Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs : Book Review

"Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs" by Tomie dePaola is a beautiful children's book that tells the heartwarming story of Tommy and his two grandmothers, Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs. It is a poignant tale that captures the special bond between a grandchild and their grandparents, explores themes of love and loss, and teaches important lessons about the cycle of life.

With its simple yet evocative illustrations and heartfelt narrative, dePaola beautifully portrays Tommy's love for his grandmothers. The story unfolds as Tommy spends time with Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs, engaging in activities and treasuring their moments together. The author skillfully depicts the tender and loving interactions between generations, creating a touching portrayal of familial connections.

As the story progresses, Tommy experiences the heartbreak of losing Nana Upstairs, and dePaola delicately explores the raw emotions he goes through. The book approaches the topic of death and grief in a gentle and age-appropriate way, showing the importance of remembering and honoring loved ones who have passed away.

Moreover, the story emphasizes the circle of life, as Nana Upstairs becomes Nana Downstairs. This aspect of the story offers a comforting message, reassuring young readers that while people may leave this world, their memories and love continue to live on in our hearts.

In conclusion, "Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs" is a touching and timeless tale that celebrates the love between different generations. Tomie dePaola's storytelling and illustrations beautifully capture the essence of familial love, making this book a must-read for children and adults alike. It skillfully tackles important themes of love, loss, and the cycle of life, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

What are readers saying?

Tomie dePaola's book, "Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs," has received widespread acclaim for its heartfelt and poignant storytelling. The story revolves around a young boy's relationship with his two grandmothers and beautifully portrays the warmth and love shared between different generations. It also touches upon the inevitable cycle of life and loss. One of the book's strengths lies in dePaola's ability to address themes of mortality and grief with sensitivity, making it an valuable resource for children trying to understand these complex emotions.

The simplicity and expressiveness of dePaola's illustrations have also garnered praise from readers. The illustrations enhance the narrative by bringing the characters and their emotions to life. Through dePaola's signature style, characterized by vibrant colors and warm tones, the illustrations contribute to the overall appeal of the book.

Readers have commended the book's realistic and respectful portrayal of elderly characters. "Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs" showcases the joys and challenges of aging, providing a relatable representation of the realities faced by older individuals. This aspect of the story has resonated with readers of all ages, offering comfort and solace in its depiction of life's inevitable cycles.

Overall, "Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs" has deeply touched the hearts of readers with its heartfelt narrative and beautiful illustrations. It is often acclaimed for its ability to tackle sensitive topics in a gentle and age-appropriate manner, making it beloved by both children and adults. Many readers recommend the book as an invaluable resource for discussing themes of love, loss, and the passage of time with young audiences. Tomie dePaola's masterful storytelling and artistic talent have given life to a timeless and emotionally resonant tale that continues to captivate readers of all ages.