Back of Book:
ou asked for a special house for your dolls; but instead, Grandpa gives you a toolbox! What do you do? Launching it into outer space is a bad idea. So is feeding it to a T. rex! Instead, be patient, pay attention, and you might find that you’re pretty handy. And just maybe, with grandpa’s help, you’ll get that dollhouse after all. This clever story celebrates kindness, hard work, and community, as well as variety in gender expression: the male main character proudly engages in activities that might be considered typically girl (playing with dolls) and typically boy (building with tools).
My Review:
I received a copy of this picture book from Sterling Children’s Books in exchange for an honest review.
My students loved reading “When Grandma Gives you a Lemon Tree” and I knew that the sequel “When Grandpa Gives you A Tool Box” would be another huge hit.
The story follows a young boy as he anticipates a wonderful birthday present from his grandpa. When he is presented with a toolbox he is discouraged and imagines ways that the toolbox can disappear. When the boy realizes that the toolbox can be used to help others, it opens his eyes to the needs of his community. Jamie does a beautiful job of showcasing how wonderful it can be to do things for others. The end of the story shows the young boy getting his wish of a dollhouse while making plans to create a neighborhood treehouse. The illustrations by Lorraine Rocha are bright and full of small important details. My students especially loved following the small dog throughout the story. The most beautiful aspect of the illustrations of grey and gold ribbons that represent Jamie’s’ husband Ricky and his fight with a brain tumor. This story is very inspirational and has a beautiful message of holding your loved ones a little tighter and enjoying the time you have with them.
Ages 5 and up
32 Pages
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