Gr 3—5—When 10-year-old Jake's mom slips on ice and breaks her leg a few days before Christmas, her hospital stay necessitates a holiday visit from the boy's paternal grandfather. Jake hasn't seen him and has barely spoken to him since Jake's dad died years earlier, and at first he is wary of Granddad and his unlikable little dog. The story of how they all come to appreciate one another is a simple one, relying on interesting characters and a young narrator who, perhaps because he has been raised among strong women, is punctilious about reporting his feelings and reactions to events, even when he doesn't really understand them. No high drama or overwrought emotions here, just some folks—and a dog—coming together as a family. Jake tells his story in a straightforward and often funny way that will resonate with young readers well beyond the holiday season.—Eva Mitnick, Los Angeles Public Library
Ten-year-old Jake's only family is his widowed mom, a limitation he feels keenly when a broken leg lands her in the hospital. When his barely known grandfather comes to stay, the boundaries of Jake's family begin to expand. Set at Christmastime, this is a quiet novel peopled with adult characters; the burgeoning relationship between Jake and Granddad is believably and poignantly drawn.
Be the first reader to comment.
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!