'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Tuesday, 23 March 2021

Review: What do you Call Your Grandma?

This is a beautiful, richly illustrated book that celebrates the unique relationship between children and their grandmothers in all its diverse glory.

Grandmothers of all colours, shapes and sizes are portrayed in this book.

From Nonnas to Jajas, Ba Nois to Bibis, thirteen diverse and distinct ethnicities, are illustrated in vibrant and joyful colour.

Barton and Heiduczek go beyond the stereotypical knitting and pie-baking lady, by also portraying children and their grandmas undertaking a wide variety of adventures together: hiking, singing, cheering at the soccer on tv, sharing their wisdom and stories as well as zipping around in a sports car.

Ok, there's some knitting and cooking happening, too. But it looks pretty cool in this book!

However, the most poignant is the child and grandmother who are separated by distance and rely on letters to have a relationship.

All grandmas and kids have the common thread of revelling in each others' company, with no parent to be seen!

Overall, this book celebrates the joy of childhood when it is shared with a beloved and special lady - grandma.

Title: What do you Call Your Grandma?
Author: Ashleigh Barton
Illustrator: Martina Heiduczek
Publisher: Harper Collns, $19.99
Publication Date: 17March 2021
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9780733340840
For ages: 2+
Type: Picture Book