#kidlit: Observing Nature with Grandma is a Slowpoke

Are you the type to stop and smell the roses?

I have to admit that when we go for a hike in my family, I’m the one who always gets left behind. Not only do I smell the roses, I check for insects, admire the colors and probably take a photograph or two. That’s why I really enjoyed Janet Halfmann‘s new picture book, Grandma Is a Slowpoke, illustrated by Michele Coxon.

Told in the first person from the point of view of a young girl, this sweet story takes the reader on a walk through the woods. The girl is eager to be off, but Grandma is a slowpoke. She wants to stop and observe the animals around her. They discover much as they watch squirrels, geese and even ants along the way.

Even though the story might seem simple on the surface, it actually runs deep with meaning. It is a commentary on the importance of slowing down in our fast, fast, rush, rush society. It is also a gentle commentary on what time spent with grandmothers might have to offer. With the increasing fragmentation of families, our culture may be forgetting the enormous value of a little quality time with an older relative.

The back matter includes two pages of additional animal facts about the animals encountered in the story.

Grandma is a Slowpoke is perfect for sharing at story time, at bedtime, and any time in between. With so much to discover in these pages, be prepared to read it again and again.

Where is your favorite place to take a nature walk?

Publisher: Star Bright Books (February 15, 2016)
ISBN-10: 1595727108
ISBN-13: 978-1595727107

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