Grandpa’s Noises

The gorgeous illustrations in this appealing picture book put a smile on your face every time you read it. The text is pitched just right at littlies who would be sharing the book, yet it explores many noises an older person’s body may make and demystifies them, whilst showing they are normal. Adults can easily relate to the text too – we all know someone who blows their nose really loudly or makes a puffing sound when they exert a little energy. And of course, children will find the noise that escapes from Grandpa’s bottom just hilarious (and very similar to Dad’s!).

If reading the book aloud, I recommend the reader firstly reads the book to themself, so they do not trip up on the words that Grandpa strings together, or making the noises as they crop up. You don’t want to lose the humour because it is your first reading. Besides, you’ll be keen to read the book again once you get to the end, and you can guarantee your audience will ask for it to be read more than once at each sitting!

This book will encourage youngsters to be more understanding and accepting of body noises and may also help them to sympathise with those who have to suffer screeching hearing aids.

Title: Grandpa’s Noises

Author: Gareth St John Thomas

Illustrator: Colin Rowe

Publisher: EK Books (an imprint of Exisle Publishing)

ISBN: 978-1-925335-98-9

RRP: $24.99

Format: Hardback

Date of Publication: June 2019

Ages: 3+

Reviewer’s name, job title, school name & region: Nadine Molloy, Assistant Librarian, Remarkables Primary School, Queenstown

How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? When I arrive at Grandpa’s, he makes a noise like a rusty gate opening.