Grade 5 Up. Although the intent of Dr. Ruth's well-meaning discussion of the special relationship between grandparent and child is certainly praiseworthy, this book falls short of the mark. The long-winded, somewhat rambling text deluges readers with advice and helpful hints for improving relationships. Many of the ideas are sound but the sheer volume of them will overwhelm many children. It's also difficult to determine this title's intended audience. In some cases, it seems as though young children are being addressed and in other instances much older children. More mature readers may be put off by the didactic tone of the chapter entitled "What Is a Grandparent?" In fact, it is hard to imagine upper-elementary-age children picking up this book at all, and yet many of the suggested activities, such as recruiting a surrogate grandparent and setting up computer bulletin boards on grandparent-related topics, are age appropriate for them. A well-meaning book that lacks a clear audience.?Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 4^-6. Westheimer is clearly the voice of this plainly written coauthored text, which is enhanced by warm, sweet cartoons contributed by Tracey Campbell Pearson. Stressing the mutually beneficial aspects of a relationship between children and their grandparents, the book provides kids with insights into how to communicate with their relatives, how to compromise when necessary, and how to act with consideration. The authors also explain how to find a foster grandparent and include suggestions for activities for intergenerational sharing. The stresses of living in a three-generation household are barely touched on, and there is little support for kids who really don't get on with Gram or Gramps. But what's here will be helpful for children who love--and like--their relatives but don't have a clue about how to show it. Stephanie Zvirin
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