Going Down Home with Daddy

Written by Kelly Starling Lyons · Illustrated by Daniel Minter

At a family reunion, a boy seeks a unique way to honor his heritage.

5.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,749 ratings

32 pages· 1,150 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

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Bookroo's summary

Lil Alan joins his family at Granny's house for their annual reunion, where stories of ancestors and cherished traditions come alive. As each child finds a way to honor their heritage, Lil Alan faces the challenge of discovering his own special tribute. Will he find a meaningful way to connect with his family's rich history? This beautifully illustrated tale celebrates the enduring power of family bonds and cultural legacy.

"Hand in hand, we create a ring inside the house Pa built for Granny. / Heart to heart, we share what we're thankful for."

— from the book

From the publisher

“On reunion morning, we rise before the sun. Daddy hums as he packs our car with suitcases and a cooler full of snacks. He says there’s nothing like going down home.”

Down home is Granny’s house. Down home is where Lil’ Alan and his parents and sister will join great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Down home is where Lil’ Alan will hear stories of the ancestors and visit the land that has meant so much to all of them. And down home is where all of the children will find their special way to pay tribute to family history. All the kids have to decide on what tribute to share, but what will Lil’ Alan do?

In this rich and moving celebration of history, culture, and ritual, Kelly Starling Lyons’ eloquent text explores the power of family traditions. Stunning illustrations by Coretta Scott King Honor-winner Daniel Minter reveal the motion and connections in a large, multigenerational family.

Awards

Caldecott Honor (2020)

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Words: 1,150
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: 660L

Themes & topics

Books about family Books about culture Books about family history Books about family life Books about multigenerational

After the last page

Talk about it together

Lil Alan shares pieces of his family heritage for the celebration. Do you know where your ancestors came from? What does being part of your family mean to you?

Lil Alan and his sister have a blast playing with cousins at grandma's house. What do you enjoy doing most with your extended family?

Good to know

Stories behind the story

Kelly Starling Lyons discusses Going Down Home with Daddy on The Children’s Book Podcast

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.4

out of 7

“Ultimately, he gifts an object lesson that emphasizes the legacy of love that brings them together as a “mighty family.” Imagery is presented in marvelous metaphors . . . while lighthearted ribbing . . . and soul food . . . set the scene for a celebration of myriad African-American and family traditions.”

Kirkus

Critic · Starred review

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