Horn Book Review
Jillian already has two grandmothers, and though she's happy with her new stepdad, the new bubbe who joins the family along with him takes some getting used to. Bubbe smothers her in lipstick kisses, uses Yiddish terms Jillian doesn't understand, and claims her matzo ball soup is "the best soup in the universe" -- and therein lies the real problem. Welcoming Bubbe in feels like disloyalty to Noni (and her meatball soup) and Gram (and her gazpacho). The lively third-person narration ("She had no choice. In the name of grandmas, it was time for a protest!") sticks closely with Jillian and her strong but evolving feelings, with details in the cartoonish illustrations adding humor (keep an eye on the pets). The conclusion is, unsurprisingly, delicious, with plenty of family warmth and a hint of a new member to come. Back matter includes three soup recipes as well as resources for adults on blended and interfaith families. Shoshana Flax July/August 2022 p.83(c) Copyright 2022. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus Review
Jillian likes her new stepfather but isn't sure about her new grandmother. Bubbe, Yiddish for grandmother, is very loving, but Jillian does not appreciate this affection. She already has two grandmas--Gram and Noni--and a great-grandma. She doesn't need a person who gives lipstick-laden kisses and introduces new holidays and words (kvelling and kvetching) she doesn't understand. When her mom insists that Jillian "give Bubbe a chance," Jillian, tan-skinned with brown hair, reluctantly agrees to join her "brand-new" grandmother as Bubbe prepares soup and teaches Jillian to make perfect matzah balls. After tasting the delicious concoction, Jillian plans a celebration for everyone: her mother, her stepfather, her father, and all her grandmothers (and her great-grandma). The three grandmas make their special soups and create a feast for everyone--a lovely way to bring a blended family together. Humorous, expressive illustrations track Jillian's many moods; the interactions between Bubbe's dog and her cat are especially funny. Filled with good tastes and intentions, the story will ring true where families have stayed friendly after divorce and remarriage. Jillian's family is a diverse one--Bubbe is Jewish, and the family members range in skin tone. Backmatter includes recipes for all three grannies' soups (Bubbe's matzah ball soup, Noni's Italian wedding soup, and Gram's gazpacho). (This book was reviewed digitally.) A winning reminder that though family might evolve, it's always anchored by love. (websites related to blended families) (Picture book. 5-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Booklist Review
When Mom marries Michael, Jillian gets a nice stepdad and a new grandmother ("Call me Bubbe"). Bubbe makes every effort to connect with her new granddaughter, but Jillian, who already has two grandmothers, isn't buying. Bubbe smothers her with kisses, uses Yiddish words Jillian doesn't understand, and has the audacity to insist that her matzo ball soup is the best in the universe. After Mom intercedes, Jillian begins to thaw, eventually coming up with a plan to reassure all her grandmothers of their importance to her. Landy's brightly colored illustrations are rendered in cartoon style, with each character exhibiting distinctive features: Bubbe sports frizzy orange hair and purple glasses, and Jillian has perfected an "I'm not interested" expression. Observant readers will also note how human feelings and activities are often mirrored in the actions of Jillian's dog and cat. Appended with resources for blended and interfaith families--as well as recipes for Bubbe's matzoh ball soup, Noni's Italian wedding soup, and Gran's gazpacho--this will be welcomed by evolving families seeking a positive path forward.
