How could I resist a picture book titled Grandmas are Greater than Great? I was captivated by Kaitlyn Sanchez’s interview with author James Solheim on her blog Math is Everywhere and knew immediately that I would have to buy this book for my granddaughter’s tenth birthday later in the year.
When I was turning ten, my grandfather impressed on me how grown up I was becoming now that I had reached double figures. I’d never forgotten how important it had made me feel. When my grandson turned ten, I wrote him a letter telling him about the significant milestone and what my grandfather said to me. With his little sister’s tenth birthday fast approaching, I knew I had to do something similar for her, but not the same. Solheim’s book seemed just the thing, so I ordered it immediately. I wasn’t disappointed. (I wasn’t disappointed either when I received a free copy from the author, simply because I’d commented on Kaitlyn’s blog. How awesome is that!)
About James Solheim
James Solheim’s books circle the globe and travel through centuries. They explore the wackiest foods on earth and tell the stories of history through our grandmas.
Born in rural North Dakota in the U.S., he grew up mostly in Missouri. As a child he wrote and illustrated his own books and looked for lost civilizations and dinosaur bones in his backyard.
He met his eventual wife when he was assigned to sit by her at a spelling bee in eighth grade, with the result that he misspelled “paisley.” She is now a scientist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Their two children are imaginative, talented grownups—grown up compared to their dad, that is.
Invite James to your school or organization to give one of his “Think Big!” presentations. These programs help kids set big goals and see the importance of books in reaching them.
He’ll even do an online visit with your school or book group!
About Grandmas are Greater than Great
Grandmas Are Greater Than Great is a humorous, animated, and informative look at the lasting power of ancestors. Explore families, generations, and kid power in this heartfelt collaboration between James Solheim and bestselling illustrator Derek Desierto.
Everyone has two grandmas, and every grandma has her own two grandmas. This cycle continues back through time and history.
Traveling from generation to generation, this dynamic picture book offers young readers a bird’s-eye view of how daily life has changed over time. But despite all the differences, one thing has remained the same: a grandma’s love.
James Solheim’s lively text and Derek Desierto’s exuberant illustrations capture the delights and challenges each daughter, mother, and grandma encountered through the centuries. This rich multigenerational story explores the idea that we are all the product of those who came before us, and it will be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Grandmas Are Greater Than Great includes basic information on exponential growth and a family tree. It’s a gift of a book for all ages to read with their families, friends, or on their own.
My Review
Continue reading: Grandmas are Greater than Great by James Solheim – Readilearn
Norah Colvin 
Multigenerational stories are so important. Looks great!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a lovely book, Jennie. 💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great cover and title. This adorable book will appeal to a lot of children who have special relationships with their grandparents. Enjoyed the interview with Derek, who has so many special things to share!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree with you, Patricia. It is a lovely book and helps children see those who have come before to make them just who they are. I’m pleased you enjoyed the interview with James.
LikeLike
His drawings are unique. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Unique is a good word for them. They are delightful.
LikeLike
How marvellous. A book about Grandmothers is perfect. I took my great granddaughter to see the grave of my great grandmother. Children need to know where they come from. She comes from a long line of strong women. James would be a great author to have visit a school, in person or on line.
LikeLiked by 1 person
How wonderful for your granddaughter to make that visit with you, Darlene. We are all children of survivors – all strong women.
James does school visits, in person or online. I’m sure they would be fantastic.
LikeLiked by 1 person
great title indeed, and James looks like a super enthusiastic achiever … what a lovely treat for your tenth 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree with you about James, Kate. I’m looking forward to celebrating my granddaughter’s birthday. I don’t know where the years have gone.
LikeLiked by 1 person
as a child I remember they lasted forever, waiting for that next big birthday to grow up … then suddenly – after 30 – it zooms by at lightning speed!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wait until you hit twice that and more – then you’ll see how fast they travel. 🤣
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Norah, this sounds like a wonderful book. Honouring grandmas is a marvelous idea. We are celebrating my mom’s 83 birthday on Sunday.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a lovely book, Robbie. Such a wonderful idea, and I love the way Derek Desierto has illustrated it too.
Happy birthday to you Mum!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great title! I love that James passed on this tradition to his grandson. I used to live in rural North Dakota, so now I’m curious where he lived.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree with you about the title.
Maybe you were neighbours at one time. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Grandmas are Greater than Great by James Solheim – #readilearn
LikeLike
looks like a wonderful book, and James seems like a fun guy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree with you on both counts. I guess the name helps. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
👍
LikeLiked by 1 person
you had me at the title! looks great –
LikeLiked by 1 person
That was my reaction entirely. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person