Encyclopedia of Grannies
on Goodreads (108)
What’s inside...
Encyclopedia of Grannies by Éric Veillé is a humorous and charming picture book that answers children's curious questions about grannies. It covers topics such as why grandmas wear their hair up, how they do yoga, and what the contents of a granny’s bed are. The book features comic-style illustrations and witty word play, making it a contemporary gift for the whole family. It celebrates the diversity and uniqueness of grannies, challenging cliches and offering a fresh perspective on modern-day grandmothers. Each page is dedicated to a quirky topic and combines to make a highly original encyclopedia for children; from buses – no one knows where grannies go – to the contents of a granny’s bed - sighs, regrets and sometimes a grandpa. Illustrated with funny comic-style pictures, this is a contemporary gift book full of word play, for the entire family to enjoy. With witty and bright graphic illustrations, this encyclopedia challenges the cliches and celebrates the grannies in our lives – no matter what kind of grandma, abuela, nana or nonna you have, you are or would like to be. Inside every granny, there’s a small house, and in that house is that same granny when she was a little girl. That’s where she still lives. A chic gift book that will appeal to all ages. Fantastic to give to grandparents, new grandmothers, for Mother’s Day, or as a celebratory gift for the entire family.
Discussion points
Why do you think grannies know so much about many different things?
What are some of the funniest or most interesting things your granny or an older person you know has told you?
How do grannies in the book show their love and care for others?
If you could ask a granny any question, what would it be and why?
How are the grannies in the book similar to or different from grannies you know?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing a story about your own grandparents or an elderly person you respect. Encourage your child to think of grannies as sources of wisdom and fun. While reading, point out the different roles grannies play in the book, and connect these roles to real-life examples they might recognize. Ask open-ended questions to help your child express their feelings and thoughts about aging and the elderly. Finish by asking your child how they might answer the book’s questions differently, fostering a deeper connection to the content.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The book humorously explores the different traits and lifestyles of grannies around the world, showcasing their uniqueness and breaking stereotypes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect the diverse backgrounds and characteristics of the elderly in their community.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: Through its playful questions and answers, the book encourages children to inquire about the roles and experiences of grandparents, thereby promoting curiosity.
Real-World Application: This can foster a habit of asking questions and seeking knowledge about family history and different cultures in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Family bonding
Explanation: The book depicts various activities grannies do, which can be shared with grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of spending quality time with family members.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities like cooking or storytelling with their grandparents, strengthening family bonds.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By showing grannies in various states, from active to requiring care, it opens a discussion about aging and the needs of older adults.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to develop empathy and offer help or company to older family members or neighbors.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book uses whimsical illustrations and creative scenarios to depict the lives of grannies, inspiring imaginative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their imagination to create stories or drawings about their own grandparents or imagine adventures they can have together.