GRUMPY GRANDPA

This boy’s grandpa never seems to be in a good mood. MacDonald’s appealing, vintage-style illustrations show Grandpa at his worst—shouting, groaning, scowling and even scaring the chickens, supplying a nicely supportive subtext to this boy’s plaint. Believably frustrated, the boy thinks his aunt and uncle are brave for living so close to Grandpa’s farm (he and his parents are only visiting). After trying to cope by drawing imaginative pictures of Grandpa yelling at various objects (television, newspaper, dog), the boy accidentally wakes him, and Grandpa is not happy! The boy’s overheard complaint prompts Grandpa to take him fishing the next day, but it doesn’t start well. Overturning the boat gets Grandpa in touch with his inner grandson, which leads to a discussion and the beginnings of a better relationship. Gentle humor makes this a nice choice for helping children understand anger and frustration in themselves as well as impatience and inflexibility in others, although the pat resolution may conflict with some children’s reality. Suitable for home, classroom and therapeutic use. (Picture book. 4-7)