Celebrate Grandma’s kindness, support, and generous heaps of love with this charmingly illustrated book from the New York Times bestselling author and artist behind Because I Had a Teacher and Because of You, Dad.
Because of grandmas, we have time to explore, traditions to share, and our very own cheering section too. Grandmas help shape us and they see the best in us—all with a soft smile and a warm hug ready to give.
With adorable hand-drawn illustrations of everyday moments shared between a big bear and a little bear, this endearing gift book is a reflection of Grandma’s dedication and love. Timeless and thoughtful, every sentiment thanks Grandma for the lessons, care, and tenderness she gives that makes life so sweet.
From the same creators of The New York Times bestselling Because I Had a Teacher—author Kobi Yamada and artist Natalie Russell, Because of You, Grandma is a honoring tribute for Mother’s Day, Grandparents Day, the holidays, a birthday, or just because.
Firstly, thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this book! I was reeeeally looking forward to it!!
Because of You, Grandma is an illustrated gift book for that grandma who has made our lives easier through the different stages of our lives.
I read Because I Had a Teacher a while ago, so my expectations with this one were high… But what can I say? It didn’t disappoint. I also had the opportunity to read Because of You, Grandpa and I was a little worried that both books would be exactly the same, but they aren’t!!
The text
I know this is not the most important thing in a book like this, but a text that really matches the illustrations is what makes a book like this complete. Yet, I wanted to remark how the little sentences are perfectly understandable to anyone who reads it, making it a good option to read with children or to read with those grandmas who are feeling the weight of life.
From the very first page you will find very clear sentences, written in a very natural way.
Illustrations
As in any other book in this series, the illustrations are very tender. You turn the page and know the love put into making the characters and imagining the scene. And I really love that in books like this.
Besides, I find the pictures quite original, as they do not represent the text literally, but rather adapt it to the characters, who are bears, without losing clarity. This honestly makes it better for me, as you will find yourself looking at each picture for some time before moving on to the next scene.
The difference between Grandpa’s and Grandma’s illustrations is also very curious. I really encourage you to see both versions, you won’t regret it.
Conclusion: Does it work as a present?
Absolutely yes!! It is clear, bold, and beautiful. Besides, it feels like a pile of gift cards, so it is small and easy to keep. As an example, I have my edition of Because of You, Teacher decorating a shelf and it fits perfectly.
And if you are thinking of getting both Grandpa’s and Grandma’s versions, go for it! As I already mentioned, the text and illustrations are different, which is something that I really appreciate!
This heartwarming book celebrates the special bond between a grandmother and her grandchild. Through gentle and loving storytelling, it shows how a grandma’s care, wisdom, and affection help shape a child’s world. The story is filled with warmth and gratitude, reminding readers how important family connections are. It’s a touching and meaningful read that both children and adults can enjoy together. I highly recommend this heartwarming book, as it beautifully celebrates the special bond between a grandmother and her grandchild. The story is filled with love, warmth, and meaningful moments that make it a joy to read. I received this book as a digital review copy from NetGalley, and I truly enjoyed every page of it
Review to be added to Amazon UK and US on 28 July 2026 - publication day!
I thought that this was an excellent book to read! I really liked the messaging in the book, it is a lovely positive read and I loved that there is space at the start to dedicate the book too to make it one to treasure. The illustrations in the book were wonderful and they really made the book come to life - it is all very well done. It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended
Comforting book which reminds grandmas that the small things they do for and say to grandkids make a big difference. My favorite page is about grandma pointing out the things she loves about her grandkid and helping the grandkid love them too. Like the grandpa book, these illustrations portray a certain type of grandma - one that bakes, sews, and gardens. Would be good to see an edition with a more city-dwelling grandma. (Thanks to NetGalley for an eARC)
I recommend buying this book with the companion one about Grandpa. Beautiful book in both illustrations and written words. Very touching and positive. I would recommend this book to parents and grandparents. I think it will become one that is read over and over again.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC I need to go hug my grandma My grandma is my namesake and the person in my family who is most like me. This book (and its beautiful, tender artwork) reminded me how blessed I am to have someone else who understands me on such a level.
The illustrations are so whimsical and beautiful. The book describes many of the ways Grandmas are so special and how blessed we are to have them. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
A sweet children’s story that shows love, appreciation, and special moments shared with Grandma. A heartwarming reminder of how much grandmas mean to us.
I read the Because of you Grandpa & Because of you, Grandma books duo a month ago. It kinda shattered me.
My following review is my immediate reaction. In french "ma réaction à chaud".
I had planned to reread them before posting my review, but they affected me so deeply (wrecked me) that I haven't been able to do it yet.
There will therefore be a more complete version of my review later, after I've reread them. If I am even able and recovered from this.
*******
Je crois pas avoir autant pleuré devant un livre comme ça de ma vie. Je suis détruite.
J'avais envie de relever toutes les citations. Chaque phrase est comme un baume au cœur.
Je compte le faire dès ma relecture.
*
I read Because of you, Grandpa first, and I ended up tearing up. But reading this one had me cry from the very beginning.
It's very vulnerable to share this but here it is. It's a human experience in the end. One a lot of us end up experincing.
It's so bittersweet. This book can teach you to cherrish those relationships while they are, and when life takes them from you, it makes you remember them through that gentle and precious lense that you already knew but maybe had forgotten about some aspects. Those words are so just.
It almost feels like flipping through an old photo album. One of memories, and real moments you've probably lived. It sent me back to those summers with you, to all these shared moments when you taught me a lot, and supported me like no one else. In the good and the bad. I miss you a lot.
I pictured you and me, on that couch when you transmitted me your stories, your passions, your sewing, amidst fabric, threads and needles, your sewing, your talents and your flowers.
Thank you for writing such simple yet delicate heartfelt just little books. I believe they hold a lot of love and mean a lot to readers. Whether if it's from ones who still have their grandma's with them or not. You read it with a happy smile, or a nostalgic one. With tears of joy or tears of loss.
I loved the illustrations, they were whimsical and colorful. The story was simple and very sweet. It would be a beautiful gift to give to all the wonderful grandmas.
Thank you to Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the copy of the eARC. All opinions are my own.