9 Lovely Books for Celebrating Grandparents’ Day (Sunday, September 8)

Grandpa’s Top Threes, by Wendy Meddour, illustrated by Daniel Egnéus
Henry can’t understand why Grandpa’s so distant, spending all his time gardening alone. His mother urges him to give him time, and he does (“six and a half minutes”). Gradually, the two reconnect over discussing their “top threes”—first sandwiches, then jellyfish, then trains, and eventually outings and special memories of Granny. What begins as a funny account of a young boy trying to be patient with someone older turns out to be a stirring tribute to grandparents’ love for each other and their progeny.

Grandma’s Purse, by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
When grandma Mimi comes to visit, she always brings her giant, colorful purse. Summing up the feelings of every small child who’s ever been desperate to dive into (and unload) an adult’s bag, the young girl exclaims, “I can’t look away from it! It must be full of magical things! All of the things that make my grandma Mimi.” Her lively, sensory journey of unpacking the purse yields glasses, candy, jewelry, makeup, perfume—and of course, a special gift at the bottom. If you remember a grandparent always pulling something out of a bag or pocket for you, this title will leave you nostalgic for those signature tokens—and the love that came with them.

Around the Table that Grandpa Built, by Melanie Heuiser Hill, illustrated by Jaime Kim
Grandparents have a unique power to bring families together. In this tender twist on “The House That Jack Built,” this granddad built a table. Family members add flowers, napkins, place settings, garden veggies, and savory and sweet dishes from many cultures. At the table, they gather, thankful to be together. Share this story to celebrate how grandparents can unite a family, and then enjoy it again as the calendar moves towards Thanksgiving.

I Really Want to See You, Grandma, by Taro Gomi
Yumi and her grandmother are both struck by the urgent wish to see each other, so they each set out immediately from their homes for a visit. The only problem is that as Yumi travels by bus and truck, and Grandma travels by train and taxi, they cross paths unknowingly! After disappointment and confusion, the pair finally enjoy a joyful reunion. Every child who eagerly anticipates a grandparent visit (and wishes he or she could jump on a scooter get there faster) will enjoy this sweet portrayal of a special bond.

Thank You, Omu, by Oge Mora
“Omu” means “queen,” in the Nigerian Igbo language, but for author Oge Mora as a child, it meant “Grandma.” The Omu in this story possesses several key “grandma” qualities: inviting warmth, generosity of spirit, and irresistible culinary skill. When the delicious smell of Omu’s red stew wafts out of her apartment, everyone in the neighborhood comes for a taste. By the end of the day, Omu’s pot is empty, but surprise recognition from her grateful visitors fills her heart. This beautiful story of community is a touching reminder to show appreciation for all the grandparent-like figures in our lives.

I Miss My Grandpa, by Iin Xiaojing
This story sensitively addresses the grief many children experience who didn’t have the chance to know their grandparents. A grandmother brings her granddaughter’s late grandfather to life by explaining how their many family members reflect him. The aunts, uncles, and cousins who share his features remember his quiet patience, instincts for gardening, mesmerizing stories, and his wild hair—which it turns out, was passed all the way to his curious granddaughter. This beautiful story relays a universal message for all those who carry precious memories of a departed loved one. Back matter includes a Mandarin translation of the story text.

How to Babysit a Grandma, by Jean Reagan, illustrated by Lee Wildish
Many kids get to enjoy being babysat by their grandparents, but what if they were tasked with taking care of Grandma? This installment of Jean Reagan’s “How to…” series employs her signature light-hearted role reversal, depicting a young girl who deftly manages to keep Grandma entertained with a park visit, baking projects, games, art projects, reading stories, and plenty more. Young readers will certainly make connections to their own favorite activities to enjoy with a grandparent, and will likely be begging their parents to head out of town so they can have their own chance to “babysit.”

Looking for Yesterday, by Alison Jay
One of the best things about grandparents is the wisdom they’re able to share. When a young boy has a day that’s so special, he can’t imagine anything better than to “go back and do it all again.” So, he sets out earnestly to turn back time. When he’s out of ideas, he turns to his Granddad for advice, who shares the best one of all: “Our best days make happy memories. But every day brings the chance of a new adventure.” Looking back with his Granddad helps the boy store away his own joyful experiences, while also looking forward to the fun still to come.

Our Favorite Day, by Joowon Oh
Many grandparents are devoted masters of both routine and tradition, and it’s these memories of them that are most special. Papa does the same things each morning of the week—except on Thursdays. On Thursdays, he readies his supplies and waits eagerly for his granddaughter’s visit. The two spend a joyful afternoon together filled with crafts, food, and togetherness, reminding us all to appreciate the memories of time spent with those we love.