Special relationships can develop between young children and older adults as evidenced by two children's picture books with this theme. A Special Trade and Now One Foot, Now the Other both explore the way that children and older adults enjoy special friendships that change as each of them grow older.
A Special Trade Picture Book
A Special Trade by Sally Wittman [Harper Trophy, 1985, ISBN 0064430715] is the story of a little girl named Nelly and her older neighbor, Bartholomew. When Nelly was a baby, Bartholomew would push her around the neighborhood in her stroller. They had special things they would do and say while out riding around. As Bartholomew grew older, they would walk together while Bartholomew used a cane. One day Bartholomew falls and is taken away in an ambulance. He is gone a long time, but Nelly waits for him to return home. When he does come home, he is confined to a wheelchair. Bartholomew says that their walks must be done, but Nelly tells him that she can push him around now. And so she does and they enjoy the same pathways and little special things that they did before.
This ALA Notable Children's Book is a beautiful example of the friendship between a child and an older adult that can exist, grow and change over the years. The illustrations are fun and add a great deal to the story. This is a book that younger children would enjoy and would find it a good introduction to the idea of children being good friends with older adults.
Now One Foot, Now the Other Friendship Story Theme
Now One Foot, Now the Other by Tomie dePaola [Sandcastle Books, 1980, ISBN 0142401048] is the touching story of the friendship and love between a boy and his grandfather. Bobby's best friend is his grandfather who he calls Bob. Bob teaches Bobby to walk, saying "Now one foot, now the other." Bobby and Bob spend special time together and have a very close friendship. When Bob has a stroke that fundamentally changes him, Bobby is afraid of his grandfather. Bobby's parents tell him that Bob will not get any better and that he doesn't recognize them. But Bobby doesn't believe it and by the end of the story, it is Bobby who is saying to Bob, "Now one foot, now the other."
This story is illustrated in the classic Tomie dePaola style. It is a very moving book to read that addresses some emotional themes. It is a good introduction for small children into the way that an older adult can change through health problems such as a stroke.
A Special Trade and Now One Foot, Now the Other are both excellent children's picture books to introduce kids to the special dynamics and joys of friendship between a child and an older adult. Both books will open the way to helpful discussions on these important themes. Explore additional themes such as courage, perseverance, and making a difference through children's picture books.
Sallie Schaaf Borrink - Sallie Borrink is a professional writer with extensive experience with business clients, the consumer market, and online destinations.
Join the Conversation