posted on 16 Aug 2023

Grandpa is Here by Tanya Rosie, illustrated by Chuck Groenink

A long-awaited visit from a grandparent who lives far away is a familiar experience for many children. There is the initial excitement and preparation, then the shyness that can come as they need to assess how to approach and communicate with a new person in the home that they haven’t seen for a while. Soon after comes the delicious discovery of being treated as a the centre of attention who is endlessly fascinating. The special time spent between a grandparent and child away from other adults in the family is also precious. All of this is perfectly captured in this heart-warming picture book.

This particular relationship is about a Grandpa who has made the long journey from Iran to visit his family in Scotland for a winter holiday. He is a comfortable, cuddly looking character with a bristly moustache who brings a suitcase packed with ‘herbs and limes, and Nana’s fig jam and sparkly saffron to make yellow rice.' I loved the rapt expression on the mother’s face as she closes her eyes and sniffs in the smells of her homeland. 

Once he has offered his gifts there is a beautiful moment where the girl sits on his knee and they gaze at one another. From this point they are firm friends who laugh together, share walnuts and communicate happily in a mix of Farsi and English. She allows him a brief nap but then wants to share her world with him. The double page spread that shows her chattering away as she reveals her favourite parts of the countryside is a great way to sum up her enthusiasm.

I can imagine some conversations with children about how tiring this might be for the elderly man as they traipse up hills and across fields. This is followed by snapshots of memorable moments along the journey as she tries to let him know all about what she likes. The fierce love of this little girl for the old man shines on every page. There are no words to express how important it is to spend time together as they walk back home in the quiet evening light. 

There is another shift of atmosphere as the whole family eat together in a celebration meal and everybody stays up far too late trying to squeeze every last bit of happiness from the reunion.

The final part of the story shows how deeply the little girl treasures the presence of her Grandpa in the house. She knows that he has to return home at some point but looks forward to spending more time together. I liked the way that the book finishes with this positive note rather than focussing on him leaving. 

I strongly recommend this beautiful picture book published by Walker Books which has a poignant message about the importance of family and sharing special experiences. I look forward to using it with children to talk about what they would like to tell others about their lives and where they live.

You should be able to find a copy in your local independent bookshop or they will be able to order it for you.       

  

Karen Argent

August 2023