Grandad's World

By Author / Illustrator

Michael Foreman

Genre

Environment & Nature

Age range(s)

Publisher

Scholastic

ISBN

9780702323119

Format

Hardback

Published

15-01-2026

Synopsis

A story celebrating the special relationship between one boy and his grandad, from national treasure Michael Foreman. "Young readers will relish the slow build-up of adventure. Michael Foreman's luminous watercolour illustrations bring the story to life." The Bookseller - Editor's Pick.

Jack's favourite place to be is with his grandad: walking in the woods, looking after the village pond, listening as Grandpa shows him all the magic of the countryside. Together they watch Mr Fox prowling for mice, owls nesting in the trees and badgers sleeping peacefully in their setts. But one night, that peace is shattered with a screech of tyres as a monstrous heap of rubbish is emptied into the village pond. Can Jack and his grandad rally the village and clear the pond before it's too late?

With a wonderful environmental message, this is the perfect picture book to share with children and grandparents alike. Michael Foreman OBE has established himself as one of the most beloved picture book creators in the UK over his 60-year career. This wonderful tale shows the beautiful connection between two generations and how, working together, they can protect our natural spaces and change the world for the better.

A tale of wonder and wisdom, perfect for fans of Charles Mackesy, Raymond Briggs, and Chris Van Allsburg!

Reviews

Louise

In Grandad's World, we see how Jack loves spending time with his grandad, exploring the woods, watching wildlife, and caring for the village pond. Foreman's soft, glowing watercolour illustrations help children feel the magic of the countryside just as Jack does, making it easy for young readers to connect with the story. When a huge pile of rubbish is dumped into the pond one night, the peaceful world Jack knows is suddenly threatened.

Michael Foreman's heart warming picture book is a wonderful story to share in a Key Stage 1 classroom (ages 4-7 years) because it celebrates the special bond between a boy and his grandad while gently introducing themes of nature, community, and looking after the world around us. This moment creates a powerful opportunity for KS1 children to think about environmental responsibility and how even small actions can make a big difference.

As Jack and his grandad rally the villagers to clean up the pond, the story shows the importance of teamwork, caring for nature, and taking pride in the places we share. It's a gentle, uplifting book that encourages children to notice the beauty around them and to understand that everyone, even the youngest among us, can help protect it.

Picture book / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher