This delightful book is the latest in the series of Ladybird books which have been specially planned to help grown-ups with the world about them. The large clear script, the careful choice of words, the frequent repetition and the thoughtful matching of text with pictures all enable grown-ups to think they have taught themselves to cope. Featuring original Ladybird artwork alongside brilliantly funny, brand new text.
The concept of using children's media artwork to represent adult concepts is a novel idea, but it only generates a few giggles and the occasional wry smile during the 5 minute read-through. The joke wears thin when one starts to read a third or fourth book in the series. Best given as a gift to someone who is interested in the particular subject matter covered in this little book. This edition produced a higher than average rate of giggles for me, because I love Cats.
“Grandparents are very versatile. They are baby–sitters, weather forecasters, mother’s helpers, sweet collectors, child–minders, knitwear suppliers, au pairs, curators of G–Plan furniture and providers of day–care for the under twelves. Retirement is an exhausting job.”
This is one of a series of Ladybird books where the authors have had access to the original Ladybird archive of illustrations and have compiled new books, using the original pictures but with using original humorous text. The original Ladybird books were children's titles but these are firmly aimed at adults. The Grandparent was a Christmas gift from my son & partner, for whom we regularly childmind their son. The writing is very funny but it is also very true in some instances as well. A good addition to the series of which I'be read quite a few.
I have read quite a few of these Ladybird books for adults. I think Jason Hazeley and Joel Morris have really stepped up their game for this new series of books.
This book applies to Grandparents and any retired person i think. There were some funny but true observations which had me laughing out loud. As always the books had illustrations from the original Ladybird books. At the back they had the titles of made up books in the series. I loved the idea of books on The WI and The Cruise, I think they would make hilarious subjects hint hint.
2.5 Had a couple funny satirical moments, but overall not as good some others in the series. I do like the British writing style of these books and it was particularly evident in this one. The cake purposely baked with allergens was cringe worthy since it could be quite dangerous (yes, I realize this book isn't supposed to be taken literally, but still).
Probably the most bang on accurate of all of these re-purposed Landlord books, with a commentary on the behaviour patterns of Grand- (and not so Grand-) parents everywhere.
Only mildly amusing. I read it as a light break from the 800 page epic. They recycled illustrations from the golden age of Ladybird books. Hence all pictures look as if from 1950s or 1960s.
Bitter humor paired with retro looking illustrations all packed in a short but neatly published book. It's a cute and funny one even if it lacks story.