As a digital subscriber, you’ll receive unlimited access to Horn Book web exclusives and extensive archives, as well as access to our highly searchable Guide/Reviews Database.
To access other site content, visit The Horn Book homepage.
To continue you need an active subscription to hbook.com.
Subscribe now to gain immediate access to everything hbook.com has to offer, as well as our highly searchable Guide/Reviews Database, which contains tens of thousands of short, critical reviews of books published in the United States for young people.
Thank you for registering. To have the latest stories delivered to your inbox, select as many free newsletters as you like below.
No thanks. Return to article
132 pp.
| Gecko |
April, 2019 |
TradeISBN 978-1-776572-33-5$17.99
|
PaperISBN 978-1-776572-34-2$11.88
(2)
4-6
Translated by Julia Marshall.
Illustrated by
Kitty Crowther.
This Swedish import is an unvarnished portrait of old age. In the hospital with a broken leg and a failing heart, Grandpa is furious and foul-mouthed. His only ally is his affectionate and admiring grandson, who helps carry out an elaborate secret breakout. Every emotional effect is fully earned, and the final beat is deeply affecting. Full-page colored-pencil illustrations match the text in being simultaneously homely and honest.
Reviewer: Sarah Ellis
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
May, 2019