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marywahlmeierbracciano's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
5.0
What a lovely book! This Swedish classic follows Berra, a little boy who doesn't have a grandfather. His friend suggests they find him one at the old folks' home, and that's how they meet Grandpa Ned. They form a beautiful, touching intergenerational friendship full of hilarious hijinks and lots of love. Can You Whistle, Johanna? goes to show that sometimes, family is chosen.
Content Warnings
Minor: Death and Dementia
librarianryan's review against another edition
reflective
sad
3.0
I like the idea of this story. After hearing his friend talk about all the fun he has with his grandpa, he decides to get him one too. After a visit to a nursing home, Ned adopts a grandfather. In general I like this idea, but Ned sees it as a way to get money and presents. He soon learns that grandpas are for many wonderful things. But he misses his opportunity to say good buy while trying to learn to whistle. This book was just too sad for me. It was lovely, but sad.
bayshorebooks's review
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
kathrynvanbeek's review against another edition
5.0
What a fabulous book. A magical story about family and friendship, enhanced by quirky illustrations that whistle and splat. Highly recommended.
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