Grandpa's Corner Store

K-Gr 3-Lucy's grandfather owns the local grocery store, and the child is worried that he will be forced to sell and move away from her once a new supermarket opens. Filled with love and determination, she is able to pull the neighborhood together and save her Grandpa's store. DiSalvo-Ryan illustrates how anger at a situation can be turned into something positive and emphasizes the importance of community in our lives. Children will empathize with Lucy and realize that they are not always powerless, that they can make a difference. The soft, colorful illustrations are large, often taking up almost the entire two-page spread. The faces of the people reflect the feelings described in the text. The map on the end pages is an added bonus, paving the way for similar classroom projects. This title would fit well into a social studies lesson on communities.-Sheilah Kosco, Rapides Parish Library, Alexandria, LA Copyright 2000 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Known for her colorful picture books about community activism (Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen) DiSalvo-Ryan addresses the "super-storing" of America in her latest offering. Lucy loves spending time at her Grandpa's corner grocery, where neighbors depend on the personal service. But when construction begins on a giant supermarket around the corner, Lucy and Grandpa fear that Grandpa's shop will be put out of business and he'll have to move away. Before she'll let that happen, Lucy uses her can-do spirit to rally the community on Grandpa's behalf and--at least for now--keep his store afloat. DiSalvo-Ryan again displays her knack for heartening tales that blend family love and neighborhood spirit. Lucy's adoration for Grandpa is palpable, and the community's support is rousing, never pat. Sprightly watercolors depict a vibrant cast of ordinary characters in a small-town setting. Her busy spreads emphasize people and the ways they interact--and the strength they find as they take pride in where they live. Ages 5-up. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.