Grandad's Pride (Grandad's Camper)

Gr 1-4--During a summer visit to her grandfather's house, Milly roots around in the attic and digs out an old rainbow flag. This discovery prompts Grandad to recall his happy memories of Pride parades he attended years ago with his late husband, affectionately known in the family as Gramps (first recounted in the excellent Grandad's Camper). Milly, excited by the vivid accounts, decides to organize a parade right there in Grandad's little village. While the story is sweet and full of positivity, the writing eventually begins to falter. Multiple pieces of dialogue and descriptions of Pride read like an educational pamphlet, and Woodgate inserts inspirational platitudes that--however well-intentioned--distract from the earnest first-person narrative. The text's strongest moments arise from the quiet, evocative details that flesh out the lives of Grandad and the charming village residents: Mr. Singh's rainbow carrots, Temi's delicious bakery, Fleur and Ayo's glitter-strewn costume-making session. The vivid colors of the cheerful flat-style art draw readers into a warm, supportive modern community. VERDICT Though it does not quite live up to the promise of its predecessor, this book will prove meaningful to children and families with connections to the history and continuing tradition of Pride.--Jonah Dragan