FICTION

Cody and Grandpa's Christmas Tradition

by Gary METIVIER
illus. by Traci Van Wagoner. 32p. Pelican. Sept. 2016. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781455621705.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2—Cody's grandfather usually celebrates Christmas Eve alone, mourning his fallen comrades. This year, Cody leaves the big family celebration, determined to include Grandpa in the fun. In the comfort of his grandfather's lap, Cody learns about the almost miraculous appearance of a bright star during a stormy night in Vietnam and the tradition that this started for Grandpa and his unit. Charlie helps him create a new tradition with family and togetherness, highlighted by yet another seeming miracle. While a little too pat, this story presents a veteran's perspective on the holiday. The text is studded with onomatopoeia, and while it skims over Grandpa's loss, it's never graphic or detailed. Largely dark illustrations serve to emphasize the candlelit, almost hyperexpressive faces of the characters.
VERDICT This intergenerational story is a sentimental read-aloud about the importance of memory and how traditions are made.
Reviewed by Brooke Sheets, Los Angeles Public Library , Oct 01, 2016

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