The War with Grandpa

Gr 3—6—More than two decades after its original publication, one of Robert Kimmel Smith's bestselling children's books (Delacorte, 1984) has been released in audio format. Peter has lived in the same room his whole life and he loves it. He also loves his grandfather. But when his grandfather moves to his house and takes his room, Peter has to relocate upstairs. Peter wants his room back, so he "declares war" and starts playing pranks on his grandfather. Grandpa knows a few pranks of his own and humorous hijinks ensue. In the end, both grandparent and child are able to face their personal losses. Nicholas Kelly does a good job of recreating Pete's authentic 10-year-old voice, perfectly capturing its rhythm and inflection. He also voices the other characters well, moving easily from old to young, and male to female. The emotions of the various characters are clearly portrayed, from grandfather's exasperation to the parents' concern and the sister's taunting. A good way to introduce an older classic to a new generation of children.—Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT