Nana, Nenek, and Nina, written and illustrated by Liza Ferneyhough. Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2022. $ 23.99 ages 5 and up

 

"At Nana's, 
it's usually damp and chilly.
Nina wriggles into some woolly thing
and gets ready to go out. 

At Nenek's, 
they start their day outside
before the sun gets too high in the sky. 
Nina just has to slip on her selipar."

Nina has two grandmothers. They live in two different countries on opposite sides of the world. Nina does not live in either of those countries. If she wants to visit with them where they live, she must fly from her home in the United States to see Nana in a damp and chilly village in Britain, or to see Nenek in hot and steamy Malaysia. I love the design used to help young readers see the stark differences between one place and another. Using variety in composition, Nina introduces each grandmother in simple text that clearly defines time spent preparing to be with each one of them. 

The packing cannot be all the same. It does take time and thought. A small something makes the trip to both places every time - a reminder of home. Flights move in opposite directions. Tired is the end result of both trips. Being in a very different environment is evident first thing the next morning. At Nana's, the two need warm clothing to go outside. At Nenek's, the two are sure to get outside early in order to miss the heat of the sun later in the day. 

Work in respective gardens and a healthy breakfast are top of mind as the day begins. Rain sends Nina inside for hot chocolate and games with Nana; heat means iced tea and a different game with gathered cousins at Nenek's house. A visit to the sea works in both places. An afternoon rest for Nina allows time for the grandmothers to get their shopping done. Meals are prepared and enjoyed together. At the end of the day there is time for a cleansing shower. Even bedtime offers different accommodations - a bunk bed, and a bed with mosquito netting. 

The good night hugs, whispered words of love, and gentle gestures are exactly the same! 

This debut picture book is beautifully designed to give readers a close look at the two visits. Filled with warmth and wonderfully detailed images of life with two loving grandmothers, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and ponder what is happening on each shared spread. Be prepared to read it again and then, again. 

I would love to revisit the three at some future time.