  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 05/03/2024 Gr 2–4—Following the Caldecott Honor Book Nana in the City, Nana visits her grandson in the country. Eager to share his knowledge, the grandson enthusiastically involves Nana in the daily chores of caring for the animals on the farm. However, his excitement wanes when he realizes that Nana already possesses extensive knowledge of farm life. Disappointment turns to surprise when a sudden thunderclap startles them awake one night, revealing a runaway sheep outside their window. In a moment of quick thinking, the grandson employs a clever trick to guide the sheep back to its enclosure, impressing Nana with his ingenuity. As their time together unfolds, the pair continues to tend to the animals and enjoy each other's company until Nana's departure. The story's charm is enhanced by its watercolor and pastel illustrations, accentuated by ink outlines, which vividly bring the narrative to life. VERDICT This heartwarming tale of intergenerational connection, complemented by its inviting artwork, is a delightful addition to any library or collection.—Kirsten Caldwell - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 02/01/2024 A boy eagerly awaits the arrival of Nana, his grandmother, who will be taking care of him while his parents are away. He plans to show her around his family’s farm and introduce her to country life. Will she feel nervous around the livestock and the insects? Nana arrives, but to his surprise (perhaps slightly tinged with disappointment), she seems quite at home on the farm. That night, a thunderstorm wakens them. A sheep has escaped, and the boy herds it back into its pen, winning Nana’s applause. The next day, she’s impressed as she watches him do his chores. To Nana, the country is both wild and friendly. But nothing in it is more magical than her grandson. Well-paced and simply written, the narrative reads aloud well. This sequel features the boy who visited his grandmother in Castillo’s Caldecott Honor Book Nana in the City (2014). The differences between the books’ locations are evident in the vibrant illustrations, ink drawings brightened with watercolors and pastels. A pleasing picture book portraying a strong grandmother–grandson relationship. - Copyright 2024 Booklist. Loading...
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