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Is there any doubt that grandmothers are important? Not according to research, and not according to the authors of these eight picture books about grandmothers. We are constantly on the lookout for the best picture books about grandmas, and these are our current favorites.

If you haven’t encountered our book recommendations before, here’s what you need to know: We don’t recommend stories that rely on overly-sentimental storylines, merchandising TV shows or movies, or stereotyped characters. We looked for picture books with strong, individual grandmothers and storylines that children can relate to. The best picture books are also fun to read out loud, have original, human created artwork and stand the test of time.

Each of these books features a grandmother with a special relationship with her grandchild. These books make great grandchildren gifts to celebrate your own special relationship. They also make good gifts for new grandmothers! Which of these picture books will you pick?

I Really Want to See You, Grandma
​by Taro Gomi
​
Originally published in Japan, this delightful story tells the tale of Yumi and her grandmother’s frustrating attempts to visit one another. Its simple words and expressive pictures will appeal to the youngest grandchildren. 

When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree
by Jamie L. B. Deenihan
​illustrated by Lorraine Rocha

This was a favorite of the grands, especially the six year-old. The grandmother in this book plays a small but key role in the story. The humor and colorful pictures share more than one important message, all wrapped up in an engaging plot. 

Nana in the City
by Lauren Castillo
​
A Caldecott Honor book, Castillo’s wonderful images fill a book about perspective and the influence a grandparent can have on a child’s experience. Nana’s love for her grandson and his love for her come shining through the simple story. Don’t miss Nana in the Country, which explores how a child can share their world with an adult, as well.

​Abuela
by Arthur Dorros
​illustrated by Elisa Kleven

The colorful, intricate illustrations take the reader on a magical trip through New York City with Rosalba and her abuela. With lots of Spanish words, a focus on family and references to immigration, this book can be a springboard for meaningful conversations with children. 

Last Stop on Market Street 
by Matt De La Pena
illustrated by Christian Robinson

The relationship between CJ and his nana is an integral part of this award-winning story, and their bus trip across town is long enough to show how important Nana is to molding CJ’s experience of the world. The lyrical text is fun to read out loud to your grands.

The Hello, Goodbye Window
by Norton Juster
illustrated by Chris Raschka

Nanna and Poppy's Window is the lens through which we see a delightful relationship between grandparent and grandchild. It stands up to repeated readings--even three in a row! Each time we read it, we have a different conversation inspired by the book.

How to Babysit a Grandma
by Jean Reagan
illustrated by Lee Wildish

Perfect for reading with Grandma! Babysitting a grandma requires doing all the things she loves to do with her grandchildren. The silly premise and playful illustrations will make your grandchildren giggle.

​A Grandma’s Magic
by Charlotte Offsay
illustrated by Asa Gilland

This one is a perfect gift for grandmothers. The story is lovely: the sentiment is sweet without being cloying and the words flow beautifully for reading aloud. The charming illustrations by Asa Gilland depict modern grandmothers of all sorts.

Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs by Tomie de Paolo

Tomie de Paolo’s story of his relationship with his grandmothers is moving and beautifully drawn. It’s a more serious than some of our recommendations, but it’s an excellent story to share with a grandchild who may have to say goodbye to a beloved member of the family.

Looking for books about grandfathers? You can see some of our picks here!