Grandpas, Piranhas, and Other Stories

""Moving and humorous by turns, this picture book honors children’s relationships with, and the legacy of, grandparents. As the book travels through a diverse group of children, a kooky cast of grandparents emerges: a violinist grandma with a passion for birds, a grandpa with a penchant for tall tales, and a great-grandmother with a knack for knitting are included. Acknowledging that time is not unlimited, this ode to grandparents celebrates how their love lingers in the knowledge imparted and the memories shared."" —Foreword Starred Review ""Gr 1-3–In this warm celebration of grandparents, young Nico first describes the many ways Grandpa Rodrigo is a constant part of his life, from teaching him how to ride a bike and sharing a dislike of broccoli soup to “sailing” inside a big cardboard box into playful adventures with pretend pirates and piranhas. He then goes on to introduce Rita, Amadeo, and the rest of a racially diverse set of friends with equally engaged grandpas, grandmas, and great-grandparents of their own, including one elder who sometimes forgets his way but passes out lollipops to children who escort him out to buy the newspaper and then back home. Except for the time he goes off on a trip with Rita’s gram, Rodrigo and his grandson are inseparable; Nico ends with a vision of carrying their closeness on into the next generation. In cartoon illustrations that reflect the narrative’s cozy tone, Bonilla depicts children mingling comfortably with, and learning from, active seniors in both domestic and public settings. VERDICT Young audiences may find their own family relationships enriched by this unusually perceptive exploration of the rewards and nuances of close intergenerational ties."" —John Peters, School Library Journal ""This charming Spanish import explores intergenerational relationships. Nico, a young tot with reddish-brown hair and a toothy smile, loves spending time with Grandpa Rodrigo. Nico’s mom says, “You and your grandpa are like two peas in a pod!” (A comparison of childhood photos depicts both wide-eyed with matching wide grins.) Grandpa Rodrigo and Nico also share a love of storytelling and adventure, along with a strong dislike of zucchini soup. In one daring feat, the intrepid pair climb into a cardboard box with portholes drawn on it and a pirate flag made from a broom swaying in the breeze. Luckily they manage to escape the thousand piranhas that are swimming toward them! Nico, who narrates, then describes other friends’ grandparents. One teaches them woodworking skills, while another is an incredible cook. Will these grandparents be around forever? A new cardboard boat, with Nico all grown up and accompanied by two youngsters, demonstrates that while Grandpa Rodrigo may not physically be present, he’ll never be forgotten, his memories passed down over the years. Bonilla employs flat, warm colors, wrapping the tale with affection and relying on sepia tones to denote the past. This is a lighthearted but touching look at the strong connections formed between children and those lucky enough to have grandparents nearby. Both grandpa and Nico are light-skinned; a diverse cast surrounds them. Lots of lore and lots of love."" —Kirkus Reviews ""In this gentle picture book, a young boy named Nico shares stories about his beloved grandfather and the grandparents of his friends. Memories shared by Grandpa, along with Nico’s own observations and stories, are woven together. The reflective narrative moves forward through memories and hopes for the future. Readers will appreciate the strong sense of family and community as well as the thoughtful treatment of death, which is handled with love and respect and leaves room for further conversation. That tone keeps the story moving and makes for a strong family read-aloud. Soft illustrations use muted tones—tans, oranges, and gentle greens—that match the overall warmth of the text. The visual storytelling highlights many different families and ultimately looks ahead to Nico’s hopeful future. The illustrations enhance facial expressions and add an element of humor and imagination that expands upon the text. Elementary-aged children and older readers will relate to the love of a grandparent or inspirational adult figure who values play and imagination. A gentle, contemplative picture book that honors intergenerational bonds and the lasting power of shared stories."" —Kirsten Caldwell, Booklist