Hey Grandude!

October 14, 2019
Inspired by McCartney’s own nickname and featuring a titular wink toward the Beatles’ “Hey Jude,” this picture book debut from the musical icon hits all the right notes in the tale of a cool grandfather, his magical compass, and his grandchildren: Lucy, Tom, Em, and Bob. The “Chillers,” as Grandude dubs the foursome, are visiting for the weekend, but gloomy weather is thwarting their fun—“everybody was grumpy and too bored to be bothered.” Enter Grandude with zingy green backpack, a handful of postcards and, like Mary Poppins before him, a mystical compass. The family rides flying fish, horses, and airborne cows in various locales, narrowly evading danger each time before being whisked to the next destination. An energetic refrain (“See the compass needle spin,/ let the magic fun begin!”) and an onomatopoeic arpeggio (“Zing, bang, sizzle... everything changed!”) set the pace for each brisk adventure—until Grandude sees the children home and tucked in for bed. Durst’s colorful illustrations enliven the narrative with cartoon details and scrawled textures. An entertaining, if familiar, debut. Ages 4–6.

Cheerful music and superstar Paul McCartney's beloved, unmistakable voice make this audiobook written by McCartney himself a joy for listeners of all ages--not least Beatles fans with children of their own. Spending the day with "Grandude" is a thrilling whirlwind adventure for four of his "chillers" because their grandfather has a magical compass that can transport them to exciting places like the beach, the Wild West, and a Swiss mountainside. Sound effects add excitement as--"zing, bang, sizzle"--the group is whisked away to the next locale, narrowly escaping danger each time. McCartney gives a delightful performance and is clearly having a wonderful time. Whispering snores at the chillers's bedtime calm the mood for the audiobook's end. S.C. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine