Kindergarten-Grade 2-This inventive tale follows the education of Molly McCool, a hip, fit, convertible-driving grandma-to-be who worries that she doesn't know how to be a grandma. She's forgotten her nursery rhymes, and can't bake an edible cookie to save her life. But, under the tutelage of wise Mrs. Applebee, Molly learns the important basics. The author's amusing concept translates well to the page, allowing for a wide range of comic situations. Classes at Grandma University include such useful subjects as "Bottoms Up" (the art of fine diapering), "Gah-Gahs, Goo-Goos, & Giggles" (baby talk for beginners), and "Rock 'n' Read" (repeated, consecutive readings of the same book). Ransom's writing is lively, witty, and well paced. Molly's worry that she won't measure up builds to an effective and satisfying conclusion. Corvino's curvy, exuberant watercolor-and-colored-pencil drawings, dominated by shades of sunny yellow and cheery green, are a perfect accompaniment to the text. The exaggerated characterizations are wonderfully silly, especially of the grannies at recess or practicing their goofy faces with hand-held mirrors. This visually appealing, contemporary tale is perfect for, but not limited to, intergenerational sharing, especially for those grandmothers who have taken "Rock 'n' Read 101" at their local university. Children will ask for this one over and over again.
Carol L. MacKay, Camrose Public Library, Alberta, Canada
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Kirkus Reviews, August 15,2002
...the buffed and cheery illustrations elevate what is essentially a picture book for grandmothers.
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