Sometimes creative and inventive grandparents can provide the best solutions for the disappointments a child may encounter. In Grandma’s Beach, Grandma creates the fun of a beach atmosphere in her backyard when Emily’s mom is unexpectedly called to the office at the start of their summer outing. And in Grandpa’s Surprise (1-58234-934-7), Grandpa shows Stanley how to make a special go-kart from an old wooden crate and stroller wheels after young neighbor Jack refuses to share his shiny new tricycle. The very spare texts are fleshed out by full-bleed, oversized paintings in bright primary colors that nicely express both Emily’s and Stanley’s unspoken thoughts and feelings. A subtle and positively uplifting duo that will easily help any child through those inevitable crestfallen moments in life. (Picture book. 3-5)
