Exceeds the limitations that usually plague leveled readers. Just do note that the cover depicts a scene that will only take place after the story in the book is over. ( )

Adorable, creative, and great for children learning to read on their own! ( )

Gigi is very excited about picking her grandfather up from the airport and anticipating all the fun things they'll do together. However, she is disappointed when some cultural differences make her think her grandfather doesn't like the same things she does and maybe doesn't even care about her at all.

This is a very sweet book about a grandfather and grandchild. Gigi goes through many emotions from excitement to sadness, and she is appropriately comforted by her mother who explains some of the cultural norms that are new to Gigi so she understands her grandfather better. Gigi is allowed to express her emotions but is given explanations as to why the things she observed didn't necessarily translate to what she thought.

The book is great for diverse families and communities (and for those that need to see that!), with Gigi's father being white, her mother being Japanese-American, and her grandfather being Japanese. It's nice to see not only more Asian-American protagonists, but also those with mixed heritage, as that is often the case for many families. A handful of basic Japanese words are sprinkled into the text.

The gentle illustrations fit the tone of the book perfectly and help to convey parts of the story, both by supporting and supplementing the text. Speaking of text, it is generally kept straightforward enough for beginning readers to tackle this book on their own or with some guidance. ( )

What a great book to introduce readers to Japanese words, cultures, and customs. While I struggle with this being classified as "Reading Alone" (because kiddos will struggle with the longer Japanese words), I think this series of Gigi and Ojiji is beautiful representation. And it's a biracial family too! ( )

Gigi is excited for her grandfather to come from Japan to live with them; she is proud of her Japanese words and has made a drawing as a present for him. But after their first interaction at the airport, Gigi is afraid he doesn't like her. Her mother fills in the space in the cultural and language gaps: how sometimes he laughs when he doesn't know what to say, and how Japanese people usually bow rather than hug. With Mom there to bridge the gaps, Gigi regains her enthusiasm for her Ojiji.

Here's an early reader that reads just like a picture book - and that's a huge compliment.

See also: Mango, Abuela, and Me by Meg Medina ( )