Reviews

Grandad Mandela by Ziwelene Mandela, Sean Qualls, Zazi Mandela, Zindzi Mandela

duchessofreadin's review

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3.0

I read through this book. It is meant for kids, but there are a few things in there that I am not really ready to share with my children. They know who Nelson Mandela is, but I think that I am going to wait just a little longer before sharing this with them. Would suggest this for ages 10+, and even then, I would suggest parents read it first, so as to be able to answer any questions that your children will come back to you with.

maidmarianlib's review

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4.0

Such a beautiful personal expression of a relationship which gives this biography a unique context, the question and answer format and the rich textured illustrations also add.

aquahogcodes's review

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5.0

Thank you to Quarto for sending me a digital copy of this book to review!

This is an enchanting read. Grandad Mandela is a picture book highlighting the life and vision of one of the greatest humanitarians in history. The illustrations are bold and contrasting and the language used is simple yet resonating. The exciting thing is that Mandela's life story is told through the words of his own family! They share the principles on which he was raised, the struggles he undertook and what we can do to help continue his legacy.

This book is a great way to not only familiarize children with the work and non-violent ideology of Mandela but will also help start a conversation regarding sensitive issues like race so that we can raise more empathetic adults who are willing to contribute to making the world a better place.

A must read for young leaders-in-the-making everywhere!

kriziaannacastro's review

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2.0

It is a story about Nelson Mandela told in uniquely through the eyes of 2 children asking about their granddad Mandela. It was informative and contains complete details regarding Nelson Mandela. It also talks about apartheid. However, I found the storytelling a bit forced. Instead of curious kids who wanted to know more about grandpa, it felt like they were asking their grandma interview questions from school. It was too organized and the answers to the questions were a bit long and complicated. I also did not like the illustrations. It was drawn wonderfully but not catchy for children.

kterhaar's review

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3.0

Questions and answers is an Interesting way to present the story of Nelson Mandela. The information presented gives good basic introduction to the life of Mandela. The flow seemed a little forced at times. Illustrations were wonderful

librarianryan's review

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4.0

This history lesson in picture book form was interesting. It deals with Mandela’s grandchildren asking their mother about who their granddad was and why he went to prison, what he believed etc. I think the book is very successful in it’s points, and uses simple language to help kids understand Mandela and his life.

thebookgirl's review

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5.0


Grandad Mandela was a sweet storybook for kids. It follows the life of the great Nelson Mandela. The daughter of Mandela is telling her children all the stories that she can remember of her father. She is also answering their many questions. I loved the question and answer format because you rarely see it in children's literature. The author somehow managed to add a lot of detail and story into a few pages. Also did it super flawlessly.

This is a brilliant way to introduce tough topics to children. Difficult topics like racism are displayed in an easy to understand format in this book. I imagine it would perfect for slightly older children due to the word choices.

The art is absolutely breathtaking. The illustrations on every page are super gorgeous. It invokes so much emotion and feeling. I think it also fits the culture of the story perfectly.

Disclaimer: This book was sent to me for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and were not influenced.
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