 9780374428471 $6.95

Gus and Grandpa Show and Tell (2000). ISBN 9780374428488 $6.95

Gus and Grandpa Ride the Train (2000). ISBN 9780374428136 $5.95

Gus and Grandpa and the Christmas Cookies (2000). ISBN 9780374428150 $5.95

Gus and Grandpa and the Two Wheeled Bike (2001). ISBN 9780374428167 $5.95 Gus and

Grandpa and the Halloween Costume (2002). ISBN 9780374328160 $5.95

Gus and Grandpa Go Fishing (2003). ISBN 9780374328153 $5.95

Gus and Grandpa and the Piano Lesson (2004). ISBN 9780374428150 $15.00

Mitchell, Margaree (2003). Grandaddy’s Gift

Tandem Library (K-3) $12.10

ISBN 9780606134491

A young African American girl grew up with her grandparents on a farm in Mississippi. The girl loves and

respects her grandaddy. She follows him everywhere and is nicknamed “Little Joe.” Grandaddy teaches

her the importance of education, the right to vote, and voting. He shows her the importance of standing

up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Presents the problems her grandfather had

years ago when he tried to register to vote. Shows an active, capable older person who is respected by

his family and community. Addresses some significant points in American history and civil rights.

MULTICULTURAL

Mobin-Uddin, Asma (2007). The Best Eid Ever

Boyds Mills Press (K-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781590784310

Aneesa spends the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha with her grandmother. Her grandmother gave her a gift

of beautiful clothes for the holiday and fixed her favorite food. When they meet two young girls who need

food and clothing Aneesa and the grandmother share with them. MULTICULTURAL

Moore, Elaine (1994). Grandma’s Garden

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Lothrup, Lee and Shephard (PS-3) $15.00

ISBN 9780688086947

Kim goes to her grandmothers in the spring and helps grandma “wake her garden.” Grandma supervises

putting in the garden and teaches Kim about gardening. They plant together, make a scarecrow, cuddle

together during a storm, and fly kites. Grandma is portrayed as fun to be with active and knowledgeable.

Illustrates intergenerational learning.

Moore, Floyd (1995). I Gave Thomas Edison My Sandwich

Albert Whitman (2-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780807535042

Floyd Thompson was born in 1908 in Iron City, Tennessee. When he was a little boy celebrity trains

often came to town. A train came to his town with President Taft, Henry Ford and Thomas Edison on it.

In real life Floyd actually talked to Thomas Edison, and in the story he gives him his sandwich. An

interesting story that illustrates past history, famous older people, and growing up and growing older.

Can lead into a discussion of older leaders and famous older people.

Nozick, Betsy (2001). Grandma and Me and Her Secret Recipe

Eakin (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781571684738

A girl goes to her Grandma’s on Saturday mornings for a pancake breakfast. The young girl helps her

grandma make the pancakes and they make pancake “bears” together. Her grandfather, Poppa, is there

to join in the fun. The secret pancake recipe is given at the end of the book. Grandma has lots of hugs,

kisses, and love to share. Illustrates young and old enjoying each other and learning from each other.

Older, Effin (2000). My Two Grandmothers

Harcourt Children’s (PS-1) $16.00

ISBN9780152007850

Lily, a young granddaughter, has two grandmothers. Grammy Lane lives on a farm and rides a tractor

and Bubbe Silver lives in a tall apartment building and likes to play golf. In the summer Lily goes to visit

each grandmother. At the holidays she celebrates Hanukkah with one grandmother and Christmas with

the other. Each grandmother teaches her family traditions that have been passed down from generation

to generation. Lily wants the two grandmothers to meet so she invites them to a special party, the first

traditional “Grandmothers’ Party”. Illustrates young and old enjoying each other. MULTICULTURAL

Oller, Erika (2004). The Cabbage Soup Solution

Dutton Juvenile (K-3) $15.99

ISBN 9780525470052

Elsie is an older woman who has a cabbage farm. She drives in to town to sell her cabbages. One

morning see finds nearly all of her cabbages are gone and she sets out to find who took them. With the

help of her cat the mystery is solved and Elsie makes some new friends. Shows an older person who is

working and active.

Olson, Arielle (1990). Hurry Home, Grandma!

Penguin (PS-3) $4.99

ISBN 0-14-054760-6

Timothy and Melinda anxiously anticipate their explorer grandmother's arrival for Christmas. Grandma

rushes through various adventures to make it home in time. One of these adventures include flying a

plane. Grandmother is involved in many nontraditional activities. Leads into a discussion of what

children would like to do as an older person.

Oppenheim, Shulamith (1994). Fireflies for Nathan

HarperCollins (PS-2) $16.00

ISBN 9780688121471

Nathan and his grandparents catch fireflies together at their rural home, just as Nathan’s father did when

he was a boy. An intergenerational story that depicts active, interesting grandparents and family history.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Oxenbury, Helen (1993). Grandma and Grandpa

Puffin (PS-1) $3.99

ISBN 0-14-054978-1

A small girl tells about all the good times that she has during her weekly visits to her grandparent’s house.

Illustrates a warm and loving relationship between grandparents and grandchildren.

