Theme: The book, Where is Grandpa? can be used to introduce your students to multigenerational families, parents who have lost their parents or losing a grandparent.

Pre-reading: Show the students the cover of the book, read the title as well as the names of its author and illustrator. Ask them what they think the book will be about.

Reading: As you read, show the class the book’s illustrations and have the students study them. What details can they find in the pictures? Ask them to look closely at the expressions on the faces of the characters. How do they change during the story? Then, ask the students how they think the characters are feeling. Can they tell by the illustrations?

Connecting Generations: Have your class become closer to another generation by interviewing a grandparent or a “grandfriend” who is age 50 or older. Ask questions about their hopes and goals in life. As well as how they pursued their dreams and overcame obstacles. Another great question is how their dreams changed as they got older. (For your convenience, there is an interview activity sheet for your use on this website.)

Interview: Talk with someone who lost a loved one – write their story of how they spent time together.

Literature: Read a book about grief and grandparents. Sad Isn’t Bad by Michaelene Mundy, What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies by Trevor Romain, My Grandma’s Angels by Leah Beck. Look for other books by T.A. Barron and and Chris Soentpiet.

If you enjoyed reading Where is Grandpa? write a review and post it online at Amazon or Barnes and Noble so others can enjoy your reading experience.

 

My Grandparent Interview

Inspired by the book: Grandpa, Where Are You?

Author, T. A. Barron

T.A. Barron grew up in Colorado ranch country, traveled widely as a Rhodes Scholar, managed a successful venture capital business in New York, and then changed careers to become a full-time writer and conservationist. His passion for the wonders of nature, his deep concern for humanity and our fragile planet, and his belief in the heroic potential of every person, radiate through his books—many of which are international bestsellers.