Get Well Soon, Grandpa! by A. Swerts & J. Bakker

Abstract

Swerts, An, and Jenny Bakker. Get Well Soon, Grandpa! New York: Clavis, 2013. Print. Get Well Soon, Grandpa! is written by An Swerts and beautifully illustrated by Jenny Bakker. This 2013 English edition is translated from the original Dutch title, Lieve opa, ik help je wel (2012). It tells the heart-warming story of a caring strawberry-haired girl, Faye, her doting Grandpa Bert, and their experiences of dealing with Grandpa Bert’s unexpected health issue, a stroke.The story starts with Faye’s exciting sleepover with Grandpa Bert. Their close relationship and fun together are evident in their messy pancake-cooking, habitual bedtime stories, and Faye’s special role in Grandpa Bert’s morning shaving rituals. The story is well paced and satisfyingly realistic and whimsical. Young readers would gain insight that a stroke can happen suddenly, and a child, like Faye, can react calmly and appropriately. The medical aspect of stroke is skillfully and aptly explained through colourful lovely images and Faye’s simple questions and dialogue with a gentle physician. The story shows that when an aging relative sustains a stroke, it can be a confusing, stressful, and worrisome time for both young children and adults, as experienced by Faye and Faye’s mother. For passionate and eager Faye, being unfamiliar with the hospital environment and rules, she devises a special and bold plan to make sure Grandpa Bert’s hospital stay is not lonely over the summer, and that he gets to see his dog, Toby.Another noteworthy element of the story is that it superbly highlights the multidisciplinary and rehabilitative nature of stroke therapy with visits from Tom, the physical therapist, and Lena, the speech therapist. Their interactions with Grandpa Bert and Faye are friendly and beneficial. Finally, the move-in of Grandpa Bert to Faye’s home and her ability to help with Grandpa Bert’s exercises and activities of daily living indicate the importance of family’s love, adjustment and involvement in the healing process.With an age-appropriate portrayal of stroke and its manifestation, and the admirable bond between a grandparent and grandchild, this is an excellent book for public libraries and elementary school libraries.Highly recommended: 4 stars out of 4Reviewer: Liza ChanLiza Chan is a Research Librarian, cross-appointed at Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions and University of Alberta John W. Scott Health Sciences Libraries. She is also a proud auntie to 2 nephews, with whom she often enjoys visiting local libraries.