Park, Frances & Park, Ginger (2005). The Have a Good Day Cafe

Lee & Low (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781584301714

Grandma came from Korea a year ago to live with Mike and his family. Every morning the family drives to

the city where they sell American–style food from their corner food cart. When business becomes slow

Grandma and Mike have a solution. They decide to make and sell Korean food from the cart. Mike

names the cart “The Have a Good Day Cafe” and the business is successful again. Active, resourceful,

grandmother. Loving intergenerational relationship. Korean words are used in the story and a glossary

of Korean words is at the end of the book. MULTICULTURAL

Pittman, Helena (1993). Once When I Was Scared

Dutton (PS-2) $4.99

ISBN 9780140549324

Grandfather talks to his grandson about when he was a little boy growing up in a mountain cabin. One

time, he recalls, the stove went out and he had to get coal from the neighbors to restart it. Going to the

"neighbors" meant going a long way across hills and through the woods. He helps the grandson learn

about what life was like when he was young.

Polacco, Patricia (2008). Someone for Mr. Sussman

Philomel (2-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780399250750

Jerome’s Bubbie (grandmother) is a “shadken”. In Jewish tradition a shadken is a matchmaker. Bubbie is

a great matchmaker and able to find matches for everyone except Mr. Sussman. At the end of the story

Bubbie becomes a match for Mr. Sussman. An amusing story that discusses Jewish tradition and shows

the interesting things Bubbie does in courting Mr. Sussman. Illustrates the topics of companionship,

dating and marriage that are often not often addressed in literature with older adults. MULTICULTURAL

Prater, John (2003). Is It Christmas?

Barron’s (PS-2) $13.95

ISBN 9780764156687

Baby bear is excited because Christmas is almost here. He and Grandpa Bear open cards, make cards,

clean the house, bake cookies for Christmas visitors, make a snowman, dig up a Christmas tree, decorate

the tree, and celebrate Christmas with the family. A loving and capable grandfather.

Purdy, Carol (1994/1997). Mrs. Merriweather’s Musical Cat

G. P. Putnam’s Sons (K-3) $15.95/$5.95

ISBN 9780399225437/ISBN 9780698115989

Mrs. Merriweather is an older woman who gives music lessons to the neighborhood children. When a

stray cat appears, she adopts the cat and calls it Beethoven. With the cat’s arrival things begin to happen.

Mrs. Merriweather joined an aerobics class, subscribed to Musical Adventure, redecorated her piano

studio, and bought a “wild” red dress. Her neighbor, Mr. Crump, bought her a bouquet of roses to thank

her for the beautiful music that came after Beethoven arrived. As the story ends, Beethoven has a

surprise for them with a litter of kittens. An active, capable older person who is working.

Purnell, Ann (2002). Apple Cider Making Days

Millbrook (K-3) $21.90

ISBN 9780761323648

Grandpa has an apple farm and makes cider. He drives the tractor that pulls the wagon that carries all

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

the aunts, uncles, cousins and grandkids out to pick the apples. Grandpa supervises the cider making

process. Once the cider is made it is sold at Grandpa’s Apple Barn along with Grandma’s homemade

jams, jellies and donuts. Active grandparents who are working.

Quigley, Mary (2007). Granddad’s Fishing Buddy

Dial (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780803729421

The story of a young girl staying with her grandparents at their cottage on the lake. Grandpa cooks

breakfast and gets up early to go fishing. The young granddaughter goes fishing with him and granddad

teaches her how to fish. Active grandparents and a loving intergenerational relationship.

Reynolds, Adrian (2001). Pete and Polo’s Farmyard Adventure

Scholastic (PS-1) $16.95

ISBN 9780439309134

Pete and his stuffed polar bear Polo visit Grandpa’s farm. One morning grandpa took Pete and Polo to

the pond where there were new ducklings. When they got to the pond it had dried up and the search for

the ducklings began. Pete finds the ducklings and takes them back to the farmhouse. Grandpa refills the

duck pond and Pete and Grandpa watch the ducklings swimming happily. Illustrates an active older adult

and young and old enjoying each other.

Rosa-Casanova, Sylvia (2001). Mama Provi and the Pot of Rice

Tandem Library Books (PS-3) $14.15

ISBN 9780689842498

Lucy is a Hispanic girl who lives on the eighth floor of an apartment building and her grandmother, Mama

Provi, lives on the first floor. When Lucy spends the night with her, grandmother tells her wonderful

stories and fixes her a breakfast feast. Lucy gets chickenpox and cannot go to visit. Mama Provi decides

to make Lucy’s favorite dish, rice with chicken, and take it to her. As Mama Provi climbed the stairs with

her huge pot of rice she noticed many wonderful smells and traded some of her rice for the food her

neighbors were cooking. By the time she arrived at Lucy’s door she had a feast for Lucy. Illustrates old

and young enjoying each other and an active, industrious grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Roseberry, Vera (2005). Vera’s Baby Sister

Henry Holt (1-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780805071269

Vera is having a hard time adjusting to a new baby sister and Grandfather helps her. They plant a garden

and build a bean tent. The beans grow, Vera adjusts to her new baby sister, and plants a bean tent for

her the next year. Loving intergenerational relationship. Thoughtful, wise grandfather.

Rosen, Michael (2005). Fishing With Dad: Lessons of Love and Lure From Father

to Son

Artisan (PS-3) $9.95

ISBN 9781579652869

When the author was young he would go fishing with his father on Sunday. Now his son goes fishing with

his father like he used to. The grandson calla the grandfather “Zee” which is short for Zayde (Yiddish for

Grandpa). The pair get up early, stop for bait, travel down country roads, hike through a farmer’s field,

and find the fishing hole. Grandpa has an amazing tackle box, fishing vest and hart, as well as a fishing

secret that is revealed at the end of the book. Actual photograph are used to show the boy and his

grandfather and their fishing excursions. A loving intergenerational relationship and an active older adult.

