Inside Grandad: Summary and book reviews of Inside Grandad by Peter Dickinson, plus links to an excerpt from Inside Grandad and a biography of Peter Dickinson.

An unusual and moving story about the magical bond between a boy and his grandfather. Does it just happen that Gavin and Grandad see the seal while they are fishing in the harbor? Just happen that Grandad talks about the selkies, the seal people who can leave the water and take human form? Just happen that Grandad is finishing the beautiful miniature boat he's making for Gavin's tenth birthday, and Gavin decides to call her Selkie? And at that moment, Grandad has his stroke. Could the selkies have something to do with all this Day after day at the hospital, Gavin tries to get through to helpless and speechless Grandad, trying to reach him, explain what's happened to him. Everyone else has given up. But Gavin will try anything. Even asking the selkies to help. To do that, he must give them something to show them how much it matters. What is the dearest thing he owns?

BookBrowse

A lovely book that is well worth reading, and one that would be particularly apt for children coping with the serious illness of a family member, elderly or otherwise.  (Reviewed by BookBrowse Review Team).

Full Review (397 words).

Media Reviews

Publishers Weekly Magic hovers just beneath the surface of Dickinson's lyrical tale.....The road to the hopeful but honest conclusion is thoughtful but never maudlin, and the insights the author offers will linger long after journey's end. Ages 9-12.   Booklist - Hazel Rochman Gr. 3-6. Many of Dickinson's best stories, such as Eva (1988), are set on the edge between the ordinary and the magical, and in this small book his simple, beautiful words once again root the fantasy in real places and daily routine....The love and grief in the story will touch many readers.   Kirkus Reviews Gavin's grief recovery, beautifully depicted through explorations of just a few personal relationships, is rich with psychological realism. With a conclusion that's satisfyingly magical without being pat, a touching story of love and determination. (Fiction. 8-12)   School Library Journal - Lauralyn Persson Gr 4-7-A meticulously crafted novel about 11-year-old Gavin, whose beloved grandfather suffers a debilitating stroke. Set in a Scottish seaside town.... Experienced and thoughtful readers are in for a treat with this lovely story that hovers at the edge of fantasy.

Recent Reader Reviews

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