THE GRANDMA CURE

Squabbling grandmothers remind sick-in-bed Becky of her kindergarten classmates. Young Becky catches a cold and her two grandmothers come to the rescue, Sophie on the first day with orange juice and chicken soup, and Rosalie on the second with tea and rice pudding. But on the third day of Becky’s convalescence, both grandmas show up and competitive chaos ensues. As they jockey for position and nurturing points, the grandmas’ behavior triggers classroom memories for Becky. Her teacher Ms. Chu has taught her to take turns and share. Becky passes these lessons along and by the afternoon, everyone is playing together harmoniously, including the fluffy cat. Busy illustrations—made with paint, the computer and a light box—add color and wry humor to the story. A middling story with a gentle lesson, though a bit too sophisticated for the low end of its target audience. (Picture book. 3-5)