Rotner, Shelly & Kelly, Sheila (2001). Lots of Grandparents

Milbrook Press (PS-K) $23.90

ISBN 9780761323136

Shows grandparents doing many things such as working, telling stories and playing with grandchildren.

Mentions that there are also great-grandparents. Notes that sometimes grandparents live where there

are people to take care of them and some have hearing and vision problems, but overall the portrayals in

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

the book are positive.

Ruepp, Krista (2005/2007). Runaway Pony

North-South (2-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780735819856

Anna lived with her parents and grandparents on an island in the far north of Iceland. Anna had a pony,

Prince. Prince was too young to ride and Anna was training him how to walk with a halter and lead line.

One day when they were walking Prince was frightened by a tractor and ran away. Anna’s grandmother

goes off with her to help her find Prince. The grandmother knows just what to do to win back the ponies

trust. Wise, caring grandmother. Nonstereotypic illustrations.

Rylant, Cynthia (2002/2005). Christmas in the Country

Blue Sky (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780439073349

A girl lived with her grandparents in the country and Christmas was the time of year she most looked

forward to. Grandfather always chopped a Christmas tree from the woods behind the house, and the girl

and her grandmother pulled boxes of ornaments from the closet. On Christmas Eve the girl and her

grandparents went to church services. After the service grandmother helped her write a note to Santa.

On Christmas day grandma fixed a family dinner. Active, capable grandparents.

Rylant, Cynthia (1993). Mr. Griggs’s Work

Scholastic (PS-1) $6.95

ISBN 9780531070376

Year after year Mr. Griggs has worked at the Post Office. He loves his work and is very upset if he must

miss a day. Shows an active older person who is working and a vital part of his community.

Rylant, Cynthia. Mr. Putter and Tabby Series

In the series Mr. Putter has a cat named Tabby and his friend Mrs. Merriweather has a bulldog

named Zeke. Both Mr. Putter and Mrs. Merriweather are active older people. The two of them enjoy

each other’s company and do things together.

Mr. Putter and Tabby Ride the Bike (2002) $14.00.

ISBN 0-15-202432-8

Schaap, Martine & deWolf Alex (2001). Mop’s Treasure Hunt

Gingham Dog (PS-1) $12.95

ISBN 9781577688914

Twins Justin and Julie and Mop the sheepdog are going to Granddad’s. Granddad’s place is like a

pirate’s den. Granddad shows them treasures from his sailor days and tells them exciting sea stories

from his past. Illustrates young and old enjoying each other as well as family history and oral history.

Schlein, Miriam (2004). The Story About Me

Albert Whitman (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 978080757631

Grandma loves to tell stories about the family. She tells her granddaughter about activities that happened

before the granddaughter was born, like great-uncle Paul calling from Washington, DC and great-aunt

Sally knitting for her. Leads into a discussion of family history and oral history.

Schwartz, Amy (1998). Oma And Bobo

Simon & Schuster (PS-2) $5.99

ISBN 9780689821158

Alice gets a dog "Bobo" for her birthday much to her grandmother's dismay. Alice and Bobo go to dog

obedience school. Grandmother starts to like Bobo and surprises Alice when she helps Bobo win a blue

ribbon at the dog show. An active grandmother who is loved by her granddaughter.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Schwartz, David (1991). Supergrandpa

HarperCollins (1-3) $17.00

ISBN 9780688098988

This book is actually based on the story of 66 year old Gustaf Hakansson of Sweden. Gustaf was told he

was too old to compete in a 1,094 mile bicycle race. He entered the race and finished first. A little girl

who saw him along the route named him “Supergrandpa.” The race shattered aging stereotypes and

captured the hearts and adoration of his country. Gustaf became a national hero. There are few

children’s books that tell a true story about an older person and this one is inspirational. Illustrates an

active, capable older person. Helps children to see activities they can do throughout life, “lifespan”

activities, such as biking. MULTICULTURAL

Schwartz, Harriet (1996). When Artie Was Little

Knopf (2-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780679832362

The story of Artie’s life is told now when Artie is now an older man. Artie tells about his best Christmas,

the most famous person he ever met, and his best friend. He tells about riding in a biplane, wanting to be

a pilot, and becoming one. As the story is told pictures of Artie as an older man appear. A story of

growing up and growing older and fulfilling one’s dreams.

Scott, Blackie (1992). It's Fun At Grandmother's House

Peachtree (PS-3) $8.95

ISBN 9780932419013

Contrasts daily events in a young girl's life at her house and at her grandmother's home. Grandmother's

house provides a wonderful time for the young girl, and it is obvious that they share a special love. The

illustrations are contemporary and not age stereotypic.

Shaw, Eve (2001). Grandma’s Alphabet: Grandma Can Be Anything From A to Z

Scholastic (PS-1) $14.95

ISBN 9780439199957

For every letter in the alphabet there is a description of a grandma. Each description is very positive and

not age stereotypic. Some interesting portrayals include grandma as an artist, business woman,

carpenter, doctor, engineer, judge, innkeeper, rancher, scientist, teacher, yachter, and zoologist. Shows

young children the potentials of aging. MULTICULTURAL

Shields, Carol (2000/2002). Lucky Pennies and Hot Chocolate

Penguin (PS) $5.99

ISBN 9780142301906

When grandpa comes for a weekend visit he and his grandson have lots of fun together. They tell jokes,

drink hot chocolate with marshmallows, eat peanut butter, go for walks, read books, do dishes, and take

rides in grandpa’s convertible with the top down. On a thunder filled night the young grandson finds it

comforting to have grandpa with him. A warm intergenerational relationship that shows similarities

between young and old and young and old enjoying each other. An active grandparent.

