Timothy and Gramps is on my Tuesday Treasures list for several reasons. It is a very early book by master illustrator Ron Brooks. I think it is good to show students the evolution of an illustrator and identify links between their books. Lastly, I have "been in love" with the illustrations of Ron Brooks ever since I read John Brown, Rose and the midnight cat (1977).
In his book Drawn from the Heart, Ron says: "I remember Monday morning I first saw an old man and a girl walking along holding hands to the school and, on arrival, staying a little apart from the other chatting groups, talking quietly together ... " The man was the grandfather of the little girl and thus the idea for Timothy and Gramps was born. When Ron was living in the village of Frontmell Magna in Dorset he found the perfect setting for Timothy and Gramps.
I was so thrilled to find a copy of Timothy and Gramps in a local charity book sale and it was only $1 and in mint condition.
Timothy is a lonely little boy. He finds it difficult to talk to the other children at school and he never has anything to share during 'show and tell'. Then he thinks of his Gramps. He brings him along to school but his Gramps can only say 'Good morning'. This is not the end though. Gramps goes home and thinks about this problem, and the class and about Timothy. The next day he returns and tells a rollicking story to the class. The ice is broken. The kids enjoy these wild stories and Timothy can now enjoy being with his classmates. This is a gentle story which would be perfect to share when your school holds an event such as Grandparents or Grandfriends day. I do hope you can find a copy of this book in your school library.
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