Not Pop-Pop

by Angela De Groot, MacKenzie Haley (illustrator)

In this sweet and tender picture book, a trip to the library turns into an adventure in kindness and a reminder that people experiencing homelessness deserve compassion and respect—just like every human.

During a visit to the library, Brian is sure he sees his Pop-Pop around the corner—same eyes, same beard, same bushy eyebrows.

Nope, that's not Pop-Pop!

This man brushes his teeth in the restroom and his sneakers are patched with duct tape. Some people make frowny faces and even call him mean words, but Not Pop-Pop loves books, puzzles, and turtles, just like Brian.

He may not be Brian’s pop-pop, but could he be someone’s?

Not Pop-Pop also includes a kid-friendly resource for adults to begin conversations about homelessness, empathy, and ways that anyone can make a big difference in the life of a person in need.

Genres: Picture Books

Kindle Edition

Published August 27, 2024

About the author

Angela De Groot was born in England, grew up in South Africa, and now lives in New Jersey with her husband and sons. When she’s not writing picture books and poems, you’ll find her in the garden, digging in the dirt and talking to the birds. A lifelong lover of reading, Angela teaches ESL and basic literacy at her local library. You can learn more about her at www.angeladegroot.com

Reviews

[Cynthia Mackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the library joy depicted in this book. Libraries do so much and Angela’s story celebrates the joy of plopping down in a favourite spot to read, choosing books, story time, and the sense of community it’s we feel when meeting other patrons. The main character meets Not Pop-Pop who is easy to connect with because he’s similar to Pop-Pop. It turns out he’s also homeless. The interactions with a homeless man at the library are non-judgmental and realistic. Not an easy topic for a picture book, and yet, it’s an important one. Lots of onomatopoeia makes it kid friendly and the illustrations by MacKenzie Haley are adorable.

[Marzieh Abbas · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book on homelessness, food insecurity and the warmth of libraries. It tackles heavy topics in a kid-friendly way, and gives us all a chance to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and be more empathetic🌿🪴🌱

[Suzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Pop-Pop is a sweet book that delicately shows homelessness as well as modeling how to treat each other with compassion and kindness, no matter their circumstances.

While at the library, Brian sees a man who reminds him of his grandfather, Pop-Pop. This man has the same color eyes, beard, and bushy eyebrows. But it isn’t Pop-Pop.

On every visit he sees this man, George, carrying a pillow, cooler, and tote bag. When George talks to himself loudly some people call him names while others look away. Brian is surprised and confused by their reactions. Later, Brian is surprised to see George brushing his teeth in the bathroom, and even more surprised when he sees George taking cans from the food donation box. That’s where Brian and his mom had just put canned donations for people who do not have enough food to eat. Brian sees how people react to George, hears their name calling, and learns that George is homeless.

Not Pop-Pop is a book that gently discusses homelessness, compassion, kindness, and how to treat others, all the while showcasing a variety of activities libraries have to offer. The back matter explains homelessness in a child-relatable tone, shares suggestions on how to help homeless people, and has information for adults to utilize when discussing homelessness with children.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Not Pop-Pop” is the sweetest picture book for children. It shares such an important message, helping children understand what homelessness is and how we can have compassion for others.

I am really moved by this story. I love how a trip to the library with mom teaches young Brian how to have compassion for others and how helping others will build a better world. I also appreciate how George, the homeless man he encounters, reminds Brian of his own Pop-Pop.

This kindhearted story also shares a message of respect for others, no matter their circumstances, appearance, or community standing. Not everyone has a home, food, family, or support, but it shows who WE are when we regard them with kind and helpful hearts.

First Line: Yay! It’s library Day.
Genre: Children
Author: Angela De Groot
Page Count: 40
Reading Age: 3-7
Content: Homeless

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% mine.

[Tonya Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young Brian loves visiting the library, and so does a man who looks just like his Pop-Pop. During various encounters with the older man Brian learns what homelessness means and how to spread kindness and assistance to others. I enjoyed the child-friendly language, the fun descriptions of Brian's activities at the library, and the charming illustrations. This is a book that all kids can relate to and a great vehicle for opening up conversations with children about homelessness how they can help others.

[Ellen Leventhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be in every classroom and home with young children. At the library, Brian sees a man who looks a lot like his Pop Pop. It's not Pop Pop, but he befriends him anyway. Eventually Brian learns that it's a homeless man. The story helps children understand the issue of homelessness, but it's done in a way that is sweet and not didactic. Angela DeGroot's words and MacKenzie Haley's art combine to create a book that is both fun and educational, which isn't always an easy feat. I highly recommend NOT POP POP

[Laura Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Pop Pop is an important book (I haven't seen a PB book on this topic) that is a must read for kids (and adults!). It highlights empathy, compassion and how connections can be made even if situations are different. A child sees a man in the library that reminds him of his Pop-Pop, but over the course of the story, Brian realizes that it isn’t his Pop-Pop and that this man is homeless. Brian notices the other patrons in the library are not being particularly kind to him (making faces, using unkind words, etc.) and this upsets Brian as even though this is not his Pop-Pop, it could be someone else’s. He is a person who deserves respect. I would highly recommend this book that focuses on being less critical/judgmental and more supportive/understanding. I am thankful to DeGroot for writing a picture book on this topic. The charming illustrations by MacKenzie Haley foster the beautiful connection created in the story.

