We know our kids are online well before they reach high school, so why do we wait so long to talk to them about it? It’s time for a book that helps elementary and middle-school readers get their bearings about the digital world that they are already immersed in.
But the conversation doesn’t have to be scary or dry! From award-winning educators Stephen Chiger and Daniel Pereira, Gram and Gran Save the Summer is the first text of its kind to teach media literacy through whimsical stories and playful puzzles – making it perfect reading during class time or at bedtime.
Whether you’re a teacher looking to build a unit on media, a librarian hoping to kickstart critical thinking, or a parent who isn’t sure where to start, Gram and Gran is here to help you and your kids find your way – and have a blast while doing it! Check out the first chapter here!
We know our kids are online well before they reach high school, so why do we wait so long to talk to them about it? It’s time for a book that helps elementary and middle-school readers get their bearings about the digital world that they are already immersed in. But the conversation doesn’t have to be scary or dry! From award-winning educators Stephen Chiger and Daniel Pereira, Gram and Gran Save the Summer is the first text of its kind to teach media literacy through whimsical stories and playful puzzles – making it perfect reading during class time or at bedtime. Whether you’re a teacher looking to build a unit on media, a librarian hoping to kickstart critical thinking, or a parent who isn’t sure where to start, Gram and Gran is here to help you and your kids find your way – and have a blast while doing it! Check out the first chapter here!
“Put together the word play of The Phantom Tollbooth, the imagination of Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and the problem solving mysteries of Encyclopedia Brown, make it about media and digital literacy, and you’ve got Gran and Gram Save the Summer. Now when someone asks what it means to teach media literacy from a place of curiosity and discovery instead of anxiety and fear, I can point to this book and say, ‘Like this.’… This book is a must-have for every middle grade library.”
Faith Rogow, author, Media Literacy for Young Children: Teaching Beyond the Screen Time Debates
“Attention media literacy teachers! Here's a clever, imaginative, and much-needed guidebook, cleverly disguised as a whimsical fantasy, that helps middle school kids learn to suss out, and avoid, online misinformation, scams, and phonies. It will give them the critical thinking skills needed to navigate our chaotic online universe.”
Sam Swope, founder and president, The Academy for Teachers
“Stephen and Dan have created a thoroughly original, relevant work that not only encourages critical thinking but demonstrates how digital literacy skills are necessary in almost every aspect of life. In an entertaining way and engaging way, they've provided readers with tools to help them navigate the digital world. I wish this book had existed when my sons were younger.”
Julie Smith, author, Master the Media: How Teaching Media Can Save Our Plugged-In World
“Today's readers are tomorrow's leaders. And for years to come, they'll remember how Gram and Gran taught them to check sources, question authority, and find the best [extra crispy bacon-jalapeno-cheddar-gorgonzola] poppers in town. Gram and Gran Save the Summer is The Phantom Tollbooth for kids raised in digital playgrounds—and it couldn't be more needed.”
Aldalyn Eleanor Ross, children’s librarian, Newark Public Library
"Gram and Gran Save the Summer introduces media literacy in a fresh and engaging way, weaving essential skills seamlessly into an exciting narrative. By tackling important topics head-on, readers gain the tools to navigate today's media landscape with confidence and critical thinking."
Brittany Washburn, Technology Curriculum Developer
“Gram and Gran is such a clever and delightful way to impart media literacy skills. Children are sure to love it – and parents and teachers too – since it invites the kinds of conversations we want and need.”
Barbara Martinez, former investigative journalist, The Wall Street Journal
"An always amusing story studded with important media literacy lessons."
Kirkus Reviews [Our verdict: Get it]
Gram and Gran Save the Summer sets out to do something no book like it has done: create an opportunity for parents/educators and kids to talk about navigating our media landscape in a fun, whimsical way. If you grew up loving the whimsy of Roald Dahl, chuckling at the wordplay of The Phantom Tollbooth or relishing in the mysteries of Encyclopedia Brown, come visit Barnaby’s Corner: where challenges abound and not everything is as it seems!
Looking for more? Check out our first chapter, our educators’ guide, or inquire about a reading or school/classroom visit using the contact page.