Matt Goodfellow Press Reviews
That art is a hugely effective way of helping to develop empathy with other cultures comes across with a quiet power in this story that celebrates the imagination while demonstrating the importance of reaching out to others. An important book to include in primary school class collections. - Red Reading Hub
Its beautiful - words illustration and impact. I cannot stop thinking about how I could use this and the discussion to be had. -- Mandy Barnes, Teacher, English Advisor - Twitter
A heartfelt and beautifully illustrated picture book. -- Rick Charlesworth, Primary English Lead, UKLA London - Twitter
A beautiful picture book...tells the story of a new arrival whose grandfather's artwork helps her settle in. With amazing artwork. - Love My Books
Superb, Matt's writing is often brilliant. -- Dom Conlon - Twitter
Such a beautiful book with a powerful story... This is a story for every child who has either stood on the sideline or walked away whilst others needed support. - Dolphin Book Blog
Matt Goodfellow's text is point perfect. We feel concerned for Shu Lin, worried about the skipping buzz in the playground and all the eyes watching her curious lunch boxes. Then again, we gasp alongside the class, when her grandfather reveals his paintings, feeling the 'flames and swirls of white mist'. Yu Rong's pictures are breathtaking, absolutely glorious. Bookwagon recommends Shu Lin's Grandpa to every home and classroom. This is an outstanding picture book that deserves reading, knowing, treasuring and gifting. - Bookwagon
The combination of Matt's sensitive text and Yu Rong's captivating artwork make this a heart-warming tale that could be read at any time in an EYFS or KS1 classroom but I think links very well with a focus on reading for Empathy, Chinese New Year or when a new member is joining the class, particularly if English isn't their first language. - Just Imagine
With a stunning double-gatefold spread revealing a beautiful Chinese picture, this uplifting story shows the transformative power of art and imagination in developing cultural understanding and empathy. - Achuka
This is a gentle, reflective book that helps children think about how it might feel to be new to a school and a country... with beautiful illustrations this is a book about acceptance and the power of art. - Juno
So love this beautiful book by @EarlyTrain with gorgeous illustrations by Yu Rong. Its simple and beautiful text gives us lots to talk about. Being new and first days at school, being kind, differences, but also what we share. Shu Lin's Grandpa is a keeper. -- Sue Hardy-Dawson - via Twitter
This book will spark lots of discussion about the wonders of cultural diversity, new arrivals in school, overcoming language barriers and the wonderful contribution grandparents can make to children's lives. - Discover Children's Books
This enchanting story demonstrates how tolerance and finding common interests can capsize our initial reactions to the unfamiliar and can lead to greater understanding and warmth. - NATE Primary Matters
A heartwarming, empathetic picture book sharing Shu Lin's first experience of school in a new country showing the power of art & creativity to aid understanding of different cultures & building friendships. Beautifully told and illustrated. -- Jo Bowers (Associate Dean & Lecturer: Primary Education) - via Twitter
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