Battle of the Grandmas

Battle of the Grandmas

By Anthonette Klinkerman

Illustrator: Justin Acquavella
Grandmas are the coolest people on this planet and they often go that more than extra mile when it comes to their grandchildren. But, sometimes even the best of Grandmas go too far and her is what happens when three adorable, meaning well grandmothers go head to head to compete for the grandmother you might say of the year award or the one who gives their granddaughter the best presents. Poor Madelyn is caught in the center of a huge grandma mess. Based on a real story Granma, Granny and Nana go head to head to make sure that their presents for their granddaughter are the best. But, what happens when they go too far and someone sends them a message that will hopefully change their outlook and help them understand that not every child needs to be bribed with gifts, showered with money or tons of candy. Some just might want something else.

What would happen if three women walked into a party wearing the same dress? Now imagine three grandmothers buying their granddaughter the same present and the expression on their faces when they find out they are all the same. Online, shopping, hoping to find the right gift the battle is on with six grandparents and tons or relatives poor Madelyn would be more than just covered in presents. Grandparents often think that the only way their grandchildren will want to see them is if they present them with tons of presents. No so! I loved just being in the same room with my grandmother, watching her cook things from scratch and just telling her about my day. Some think that they need to be the best and the favorite one! The illustrations are priceless as younger readers can appreciate the story as the see the house fill up with presents, the music boxes, the sweaters and the perplexed face on poor little girl as she has to figure out what to do about all of the gifts without hurting anyone’s feelings. The funniest picture is of the postman who reminds me of mine when he’s bringing me books to review while trying to hold on to the regular mail.
But, what happens when the house fills up too much and poor Madelyn cannot take it anymore? What would make her happier than all the presents in the world? Why would she not want sweaters, DVD’s , shirts, stuffed toys, dresses and tons more? What would make this amazing little girl happy? Some children just want to be loved while others prefer to be spoiled. Some children want to spend quality time with their grandparents and parents doing fun stuff together while others would rather be showered with gifts. Justin Acquavella might be a high school senior but his illustrations are first rate and really bring the grandmothers and Madelyn to life in full color. The facial expressions the scenes that depict her frustrations and the final outcome are so well illustrated and vividly created that non-readers will understand the story and read it over and over again. Some children just want candy and this precious child wanted something much more valuable. To find out what Madelyn did with all of the presents that her three grandmothers gave her and what she wanted instead you need to read The Battle of the Grandmas and find out just how Madelyn wins.

Told in rhyming form and beautifully illustrated the Battle of the Grandmas can teach all children the importance of family love, spending time together doing things that are fun for everyone and just being a family. Material things are nice and great to have but they should not be the most paramount thing in anyone’s life and I think young children, young adults and grown ups can learn the true meaning of love, understanding and family relationships from reading this book.

Fran Lewis: Just Reviews