Ziefert, Harriett

With Love From Grandma

Illustrated by Deborah Kogan Ray. 2004. 27pp. $9.95 hc. Sterling Publishing Co. 1-4027-1703-2. Grades K-2

When Nana comes to visit and spreads a brightly colored afghan on Katie as she is tucked into bed, it sparks Katie’s curiosity about the story behind the afghan. Nana then tells Katie all about when she was a little girl and her grandmother had loved to knit. Her grandmother (Katie’s great-great grandmother) had allowed her to pick out the colors of yarn and she watched and helped as the yarn became a beautiful afghan. In one corner she had embroidered: With love from Grandma – November 1955. And now Nana gives this afghan to Katie as a gift that Katie can pass on to her children or grandchildren.

This heartwarming story is sure to be a bedtime favorite. The reference to a timeless keepsake like an afghan is important for youngsters to realize in this age of throwaway items. The illustrations will remind you of your own grandma. The story is a bit predictable, but touching. Recommended. Diane Brackman, Business Education Instructor, Norcross High School, Norcross, Georgia