Two children remember their departed grandfathers’ love in Bradbury’s picture book.

Amber (who has brown skin and black hair) and Nate (who is fair-skinned and has brown hair) remember their grandfathers and moments they spent together. Amber recalls “waiting to see his green Chevy pick-up truck rumble up the driveway” and going off on an adventure. For Nate, learning “how to catch the biggest fish in the pond” and clapping as it was released and swam away comes to mind. Learning to ride a bicycle, eating tomatoes right out of the garden, and going to the park together elicit feelings of love and togetherness. Each double-page spread features a beautiful color illustration by Johnson reflecting the particular memory. As the book ends, the author lovingly shares, “If Grandpa were here... ...and he IS here, inside your heart and mind. Because his love and memory will always be with you, each and every day.” The story includes reflections from the older Amber and Nate on changes (and surprises) that occurred in their lives as they grew up. The illustrations add depth to the story as they demonstrate the closeness of each child to their grandparent as they spend time together. The details evoke simpler times, eating banana splits, fishing, and going to ballgames.

Warmth, love, family, and memories bring joy in this poignant tribute to grandpas.

Children spend time with their grandmothers in this debut picture book.

Using the refrain “If Grandma were here,” the story depicts three kids interacting with their two grandmothers. The children are shown with alternating women in various scenarios. They participate in activities such as visiting a museum, gardening, playing a game, building a sand castle, and more. An unnamed narrator reminds readers of Grandma’s caring nature, how she would “stretch her arms out wide to show how much she loves you.” Readers will infer that the grandmothers are no longer alive, as the narrator tells them that Grandma “is always here, inside you, right here in your heart.” Also included is a poem from Grandma to her grandchildren. She reminds them of her love and support, telling them to search for her in the sky and “give a wave and blow a kiss. Tell me all the things I’ve missed.” Bradbury’s sweet story evokes emotions that will be relatable to youngsters who have lost a loved one. Corbett’s illustrations are bright and cheerful, deftly mirroring happenings in the uplifting text. Most of the characters have brown eyes, dark skin, and dark hair. Several of the images offer dreamy elements, like a sparkling, starry sky backdrop. At the end, the pictures portray the grandmothers as angels in the sky while the children gaze out a window.

A charming and thoughtful tribute to beloved grandmothers.