Grandma’s House of Rules

Going to Grandma’s house can be so much fun-unless she has more rules than you can keep track of. Author and illustrator Henry Blackshaw tells the story of a young boy that is excited to spend time with his Grandma but nervous about breaking her very specific rules. Grandma tells her grandson not to leave his dirty dishes on the table, move the porcelain dolls, sit on the special chair, or touch the special blue and white vase. When Grandma steps out to run some errands, the young boy does his best to follow the rules to keep his Grandma happy. One accident triggers a series of unfortunate events that result in a huge mess with many broken rules.

This book can serve as a reminder to adults that language and tone are significant for children. I wish the book would have focused on this aspect- Instead of saying “don’t do this,” adults should explain why the rule is in place and discuss alternate appropriate options. The child is uncomfortable in Grandma’s house and scared of her reaction to his mistakes. However, the story ends with a sweet reminder that Grandma’s love is forever and unconditional.