Bhan’s touching debut children’s story finds infant Molu spending the day with his grandfather, Naanu. Though Molu is just eight months old, he and his grandfather have their own special way of communicating and enjoying each other's company during their playtime. When Naanu’s beard scratches Molu’s face, Naanu quickly shaves it off, prompting a slobbery kiss and happy “Aghaa” from Molu, and when Molu refuses to eat, Naanu wisely distracts him with a cherished picture book. From changing diapers to snack time to story time, Molu and Naanu enjoy a full day of bonding.

Adult readers will treasure Molu and Naanu’s extraordinary connection, and Sathomi Ekanayake’s warm illustrations highlight the different ways that babies bond with their family members. Naanu’s daily caretaking tasks—changing diapers, feeding, and tucking Molu in for a nap—are vividly rendered, their joy and love painting an inspiring narrative, and Ekanayake portrays Molu’s emotions in lifelike, heartwarming detail. Even the pair’s cuddle time during their afternoon rest is adorable, as Molu’s mother and grandmother return from their day to find “their two favorite boys cuddled together in a beautiful, peaceful slumber.”

Bhan’s celebration of the attachment between baby and grandparent is a powerful message, one that will resonate with readers of any age and leave them eager for more adventures with Molu and Naanu. From magic tricks at nap time (including lullabies and a favorite pillow) to rousing games of peekaboo, Naanu truly is a champion grandfather, able to play, comfort, and safeguard Molu at every turn. Goodbye, when it comes, is heartrending, but Naanu once again saves the day by gifting Molu his own toy dog for the ride home. This is the perfect introduction to the memorable moments young ones and family members can create during their quality time together, and Bhan’s tender message of family love is universally appealing.

Takeaway: Touching tribute to the bond between an infant and his grandfather.

Comparable Titles: Jean Reagan's How to Babysit Grandpa, Anne Bowen's When You Visit Grandma & Grandpa.

Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A