GRANDPAS, PIRANHAS, AND OTHER STORIES

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.