Ganny Says: Wisdom from First Lady Barbara Bush, America's Grandmother

As Barbara Bush's life was being celebrated, the many examples her family shared of her wisdom, humor and values inspired us all. Now what Mrs. Bush taught her children and grandchildren has been collected for all our children. Barbara Bush's grandchildren called her “Ganny,” and they knew how important it was to listen to what Ganny said.

Author Chris Bridge collected Mrs. Bush's passions and priorities: loving family and friends, literacy and serving others and made a special trip to Kennebunkport to get inspiration for the illustrations. She walked the beach where Ganny walked, visited the library where she read to the children and talked to locals who knew her. It seemed that everyone knew Barbara Bush or had a story to share about her! The illustrations depict some of Ganny's favorite places and things. You'll see her big sunhat, her peonies and pearls. One page has her husband, President George Bush's, boat in the background. She filled her life with books and dogs, so you'll find plenty here, along with lots of beautiful blue: her favorite color.

Take a deep breath, and imagine a soft breeze in the salty air as you take a walk with Ganny through the pages in this book. And always remember what Ganny says!

Chris Helene Bridge is an award winning author, artist and literacy advocate whose books inspire and delight people worldwide. Learning of the impact of the literacy crisis, Bridge was determined to get books into the hands of children at risk for illiteracy. She partnered with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation where her books are featured in their literacy programs. Bridge was inspired to write Ganny Says by the wisdom, wit and values of Barbara Bush. She believes the teachings Mrs. Bush gave her family will continue to inspire the youngest readers and their families today. Chris is the mother of two grown sons and lives in Houston, Texas with her husband.