Dadaji's Paintbrush

In a tiny Indian village, a boy lives with his grandfather, Dadaji. Together, they fill the house with paintings and joy as they share their lives. Then, Dadaji dies, leaving the boy his best paintbrush, but the boy's grief is too raw for him to even look at it and he puts it away. Months pass, until one day, a small girl appears at his door, asking the boy to teach her how to paint.  Initially, he refuses, but the girl persists and as they look at Dadaji's paintings, the boy remembers and reaches for Dadaji's Paintbrush once more.

This beautiful story celebrates the tenderness and depth of the loving relationship between grandparent and grandchild. Dadaji encouraged his grandson to develop his love of art, patiently guiding and supporting him in his endeavours, offering him the time and attention he needed to flourish.

When Dadaji dies, his loss is keenly felt and the boy struggles with his bereavement until he recognises the legacy Dadaji has left and that his grandfather touched many lives through his art work, inspiring the boy to follow in his footsteps. It is a deeply poignant story, offering comfort to those who need it and encouraging empathy for those who have lost a loved one.

The illustrations are stunning. Gentle pastel tones and soft lines capture the devotion between the two and add a memory-like quality to the pictures. Each spread demands savouring, encouraging the reader to notice details about the setting, Dadaji's work, the village children…as the illustrations work in perfect harmony with the text. 'Dadaji's Paintbrush' is a very special and moving story for many reasons. One to return to again and again.

Picture Book / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+