Silverman, Erica (1996). Mrs. Peachtree’s Bicycle

Simon & Schuster (PS-3) $15.00

ISBN 9780689804779

Set in the 1800’s. Mrs. Peachtree owns a tea shop and she and her cat Shadow walk to deliver tea and

biscuits each day. She decides that she needs to get a bicycle. However, she needs to learn how to ride

a bike. After going to the City Riding Academy she masters bike riding. Shows an older person who is

working, capable, and learning new things. Shows the children an activity that they may be already

involved in, such as biking, that can be a “lifespan activity”.

Slier, Debby (1992). Me and My Grandpa

Checkerboard (PS) $2.95

ISBN 9781562881825

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Slier, Debby (1992). Me and My Grandma

Checkerboard (PS) $2.95

ISBN 9781562881832

Pocket-sized, wipe clean books that talk about young children's activities with grandpa and grandma.

Delightful pictures. Shows old and young enjoying one another.

Smalls, Irene (2006). My Pop Pop and Me

Little, Brown & Company (PS-1) $15.99

ISBN 9780316734226

A young African-American boy tells about his grandfather, Pop Pop. He enjoys his time with Pop Pop as

they bake and eat a yummy lemon cake. MULTICULTURAL

Smalls, Irene (2005). My Nana and Me

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (PS-2) $15.99

ISBN 9780316168212

The story tells of a day full of love and fun between a young granddaughter and her grandmother (Nana).

They have a tea party, dress up and put on a show, play hide-and-seek, plait hair, and do bedtime

stories. The young girl says that Nana knows everything. Non-stereotypic portrayal of grandmother. An

active grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Spinelli, Eileen (2002). Wanda’s Monster

Albert Whitman (PS-2) $15.95

ISBN 9780807586563

Wanda suspects a monster is in her closet. Granny has an interesting approach to Wanda’s monster and

helps Wanda deal with her fears. Capable, sensitive, imaginative grandmother.

Steel, Danielle (1989). Max And The Baby-Sitter

Delacorte (PS-2) $8.95

ISBN 0-385-29796-3

Max has a baby-sitter, Jean, when his parents are at work. Jean is an older woman who takes care of a

number of young children. She reads to the children and they make puppets of paper-maché and gifts for

their parents. Max likes having Jean as a sitter. Jean is shown to be a capable, loving, trustworthy

person. This book shows the children an older adult who is working.

Stilz, Carol (1995). Grandma Buffalo, May, and Me

Sasquatch Books (2-3) $14.95

ISBN 9781570610158

Although an older person is not a main character in the story this is a good story about family history. A

young girl and her mother go to visit her Montana grandma and create their family history story. A family

photo album helps to tell family history.

Sullivan, Sarah (2005). Root Beer and Banana

Candlewick (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9780763617486

Molly and her grandfather spend time together and go to Mister Mac’s store. Mister Mac and grandfather

are old friends. At the store Molly meets a young girl, Miracle. Miracle does not have enough money to

buy an ice pop, but grandfather helps out and both of the girls get an ice pop. Grandfather is active,

compassionate and caring. Nonstereotypic illustrations.

Taulbert, Clifton (1999). Little Cliff and the Porch People

Penguin (1-3) $16.99

ISBN 9780803721746

Little Cliff lived with his great-grandparents, Poppa Joe and Mama Pearl. He loved going with Poppa Joe

to the city where they would buy things. One day he was sent to buy a pound of Miz Callie’s special

butter for Mama Pearl’s candied sweet potatoes. He knew he was supposed to come back as fast as he

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

could, but also knew he must speak respectfully to each neighbor he saw along the way. The neighbors

are older friends and family. Few stories have great-grandparents raising great-grandchildren. A

heartwarming, intergenerational story with capable, active older people. MULTICULTURAL

Tessler, Manya (2008). Yuki’s Ride Home

Bloomsbury (K-3) $16.95

ISBN 9781599900230

Yuki pedals her bicycle across the bridge from her house to Grandma’s house. There is so much to do at

Grandma’s. Grandma has a dog, a cat, and a canary. They do many things including feeding the fish

(koi) and seagulls and making origami animals. Grandma makes her Japanese udon noodle soup for

dinner. After dinner they sit in the same spot where grandma used to sit with Yuki’s mother. They listen

to the night music of the fish splashing in the water and the waves lapping on the shore.

MULTICULTURAL

Thomasie, Tynia (1996). Mimi’s Tutu

Scholastic (PS-3) $14.95

ISBN 9780590440202

Mimi’s grandmother and aunts make her a traditional African tutu for her mother’s African dance class,

and she learns that her own lapa skirt has a special significance. Illustrates intergenerational sharing,

culture and family history. MULTICULTURAL

Thomson, Pat (1987). Can You Hear Me, Grandad?

BDD Books for Young Readers (PS-3) $2.50

ISBN 0-440-40025-2

When the young granddaughter talks to her grandfather as they visit the zoo, he pretends not to hear well

and mixes up her words. A good time is had by all. Shows old and young enjoying each other.

Tsubakiyama, Margaret (1999). Mei-Mei Loves the Morning

Tandem Library Books (PS-3) $15.30

ISBN 9780807550397

The story is set in contemporary China. Mei-Mei is a young girl who loves the morning because she and

grandpa do wonderful things together. Mei-Mei uncovers the bird cage, grandpa cooks breakfast and the

two of them go on grandpa’s bicycle for a ride in the city. In the city they shop, visit friends and do tai-chi.

Shows older people as active and contributing members of their families and communities.

