Reviews

Following Grandfather by Rosemary Wells, Christopher Denise

pacifickle's review against another edition

3.0

First three chapters are great, but the last two speed along much faster and the conflict is resolved too quickly with no explanation. Too many words like "crenellated," "cockles," and "puttanesca" for a shorter early chapter book like this. It's like second grade length with seventh grade concepts and vocabulary. As an adult, the book was very charming, but I would not suggest it to an average middle grade reader.

pickett22's review against another edition

4.0

I got an advanced reader copy of this, so the illustrations weren't finished, but what was there was really lovely. The details in this book are what draws me to it the most. It was read aloud to me on a car ride, and I thoroughly enjoyed the imagery Wells uses to set the stage and bring her mice to life. I appreciated her examination of a child's grief, and found it to be a lovely little story.
Very nice.

kkop12's review against another edition

4.0

I really liked this book a lot. I am a big fan of Max and Ruby, but the author showed a much more sentimental side and approached the topic of death in a conforting way. Grabbed it off the library shelf because I liked the cover. Abby read it first and then recommended it to me :-) Love that my seven year old is making recommendations :-)

muddypuddle's review against another edition

3.0

Loved the writing, loved the first half of the story, something was missing once grandfather died....that she though she saw him around town was never delved into deeply enough or SOMETHING...something just wasn't right for me....

sean67's review against another edition

5.0

Beautifully written and illustrated book dealing with the subject of death and grief in a way that is hovering near the fantasy elements but is grounded in a world view we all can comprehend. The characters are so achingly believable and charming at the same time, and the story is relevant to anyone who has lost a loved one.
An honest and wonderful way to introduce the reality of death and grief to those of a younger age, in a way that all ages can enjoy and be nourished by.

gelatolady's review against another edition

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25