  | Just like grandma Author: Rogers, Kim | |
| Price: $22.58 | ||
Summary:
Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, "Let me try," Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful. Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma. And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma.
| Illustrator: | Flett, Julie |
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: LG Reading Level: 3.60 Points: .5 Quiz: 520221 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (12/01/22)
School Library Journal (+) (12/15/23)
Booklist (+) (12/01/23)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (00/04/23)
The Hornbook (00/01/23)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 12/01/2022 *Starred Review* This outstanding picture-book debut by Rogers (Wichita and Affiliated Tribes) presents a joyous, uplifting celebration of culture and family. Becca is an Indigenous child whose grandma is a loving role model and mentor in her life. Intently watching her elder’s artistic pursuits (beading buckskin moccasins, painting a colorful sunrise, and Fancy Shawl dancing at the weekend powwow), the child unequivocally knows she wants to be “just like Grandma.” Excited with inspiration, Becca says, “Let me try,” and Grandma passes down her knowledge. Supportively side by side, they create, play, and learn together every day, “until the sun dips below the sun line,” when Grandpa calls them in for a nourishing meal. The eloquent text has a lyrical, free-verse cadence and rhythmic refrains. In satisfying, full-circle fashion, Becca has some accomplished moves of her own to share with Grandma, like making the basketball team. Award-winning Swampy Cree–Red River Métis artist Flett’s exquisite pastel, pencil, and collage illustrations radiate warmth, from the closeness of the characters to sunny yellow background hues. Endnotes include a glossary and personal familial reflections from the author. A tender and touching tribute to the loving, reciprocal bonds of intergenerational relationships. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 12/15/2023 PreS-Gr 2—In this captivating work from Rogers, (of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes) and brought to life in the illustrations of Flett (of Cree-Métis descent), Becca closely observes her grandma, aspiring to emulate her. Throughout the narrative, Grandma serves as a guiding force, encouraging Becca to explore new activities such as beading, dancing, painting, and more. In the background, Grandpa expresses his affection through the universal language of food. As the story unfolds, a poignant full-circle moment occurs when Grandma expresses her desire to be just like Becca. The book culminates with a profound realization of the reciprocal nature of the relationship, underscored by a publisher's note emphasizing the importance of Elders. An author's note sheds light on her grandma's influence and the cultural significance of beadwork, both in traditional and contemporary contexts. VERDICT This book comes highly recommended for its heartwarming portrayal of intergenerational relationships and cultural heritage.—Amy Zembroski - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
