Publication Nov. 2, 2026
There's so much more to our family history than we realize.
I adore this heartwarming, creative series. Thanks to author #MichelleOlson for sharing this early copy. As you can surely tell from the cover, the characters are not human but still manage to convey a depth of feeling that touches the reader and always seems to offer up a gentle reminder of family and family ties as well as friendships. In this case, Norman (the red button) is more or less drafted by his busy mother to visit Grandpa Henry who lives in a dusty old cookie tin in a closet. Norman is reluctant as he finds his visits frequently boring and is bothered that Grandpa frequently calls him Herman. Never mind, Norman. We know you're going anyway. Grin.
The colorful, clever illustrations are all, so to speak, make from "found items" by the author, many from her own family home. Hence the book not only tells us what's going on in the story but shows it, too. Nothing too elaborate but all quite creative and well done. You'll find out, for instance, how Norman gets to Grandpa's as well as catch a glimpse of his family he finds as he helps Grandpa clean. Oh, okay. Mostly Norman cleans as Grandpa does enjoy his naps. Among the items encountered I grinned at the bowling image, marveling at the "Of course!" items used to create it while also knowing I'd have been hard pressed to come up with something so simply yet perfect. The pictures Norman finds of family members are adorable, too, one family member perched on the uniform of a baseball player's uniform while, yes, that's Norma's mother as a little girl! (On a photo of the author's own mother).
But, wait! There's actually a real Herman in Grandpa's past. Nope, not sharing that info, nor how it does tied to what little Norman discovers he really knew about Grandpa. Bottom line, the message of it being well worth learning about our family's background rings loud and clear here. Norman discovers his "boring" ol' grandpa isn't boring at all. I loved that the author included her own mother's childhood picture in this homage of sorts to family. I've worked on my own family tree off and on over the years and am still constantly surprised and impressed at what I've discovered. Again, thanks #MichelleOlson for the early peek at this family connections, so to speak, reminder. Even better, done with a smile and an easy read that should bring a smile to all ages. Finally, readers, if you're like to know more, check out belliebuttonbooks.com for free printable activities.