[Dena Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book so much! Sweet, important, empathetic! Social issues and SEL and kindness treated with wisdom. Feels thoughtful, not didactic. This library board member is so glad our library purchased Not Pop-Pop.

[Alison McGauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet story of a boy who meets “Not Pop-Pop” at the library, a man who reminds him of his actual Pop-Pop. This book is a wonderful resource for initiating conversations about being unhoused as the characters highlight our common humanity. The book also features information at the back about helping others and tips for caregivers and teachers.

[Katie Mazeika · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an important book for kids! It’s a beautiful story that reminds us of the importance of compassion. The story introduces homelessness to young readers in a way that is easy to understand. I particularly liked how the text gently reminds the reader that everyone deserves love and friendship regardless of their housing. A must have for every bookshelf!

[Jen Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deals with the serious topic of homelessness in a relatable and accessible way that readers of all ages will enjoy and applaud. The author uses a light touch in conveying complex ideas of compassion and intolerance and keeps any "preaching" out of this truly heartwarming story of how a boy's simple curiosity is channelled into lifelong empathy. The illustrator keeps it light and cheerful as well, contributing to the hope message. A great book to start or continue a discussion (there's lots of good actionable ideas at the end of the story!) with children about the increasing epidemic of homelessness.

[Megan Litwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gentle look at homelessness, set in a public library where an observant young boy sees a man who looks a lot like his Pop Pop…but isn’t. And yet each day, the young boy notices the man, asks questions, makes connections…and eventually makes a small yet powerful choice. With themes of compassion and empathy, and child-friendly backmatter with more information and actionable tips, this book is one we could ALL benefit from.

[Katelyn Aronson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your "quiet" library story--It's chock-full of fun onomatopoeia that kids will love to hear read aloud. But this book also has a very special, deeper layer, that is just what society needs right about now! When young Brian mistakes George (a homeless man) for his grandpa ('Pop pop') at the library, we are reminded of the importance of social solidarity and the value of public services like libraries that are free for all people. In addition to the fictional storyline that encourages empathy and compassion, author De Groot includes nonfiction back matter to help young readers understand homelessness.

[Jolene Gutiérrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gentle, powerful book is a powerful way to teach perspective-taking and compassion. Connected by the library and a love of reading, Brian gets to know a man who reminds him of his Pop-Pop. This man is likely unhoused and Brian's curiosity, his mom's guidance, and the books that connect them forge a bond. Highly recommended for all homes, schools, and libraries!

[Steena Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heartfelt picture book is written in a thoughtful way with sweet illustrations, and touches on the topic of homelessness. The main character’s curiosity adds an endearing touch to the story, reminding us that everyone deserves respect and understanding. I hope to see this book spread love and compassion in many homes, schools, and libraries.

[Karen Greenwald · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Not Pop-Pop" is a touching, meaningful, and important book for teaching children about food insecurity and compassion. He may look like narrator Brian's Pop-Pop, but the title character lacks many of Pop-Pop's riches, like clean socks, a place to brush his teeth, and food. Brian's observations of the negative way others see "somebody else's Pop-Pop" are contrasted with his mother's open-heartedness. Colorful illustrations by MacKenzie Haley bring the contrasts in Brian and Not Pop-Pop's worlds to life. Backmatter delves into the universal problem of homelessness and offers ways we can all help. There is even a section for adults who read the book with kids. This "must-read" book will grab your heart!

[Annette Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kids and I loved this book. I highly recommend it!

[Robin Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this beautiful heartfelt story a young boy befriends a homeless man at the library who reminds him of his Pop-Pop. He affectionately calls him "Not Pop-Pop" and learns that all humans deserve to be treated with kindness, respect, and compassion. This book would make a wonderful classroom read aloud. Highly recommended.

[Stephanie ((Strazzybooks)) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A kind, compassionate book about how to treat others. And blue hair is always a win.

[Shari Tharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-warming story about a little boy and his experience at a local library when he encounters a homeless man who looks like his father.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Penguin Random House though Edelweiss+.
Powerful message about homelessness. Brian and his mom love going to the library. While there, he sees an older gentleman that looks like his Pop-Pop. It's not but the man is friendly and interacts softly. Brian watches others interact with "not Pop-Pop" and has questions for his mom. De Groot captures the gamut of interactions people have with others who are homeless. I appreciate that Brian and his mom treat George as simply another human being. Informative text is included at the end of the book. A family read together to help answer questions that may arise as children look around and see others.

[Candace Spizzirri · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT POP POP by Angela DeGroot is a touching, lovely picture book that tackles the subject of homelessness and food insecurity. Brian and his mom frequent the library and meet an old man, George, whom Brian originally mistakes for his pop pop. Brian befriends George. They read together, play on the computer, and spy turtles in the pond. When Brian overhears negative comments about George, his mom models compassion, kindness, and empathy.
Helpful back matter is included. The colorful illustrations by MacKenzie Haley perfectly pair with DeGroot’s beautiful words. A heartwarming read. 100% recommended!