MULTICULTURAL

Turner-Denstaedt, Melanie (2009). The Hat That Wore Clara B.

Farrar Straus Giroux. (1-3) $15.95

ISBN 9780670010929

It’s Mother’s Sunday at church, when the ladies dress up in crisp white suits and gloves and wear

beautiful hats. Clara B. loved to sit behind the best hat which always belonged to her Grandma. Clara B.

comes to have a hat of her own. According to the author, Mother’s Sunday is a tradition that is practiced

in many African American Baptist churches and usually occurs on Communion Sunday when the older

women in the church dress up in their finest white suits and most beautiful Sunday hats. Active

grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Underwood, Deborah (2010). Granny Gomez and Jigsaw

Hyperion (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 979078685216

Granny Gomez lived in a big farm house in the country. She liked her big house because it had lots of

room for all of her things including her skis, bass drum, mountain-climbing gear, and her jigsaw puzzles.

Granny decides that Granny calls the pig Jigsaw because he helps her with jigsaw puzzles. When the pig

gets too big she builds the pig its own barn home.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Weatherford, Carole (1996). Grandma and Me

Writers and Readers Publishing (PS) $5.95

ISBN 9780863162527

A young girl describes her grandma and the things they do together. Grandma has a smile as bright as a

sunny day, laughs and plays, reads stories, and rocks you to sleep. A loving portrayal of a grandparent

and a caring intergenerational relationship.

Williams, Barbara (1975). Kevin's Grandma

Puffin (PS-3) $9.25/$3.95

ISBN 0-525-33115-8/ISBN 0-525-45039-4

Kevin and his friend talk about their two very different grandmothers. Kevin's grandmother likes MAD

magazine, rides a Honda, arm wrestles, practices yoga and judo, belongs to mountain-climbing/scuba

diving/karate clubs, fixes her own roof, goes skydiving, takes her grandchildren on trips, and makes

peanut butter soup. His friend's grandmother gives piano lessons, plays checkers with him, takes him to

the ice cream parlor, belongs to bridge/garden/music clubs, keeps interesting scrapbooks, takes her

grandchildren on trips, and volunteers her time. Both grandmothers are portrayed as interesting and help

to illustrate to children the variety of activities older people can be involved in.

Wilson, Christopher (1980). A Treasure Hunt

U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare (K-3) Unpriced

USDHEW Publication #80-1403

This book was written as an attempt to overcome the stereotyped view of older people. As two children,

Jan and Janet, walk through their neighborhood they meet many older people. The older people in the

neighborhood plan a treasure hunt where the children visit their older neighbors. Intergenerational story

with older people who are active in their community.

Winch, John (1997). The Old Woman Who Loved to Read

Holiday House (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780823412814

An older woman moved from the noisy city to the country where she thought it would be quiet and she

could read. She soon finds out that country life is not so peaceful. She has animals to care for, a barn to

repair, fields to tend, a sheep to shear, fruit to harvest, and preserves to make. Once all the chores are

done she finally has time to read. Shows older people as active and capable.

Winch, John (2000). Keeping up With Grandma

Holiday House (PS-3) $16.95

ISBN 9780823415632

Grandma and Grandpa are busy with their hobbies. Grandpa loves to paint and Grandma loves to bake.

However, Grandma longs for adventure. She decides to do mountain climbing, sledding, white-water

canoeing, diving, ballooning, cave exploring, horseback riding, and dancing. During all these adventures

Grandpa is busy “keeping up” with Grandma. Shows older people as active and capable. Illustrates

“lifespan activities”, activities people can be involved in as children and throughout life.

Winslow, Audrey (1997). My Grandma Says

Strategic (PS-1) $6.95

ISBN 9781606939796

Wise advice from grandma echo throughout the book. There is a chance for young readers to interact

with the text as they are asked questions. The interactive nature is a nice feature and lets children think

about their own grandparents and experiences with older people.

Yolen, Jane (2005). Grandma’s Hurrying Child

Gulliver Books (1-3) $16.00

ISBN 9780152018130

Grandma tells Maddy the story of her birth. On the day that Maddy was born Grandma hurried to the

hospital to see her. An active grandmother. Loving intergenerational relationship

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Ziefert, Harriet (2011). Grandma’s Wedding Album

Blue Apple (PS-2) $17.99

ISBN 9781609050580

Emily and Michael are up in the attic and find grandmas and Poppy’s wedding clothes. Grandma shows

them her wedding album, tells them the story of how she met Poppy, and the story of her wedding.

Illustrates family history. Wedding traditions of many different cultures are discussed at the end of the

book. Non-stereotypic portrayal of the grandmother. MULTICULTURAL

Zeifert, Harriet (2009). My Forever Dress

Blue Apple (PS-2) $16.99

ISBN 9781934706459

A grandma makes the granddaughter a dress. The next year when the dress is outgrown the

grandmother talks to the girl about saving the earth, and how they should use new material only if they

have too. The girl decides she likes the shorter dress, grandma makes her a pair of leggings to go with it,

and the dress is “recycled”. The next year grandma offers to make a new dress, but the granddaughter

likes her old dress and wants to help the environment. Together they “recycle” the dress into a jumper

and a new sweater knitted by grandma. The girl calls the dress her “forever dress”. When she does

outgrow the dress she “recycles” it by giving it to her cousin to be her forever dress. Active grandmother

who shares a good lesson about helping the environment.

Ziefert, Harriet (2006). Grandma, It’s for You!

Blue Apple (PS-1) $15.95

ISBN 9781593541095

Lulu wants to give her grandma the best present she has ever received. Lulu makes her grandmother a

hat decorated with all of grandmother’s favorite things. Grandmother loves the hat. Loving

intergenerational relationship portrayed.

