Griffin, Molly Beth. Everything Grandma Needs. Anait Semirdzhyan, Illus. Charlesbridge, 07/2026. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-652-6. GRADES Kindergarten–2. ADDITIONAL.
It is time for Grandma to move from her big house into a little condo, which means she has to downsize. Her daughter and granddaughter come to help, but find that there are lots of memories, and objects, to deal with. Eventually they find ways to figure out what to keep and what can go away—either trashed, recycled, or donated—while honoring and experiencing their memories of the items and the house. Grandma gets moved into the new place and all three grow closer together during the process. The pencil-and-watercolor-like illustrations keep the tone light and hopeful, while depicting Grandma, Mom, and kid with light skin. Downsizing is a much-needed topic and is deftly handled for young readers to understand the why and how. Back matter includes resources and ideas to help with moving and downsizing.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library