[Angela De Groot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is inspired by my own experiences and adventures in kindness at my library. A smile or a wave really can transform someone’s day.

[Joanna Norland · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Not Pop Pop’ is a perfect book for children seeking to understand homelessness and to bring kindness to an inequitable world.
Young Brian gradually becomes aware that an elderly, gentle patron at his local library is homeless. Through Brian’s eyes, the reader becomes acquainted with George and we witness the amicable bond the two form, based on a shared love of books and animals. Useful, simple back matter educates kids about homelessness, its causes and some practical ways they can help. There are also thoughtful notes for parents, caregivers and teachers on how to discuss the issue with kids and empower them to make a difference.
The plight of homeless people often resonates viscerally with children, and Brian is an admirable role model for those who want to channel their innate empathy into action.
Another strength of ‘Not Pop-Pop’ is MacKenzie Hayley’s warm, whimsical illustrations of the library. I hope this book will encourage children and families to make greater use of these vital spaces for learning and building our communities and capacity for compassion.

[Nicole Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.

This book is all about learning how to have compassion for the homeless. I appreciate this book a lot as I don’t often know what to say when my kids ask about seeing homeless on the street or in the library. I love Brian’s energy, curiosity, and that his mother never admonished him for asking questions and definitions. The characterization of George is also spot-on, helping us not only see that he can act at times outside of some social norms but in the end, he is a harmless man like Brian’s grandfather, just a little different than Pop-Pop. Lastly, I appreciate that this story takes place in the library as many often forget that the library is not just a place for books but a community center to provide services for those who need it. Great for homes and classrooms teaching about compassion and empathy.

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

FINALLY, this book is so necessary! As someone who works at a library in a city, one of my pet peeves is when patrons complain to me that we let homeless people into our library:

"I wish this library was safer," they say, gesturing at a person sleeping by a window in the library.

or

If one of my programs isn't well attended: "They have a better turnout at KV because they don't have all these homeless people scaring the children."

And my replies are usually something like:

"I'm very proud to work in a free public space that welcomes everyone. I think the safest places of all are the ones that welcome all people, regardless of how much money they have. How many free safe public spaces does someone without a home have?"

We need to teach children (and adults!) to see the humanity in people from all walks of life, especially in these hard economic times where more and more people experience homelessness. JUST BE KIND! Ignoring the artistic merits of this book (it's fine), I love the message.

[Jeanne Balsam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Not Pop-Pop. I love a story that shows compassion for those who may be struggling, and a child who is learning what kindness and compassion are. When young Brian and his Mom first encounter George (not Pop-Pop), he first notices all the similarities between this man and his own grandfather, much as any child would. He then notices the differences, and how others treat him. Brian’s mom thoughtfully explains what being homeless can mean, and how to, and how not to, behave towards someone in need. In the safe and welcoming space of a library, Brian and George begin to share their love of knowledge and books. If I have one criticism? It ended too soon.

Not Pop-Pop includes great back matter about homelessness, is written beautifully, and features bright illustrations which are rich with minor touches for kids to find and enjoy.

[Angie Quantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Pop-Pop is a wonderful story told from the boy's point of view. I liked how the author kept the story in the child's head and at the developmental level of the boy. When he has questions, he asks. His mother guides him to be kind and compassionate, and models ways to help those experiencing homelessness. I loved the characters and the library setting. The connection and growing relationship between Brian (the boy) and Not Pop-Pop was beautiful. Angela De Groot has penned a heart-warming story about people who are experiencing homelessness, and kindly offers excellent back matter to help young readers and adults know how they can help and treat others with respect. Excellent story and perfect resource. The colorful illustrations lend a sense of wonder and joy to a potentially difficult picture book topic. Two thumbs up!

[Julie Abery · Rating 5 out of 5]

The subject of homelessness and food insecurity is such a difficult one and I think Not Pop – Pop by Angela De Groot tackles the subject for the youngest children with tact and tenderness. The story revolves around a library where Brian meets an old bearded man who he thinks is his Pop-Pop, but quickly discovers it’s not, hence Not Pop-Pop (clever and catchy title). Brian begins to understand a little about Not Pop-Pop’s situation with the help of mum, including understanding the meaning of big words like ‘compassion’ and ‘vagrant’, and they strike up a friendship. The illustrations by Mackenzie Haley are bright and cheerful and complement the story perfectly.

[Danielle Hammelef · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian loves visiting the library to check out books, attend story time, read, and play games. But Brian also finds so much more at his library--he finds compassion and learns a difficult real-life lesson about people who are homeless. This is a heartwarming and very important read for all. The backmatter offers ways children can help those who are homeless, including making a kindness card and donating new or gently used toys, clothing, and art supplies to shelters. The book emphasizes choosing kindness always and gives parents ideas of how to discuss/answer children's questions about homelessness and easing children's fears about losing their own home.