Ziefert, Harriet (2006). That’s What Grandmas Are For

Blue Apple (PS-1) $12.95

ISBN 9781593540982

A grandmother and her grandchildren take turns talking about all the things they enjoy about each other

and things that make their relationship special.

Ziefert, Harriet (2006). That’s What Grandpas Are For

Blue Apple (PS1) $12.95

ISBN 9781593540975

A grandfather and his grandchildren take turns talking about all the things they enjoy about each other

and things that make their relationship special.

Ziefert, Harriet (2003). Lunchtime for a Purple Snake

Houghton/Lorraine (PS-1) $15.00

ISBN 9780618311330

Jessica’s grandfather is an artist and she loves to visit him in his studio and paint with him. Grandpa

teaches Jessica about art. Grandfather is knowledgeable and working as an artist. Loving

intergenerational relationship.

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

SOME FAVORITE OUT-OF- PRINT STORIES (OOPS)

Over the years many excellent books have gone out-of-print. These books are often available at

local libraries or through book vendors. Occasionally, some of the books return to print. The

following are some of my personal favorites. A complete listing of OOPS follow this listing.

Alexander, Martha (1992). Where Does the Sky End Grandpa?

Applet, Kathi (2003). The Best Kind of Gift

Applet, Kathi (2002). Where, Where is Swamp Bear?

Arnold, Marsha (1998). The Chicken Salad Club

Baker, Sanna (1995). Grandpa is a Flyer

Bauer, Marion (1995). When I Go Camping With Grandma

Beardshaw, Rosalind (2004). Grandpa’s Surprise

Beardshaw, Rosalind (2001). Grandma’s Beach

Blos, Joan (1994). The Grandpa Days

Bond, Ruskin (2003). Cherry Tree MULTICULTURAL

Bornstein, Ruth (1990). A Beautiful Seashell

Butterworth, Nick (2003). My Grandpa is Amazing

Butterworth, Nick (2003). My Grandma is Amazing

Chocolate, Debbie (1998). The Piano Man MULTICULTURAL

Cohen, Caron (2002). Everything is Different at Nonna’s House

Cumberbatch, Judy (2006). Can You Hear the Sea?

DeGross, Monalisa (1999). Granddaddy’s Street Songs MULTICULTURAL

Demas, Corrine (2000). The Disappearing Island

Denslow, Sharon (1990). At Taylors Place

DiSalvo, DyAnne (2002). Spaghetti Park MULTICULTURAL

DiSalvo, DyAnne (1997). Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen

Douglass, Barbara (1982). Good As New

Duncan, Alice (1999). Miss Viola and Uncle Jed Lee

Ford,Juwanda (1996). Kenya’s Family Reunion MULTICULTURAL

Fruisen, Catherine (2002). My Mother’s Pearls

Goldman, Susan (1976). Grandma is Somebody Special

Grifalconi, Ann (2007). Ain’t Noboby A Stranger to Me MULTICULTURAL

Griffith, Helen (1995). Grandaddy’s Stars MULTICULTURAL

Griffith, Helen (1993). Grandaddy and Janetta MULTICULTURAL

Griffith, Helen (1987). Grandaddy’s Place MULTICULTURAL

Helldorfer, M.C. (2004). Got to Dance

Hest, Amy (2001). The Friday Nights of Nana MULTICULTURAL

Hest, Amy (1998). Gabby Growing Up

Hest, Amy (1992). The Go-Between

Hest, Amy (1988). The Crack-of-Dawn-Walkers

Hilton, Nette (1990). The Long Red Scarf

Hines, Anna (1996). Miss Emma’s Wild Garden

Hoberman, Mary Ann (2007). I’m Going to Grandma’s

Hughes, Saah (2001). My Grandmother Works in a Dress Shop

Hurd, Edith (1982). I Dance In My Read Pajamas

Jacobs, Laurie (2005). A Box of Candles MULTICULTURAL

Joosse, Barbara (2001). A Houseful of Christmas

Kesselman, Wendy (1993). Emma

Kessler, Christina (2000). My Great-Grandmother’s Gourd MULTICULTURAL

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Krebs, Laurie (2002). The Beeman

Lasky, Kathryn (1988). Sea Swan

Lyons, Marty (1997). Catching the Fire. Phillip Simmons Blacksmith

MULTICULTURAL

Matze, Claire (1999). The Stars in My Geddoh’s Sky MULTICULTURAL

May, Kathy (2000). Molasses Man MULTICULTURAL

McCleery, Patsy (1988). The Turtle Lady

McElroy, Lisa (2000-2001). Meet My Grandmother (series)

Mills, Claudia (1999-2004). Gus and Grandpa series. Please check the Out-of-Print listing for

books in the series that have gone out of print.

Mitchell, Margaree (2003). Grandaddy’s Gift MULTICULTURAL

Moore, Elaine (1984). Grandma’s Garden

Older, Effin (2000). My Two Grandmothers MULTICULTURAL

Oppenheim, Shulamith (1994). Fireflies for Nathan

Parr, Todd (2006). The Grandpa Book

Prater, John (2003). Is It Christmas?

