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

Thursday, 6 April 2023

Review: Grace And Mr Milligan

Elderly Mr Milligan and his aged goat Charlie are next door neighbours and best friends with young Grace. 

The seaside opposite their homes is a favourite place where they share many hours. Fresh cream with fruit is enjoyed by all in, and from, Mr Milligan’s garden.

When Charlie loses his appetite, Mr Milligan, with Grace, take him to the vet. 

They wait for their turn beside all the other sick animals and their owners.

But growing old is not something that can be cured.

Mr Milligan spends all his time with Charlie – at the sea, and in the garden under the trees. Together they visit Grace one more time.

Then Mr Milligan is sad and alone.

So is Grace.

The old man no longer sits at the seaside with his thermos and biscuits, but inside his house. 

Grace must think of something to fix her best friend’s sadness and bring his smile back. 

Poignant and moving, Grace and Mr Milligan portrays the remembrance of love and happy times; reflections that sustain in times of loss and grief.

Beautifully illustrated by Pip Kruger, the images enhance Caz Goodwin’s excellent text with their tenderness, obvious in the friendship and compassion of the young for the old and vice-versa.

An ideal resource to use for explaining ageing, loss and grief, and how loving memories can be the most precious of all requisites in life. 


Title: Grace And Mr Milligan
Author: Caz Goodwin
Illustrator: Pip Kruger
Publisher: Marshall Cavendish, $15.99
Publication Date: 7 February 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9789813009811
For ages: 3 – 6
Type: Picture Book