Families who loved Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child expresses curiosity about their family history, or if your family is navigating the complex emotions of living between two different cultures or countries. This beautifully illustrated memoir explores the life of the author's grandfather, a man who traveled from Japan to North America and spent the rest of his life longing for whichever home he was currently away from. It is a pensive, gentle exploration of what it means to belong to two places at once. Through delicate, album-like paintings, the story touches on themes of immigration, nostalgia, and the passing of time. While it includes a brief mention of the disruption caused by World War II, the tone remains quiet and reflective. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to validate a child's feelings of restlessness or to celebrate the beauty of a multicultural heritage that spans generations. Best for children ages 4 to 10.