Purdy, Carol (1994/1997). Mrs. Merriweather’s Cat

Purnell, Ann (2002). Apple Cider Making Days

Rosen, Michael (2005). Fishing With Dad: Lessons of Love and Lure From Father to Son

Root, Phyllis (2003). The Name Quilt

Rylant, Cynthia (2002). Christmas in the Country

Rylant, Cynthia (2002). The Ticky-Tacky Doll

Schwartz, David (1991). Supergrandpa MULTICULTURAL

Schwartz, Harriet (1996). When Artie Was Little

Shaw, Eve (2001). Grandmother’s Alphabet: Grandma Can Be Anything for A to Z

MULTICULTURAL

Shields, Carol (2002). Lucky Pennies and Hot Chocolate

Silverman, Erica (1996). Mrs. Peachtree’s Bicycle

Smalls, Irene (2005). My Nana and Me MULTICULTURAL

Stanley, George (2001). Wedding Cookies

Stock, Catherine (2001). Gugu’s House MULTICULTURAL

Sullivan, Sarah (2005). Root Beer and Banana

Taulbert, Clifton (1999). Little Cliff and the Porch People MULTICULTURAL

Taulbert, Clifton (2003). Little Cliff’s First Day of School MULTICULTURAL

Tessler, Manya (2008). Yuki’s Ride Home MULTICULTURAL

Tsubakiyama, Margaret (1999). Mei-Mei Loves the Morning MULTICULTURAL

Williams, Barbara (1975). Kevin’s Grandma

Wilson, Christopher (1980). A Treasure Hunt

Winch, John (2000). Keeping up With Grandma

Ziefert, Harriet (2011). Grandma’s Wedding Album

Ziefert, Harriet (2006). Grandma, It’s For You

Ziefert, Harriet (2005). My Forever Dress

Ziefert, Harriet (2004). My Friend Grandpa

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

SOME MULTICULTURAL STORIES

Favorites

New This Year

New This Year and Favorite

These books can be found on either the books in print list or the out-of-print

stories list. Out-of-print books are marked with an asterisk (*).

African

Barsotti, Joan (1995). Christopher and Grandma on Safari

Cunnane, Kelly (2006). For You Are a Kenyan Child

*Kessler, Christina (2000). My Great-Grandmother’s Gourd

Stock, Catherine (2001). Gugu’s House

Thomasie, Tynia (1996). Mimi’s Tutu

African American

Birtha, Becky (2005). Grandmama’s Pride

*Chocolate, Debbi (1998). The Piano Man

Cox, Judy (2003). My Family Plays Music

Crews, Donald (1991). Bigmama’s

*DeGross, Monalisa (1999). Grandaddy’s Street Songs

Duncan, Alice (1999). Miss Viola and Uncle Jed Lee

English, Karen (1996). Big Wind Coming

English, Karen (2005). The Baby on the Way

Falwell, Cathryn (2013). Rainbow Stew

Flournoy, Valerie (1985). The Patchwork Quilt

*Ford, Juwanda (1996). Kenya’s Family Reunion

Gray, Libba Moore (1993). Miss Tizzy

Greenfield, Eloise (1996). Grandpa’s Face

*Grifalconi, Ann (2007). Ain’t Nobody a Stanger to Me

*Griffith, Helen (1993). Grandaddy and Janetta

*Griffith, Helen (1987). Grandaddy’s Place

*Griffith, Helen (1995). Grandaddy’s Stars

Hoffman, Mary (1998). Amazing Grace

Homan, Lynn & Reilly, Thomas (2002). The Tuskegee Airmen Story

Howard, Elizabeth (1991/1998). Aunt Flossie's Hats (and Crab Cakes Later)

Howard, Elizabeth ( 2001). Lulu’s Birthday

Isadora, Rachel (2005). Luke Goes to Bat

Johnson, Angela (1993). When I am Old With You

Lyons, Marty (1997). Catching the Fire, Philip Simmons, Blacksmith

Mason, Margaret (2010). These Hands

May, Kathy (2000). Molasses Man

Menchin, Scott (2015). Grandma in Blue With Red Hat

Mitchell, Margaree King (2012). When Grandmama Sings

Mitchell, Margaree (1998). Uncle Jed’s Barbershop

*Mitchell, Margaree (1997). Grandaddy’s Gift

Morrison, Thomas & Morrison, Slade (2009). Peeny Butter Fudge

*Smalls, Irene (2005). My Nana and Me

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

*Smalls, Irene (2006). My Pop Pop and Me

*Taulbert, Clifton (1999). Little Cliff and the Porch People

*Taulbert, Clifton (2001). Little Cliff’s First Day of School

*Turner-Denstaedt, Melanie (2009). The Hat That Wore Clara B.

