With Love, Grandma: Xoxo - Hardcover

James, Helen Foster

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 158536942X ISBN 13: 9781585369423

Publisher: Sleeping Bear Pr, 2018

Synopsis

Every grandma knows that her love for her grandchildren can span great distances! So when Grandma heads out on an adventure of her own, she stays in touch with her grandchild through a series of sweet letters and memories. Grandchild follows Grandma through her notes until Grandma finally returns home--and opens up Camp Grandma for a visit full of fun, grandma snuggles, and games. This tender story from the author and illustrator team behind Grandma Loves You! proves that a grandma's love knows no bounds.

About this title

Review

Kirkus Review

A hedgehog grandmother takes a monthlong vacation with friends while continually staying in touch with her beloved grandchild through a volume of correspondence. Taking a break from the usual routine of "Camp Grandma," this active grandparent embarks on an adventurous excursion enjoying the woods, hiking, participating in painting classes, kayaking, visiting the beach, and even finding a "super bookstore." Taking time out for herself is important, but Grandma continually thinks of her little one and relays a series of endearing messages in letters and postcards that arrive almost daily in her grandchild's mailbox. Each begins with a term of endearment for the child and a line or two about what new experience Grandma is enjoying, always linking it to something the two, elder and youngster, did together in the past or will do once again when "Camp Grandma" resumes. "Dear Doodlebug, I took a painting lesson outside today," leads to the assurance that "We'll paint together at CAMP GRANDMA. Let's walk to the park and paint whatever we see." Although it is chronological, the story is not linear, asking readers to glean it from the specifics of each letter or note. Soft pencil and delicate watercolors show an engaging, vigorous grandmother enjoying her outings with smiling fellow forest animals while complementary scenes lovingly portray her memories of days spent with her grandchild. Should encourage dialogic reading and discussion--and hugs. 

School Library Journal Review 

The active hedgehog grandmother in this story surely gets around! In a series of summertime vacation letters written to her grandson from May to June, Grandmother enumerates one exciting activity after another--from hiking and kayaking to discovering bookstores. At the conclusion, readers will see the youngster running to visit Grandma who has returned back home and is opening her arms wide under a sign that says, "Welcome to Camp Grandma." Children will relate to familiar situations where they may have gone to stay with a grandparent or other relative. Appended are simple, almost wordless directions for making s'mores and a paper pirate hat, allowing young ones feel successful by reading and following on their own. Capitalizing on cuteness, Brown's pastel-hued watercolor artwork fills the spreads and is suitable for sharing one-on-one or with a group. The cheerfulness of both characters brings a delightful tale to the intended audience. VERDICT Another winner where books by the author are popular.


Celebrate Picture Books Blog Posting 

Helen Foster James' story in letters is so adorably charming that young readers will snuggle in to learn about Grandma's next adventure and her endearing reminders to her grandchild. James' grandma is energetic, creative, and accomplished, and her independence and zest for life mirrors today's grandparents. Each page is filled with tons of love and the knowledge that little ones are always in a grandparent's heart even if or when distance separates them. While sharing encouragement, teachable moments, gentle advice, inside jokes, and favorite activities, Grandma reveals her pride in and devotion to her grandchild. Little listeners will be reminded of their own grandmas and the special bond they have.

Petra Brown's stunning two-page spreads gorgeously depict Grandma's adventures--from a wildflower meadow, mountain pass, plein air painting class, and Memorial Day parade to a rambling river, bookstore, and rainy day. Playful snapshots of Grandma and Little Hedgehog laughing and enjoying each other's company at home are also interspersed among the lovely illustrations. Images of the flower seed packet, photo, postcard, and pirate hat Grandma sends with some letters adds depth and interest to the story.

This tender, warm-hearted book is like a big hug from Grandma on the bookshelf that can be shared again and again. With Love, Grandma makes a joyful gift to or from Grandma--one that will be cherished.

About this edition

• Publisher: Sleeping Bear Pr
• Publication date: 2018
• ISBN 10: 158536942X
• ISBN 13: 9781585369423
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 32
• Illustrator: Brown Petra