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[Saturday Reads] Sweetness Overload in “My Grandpa” and “Me Tall, You Small”

Fats here.

Three hours ago, I was having a horrible bout of sinus allergy (itchy, watery eyes + runny nose + sneezing). I took the only allergy pill I could rely on. Unfortunately, it’s the kind that makes me drowsy. I’m trying to fight the urge to sleep as we speak.

Being in such a terrible state (allergy symptoms have subsided but now I feel tired), I wasn’t sure exactly what to write about. As I rummaged through the books I brought home from the library, I found two adorable picturebooks that I think parents and kids would love. These short and sweet tales about love and family make for great read-alouds and bedtime stories. I don’t know about you, but I am a sucker for these kinds of books.

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satreads0708aMy Grandpa

Written and illustrated by Marta Altés
Published by Abrams Books for Young Readers (2013)
ISBN: 978-1419705885

Summary via Amazon: A moving and memorable book about the very special relationship between an elderly grandfather and his adoring grandson, this unique look at old age through the eyes of a young bear is big-hearted, poignant and beautifully observed. A stunning picture book debut from Marta Altes, an exciting new writing and illustrating talent.

satreads0708b

With minimal text and spare illustrations, My Grandpa tenderly depicts the bond between grandfather and grandchild, especially during those times when grandpa experiences memory lapse. The book has a perfect ending to such a heartfelt story.

satreads0708cMe Tall, You Small

Written and illustrated by Lilli L’Arronge
Translated by Madeleine Stratford
First published in Germany by Verlagshaus Jacoby & Stuart (2014)
Published in the U.S. by Owlkids Books Inc. (2017)
ISBN: 978-1771471947

Summary via Goodreads: Me Tall, You Small is a series of playful vignettes in the daily life of a pair of weasels, parent and child. Whether they are having a bubble bath, kicking a soccer ball, or eating ice cream together, simple paired phrases showcase their loving—and amusingly realistic—relationship. After a fall: You boo-boo. Me bandage. At bedtime: Me tired. You wired.

MeTallYouSmall_PAGES_English_V4.indd

A few weeks ago, while I was in charge of locking up the library, my eyes fell upon Lilli L’Arronge’s picturebook. Measuring only 7.9 in x 7.9 in (according to Amazon), Me Tall, You Small is so stinkin’ cute! Not only does it show the relationship between a parent and a child, it also describes how they are different from one another. The vignettes are told in the parent’s perspective. Brilliant wordplay and super cute illustrations! Definitely a must-read!


Revisit these other stories of love, tenderness, and absolute charm:

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