Most children at some stage of their lives lose a close family member or friend. This story tells a child's experience of a much-loved grandfather getting old, becoming unwell, and dying. The story also shows that people celebrate death in different ways. The family's response to the death of their much-loved grandfather reflects the multi-cultural make-up of New Zealand. Pakeha (European), Maori and Pacific Island traditions and beliefs are interwoven into the family's response. The story creates an opportunity for adults and children to talk and think about death.

 

There are 40 pages in this book. This book was published 2006 by Raupo Publishing (NZ) Ltd .

Melanie Drewery is a popular New Zealand author who has written the popular Nanny Mihi books and, more recently, Matariki and The Treasure. She is a talented potter who lives with her family in Nelson. Bruce Potter is well known for his beautiful illustrations in a number of Reed books, most recently The Donkey Man. He lives with his family in South Auckland.