Tusa, Tricia (1987). Maebelle’s Suitcase

Wyeth, Sharon Dennis (2013). The Granddaughter Necklace

American Indian

Annino, Jan Godown (2010). She Sang Promise: The Story of Betty Mae Jumper,

Seminole Tribe Leader

Churchill, Ginger (2011). Wild Rose’s Weaving

Cowley, Joy (1998). Big Moon Tortilla

Flett, Julie (2013). Wild Berries/Pikaci Minisa

Flood, Nancy Bo. (2014). The Hogan That Great-Grandfather Built

Kirk, Connie (2004). Skydancers

Martin, Bill Jr. & Archambault, John (1995). Knots on a Counting Rope

McCain, Becky (1998). Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher

*McLeod, Elaine (2002). Lessons From Mother Earth

Minnema, Cheryl (2014). Hungry Johnny

Nicholson, Caitlin (2008). Niwechihaw/I Help

Yazzie, Seraphine G. (2011). Beauty Beside Me: Stories of My Grandmother’s

Skirts

Appalachian

Crum, Sheila (2004). My Mountain Song

Rylant, Cynthia (2002). The Ticky Tacky Doll

Rylant, Cynthia (2001/1993). The Relatives Came

Rylant, Cynthia (1992/1993) When I Was Young in the Mountains

Arab-American

Matze, Claire (1999). The Stars in My Geddoh’s Sky

Cape Verde Islands

Bates, Janet Costa (2010). Seaside Dream

Caribbean

*Dorros, Arthur (1999). Isla

Chinese

Bridges, Shirin (2002). Ruby’s Wish

*Cheng, Andrea (2000). Grandfather Counts

Compestine, Ying Chang (2011). Crouching Tiger

Isadora, Rachel (2009). Happy Belly, Happy Smile

Look, Lenore (2001). Henry’s First-Moon Birthday

*Tessler, Manya (2008). Yuki’s Ride Home

*Tsubakiyama, Margaret (1999). Mei-Mei Loves the Morning

Greek

*D’Arcy, Karen (2001). My Grandmother is a Singing Yaya

Hawaiian/Islander

*Cumberbach, Judy (2006). Can You Hear the Sea

Guback, Georgia (1994). Luka’s Quilt

*Joosee, Barbara (2008). Grandma Calls Me Beautiful

Hispanic

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Ada, Alma Flor (2002). I Love Saturday y domingos

Aska, Warabe (2006). Tapicero Tap Tap

Baca, Ana (2011). Tia’s Tamales

Broyles, Amy (2013). Arturo and the Navidad Birds

de Anda, Diane (2013). The Patchwork Garden/Pedacitos de huerto

Delgado, Maria (1996). Chave’s Memories

Dorros, Arthur (2014). Abuelo

*Herrera, Juan Felipe (2002). Grandma and Me at the Flea/Los Meros Meros

Remateros

Jeffers, Dawn (2006). Vegetable Dreams/Huerto Cunado

Johnston, Tony (2009). My Abuelita

Lainez, Rene (2005). Play loteria/El juegode la loteria

Mora, Pat (2008). Sweet Dreams/Dulces suenos

Mora, Pat (1997). A Birthday Basket for Tia

Mora, Pat & Martinez, Libby (2014). I Pledge Allegiance

Ortega, Cristina (2006). The Eye of the Weaver. Los ojus del tejedor

*Rosa-Casanova, Sylvia (1997). Mama Provi and the Pot of Rice

Ryan, Pam Munoz (2001). Mice and Beans

Sasso, Sandy (2005). Abuelita’s Secret Matzahs

Solomon, Sharon (2009). Walk with Grandpa/Un paseo con abuelo

Indian

*Bond, Ruskin (1996). Cherry Tree

Sheth, Kashmira (2007). My Dadima Wears a Sari

Sheth, Kashmira (2008). Monsoon Afternoon

Interior Salish

Campbell, Nicola (2011). Grandpa’s Girls

Inuit

Teevee, Ningeokuluk (2009). Alego

Iran

*Balouch, Kristin (2006). Mystery Bottle

Italian

DiSalvo, DyAnne (2002). Spaghetti Park

Schwartz, Amy (2009). Our Corner Grocery Store

Japanese

Say, Allen (1993). Grandfather’s Journey

*Tessler, Manya (2008). Yuki’s Ride Home

Thompson, Holly (2007). The Wakame Gatherers

Ugegaki, Chieri (2014). Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

Wells, Rosemary (2001). Yoko’s Paper Cranes

Jewish

Gilman, Phoebe (1992). Something From Nothing

Glaser, Linda (1997). The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkes

*Hawxhurst, Joan (1996). Bubbe and Gram. My Two Grandmothers

Herman, Charlotte (2010). First Rain

*Hest, Amy (2001). The Friday Nights of Nana

*Jacobs, Laurie (2005). A Box of Candles

Lanton, Sandy (2014). The Littlest Levine

Growing Up and Growing Older 2016

Marshall, Linda Elovitz (2012). Grandma Rose’s Magic

Newman, Leslea (2012). A Sweet Passover

*Older, Effin (2000). My Two Grandmothers

Pinson, Isabel (2014). Bubba’s Belated Bat Mitzvah

*Polacco, Patricia (2008). Someone for Mr. Sussman

*Rosen, Michael (2005). Fishing With Dad: Lessons on Love and Lure From

Father to Son

Rosenbaum, Adria (2006). A Grandma Like Yours/A Grandpa Like Yours

Rosenthal, Betsy (2006). It’s Not Worth Making a Tzimmes Over

Sasso, Sandy (2005). Abuelita’s Secret Matzahs

Shulimson, Sarene (2012). Lights Out Shabbat

Korean

*Bercaw, Edna Coe (2000). Halmoni’s Day

*Choi, Sook Nyul (1993). Halmoni and the Picnic

Park, Frances & Park, Ginger (2005). The Have a Good Day Café

Muslim

Addasi, Maha (2010). Time to Pray

*Mobin-Uddin, Asma (2007). The Best Eid Ever

Puerto Rican

Velasquez, Eric (2001). Grandma’s Records

Russian

*Cech, John (1998). My Grandmother’s Journey

Dillon, Jana (2003). Sasha’s Matrioshka Dolls

Swedish

Schwartz, David (1991). Supergrandpa

Tanzania

Robinson, Sharon (2014). Under the Same Sun

Trinidad

*Bootman, Colin (2006). Fish for the Grand Lady

Vietnamese

*Keller, Holly (1994). Grandfather’s Dream

West Indian

*Bryan, Ashley (1989). Turtle Knows Your Name

Zimbabwe

Stock, Catherine (2001). Gugu’s House

Diverse Cultures

Neasi, Barbara (2001). Listen to Me

Ransome, James (2012). My Teacher