With her trademark grace and warmth, Patricia MacLachlan (Sarah, Plain and Tall) explores the close bond between grandparent and grandchild and the value of shared memories.
Ten-year-old Jake believes that his 88-year-old grandfather, whom everyone calls "Billy," will live forever. Even Lucy, a stray dog that latches onto Billy, trusts that he will always be there. On most days, Jake and Billy take long walks around their family farm. As they walk, Billy shares his love of nature and tells Jake stories of the sod house where he grew up--a house that fell into disrepair after they built a bigger farmhouse of wood. The sod house forms the heart and soul of Billy's memories, and one day while on their walk, Lucy digs up an old sod brick. Billy is filled with joy at the idea of showing Jake how to build a new sod house. Though Jake feels intimidated by the project, Billy tells him they are "kindred souls." When his grandfather falls ill, Jake is determined to make him proud.
MacLachlan's prose is as spellbindingly lyrical as ever, and her vivid imagery allows us to feel the seasons change along with Jake. Readers will cheer as Jake learns about giving back to his grandfather, who has given so much to him. He also shares the responsibility with his brother and sister so they can build a new sod house for their grandfather together. A wonderful selection to give to a child dealing with the loss of a grandparent, and an uplifting tribute to grandparents everywhere. --Molly McLeod, school librarian