My Grandma is Wonderful by Nick Butterworth (Walker Books pound;2.99). Granny always buys the biggest ice-creams; takes her grandchildren’s side in any argument and has everything in her handbag that you could ever need. This is a good book to use when working on characterisation - it shows how an author can build a picture of a person through their actions, rather than through physical description.
A Sunday with Grandpa by Philippe Dupasquier (Walker Books pound;9.99). The perspectives of three generations unfold when the family spends the day with Grandpa. While the children enjoy his country lifestyle, the subtext explores issues of independence and old age.
From Me To You by Paul Rogers (Orchard Picturebooks pound;14.99). This draws on the experiences of a real person who grew up in the early part of the last century. A piece of lace - once used to trim her christening robe- conjures up some key events from her long life.
Granny’s Quilt by Penny Ives(Puffin Books pound;4.99). Every scrap of material triggers a memory of past school days - from the Roaring Twenties, to wartime austerity.
Grandma’s Bill by Martin Waddell (Hodder Wayland pound;12.99). Grandson Bill looks through the family photograph album and asks, “Where’s me?” But it is only towards the end of the book that his recurring question is answered. This is a touching book that handles time and change in a way young children can understand.
Katie Morag and the Two Grandmothers by Mairi Hedderwick (Red Fox pound;4.99). Town-granny takes good care of her looks and enjoys the luxuries of life. Country-granny is a no-nonsense figure in a sou’wester and anorak. Analysis of the author’s deft use of key details will help children to develop their own skills of characterisation.
