Books About The Elderly · 168 titles considered

The Best The Elderly Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about the elderly? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About The Elderly

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 1994

Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea

By Cynthia Rylant, Arthur Howard (Illustrator) · Mr. Putter & Tabby series

An elderly man seeks companionship in a cat to ease his loneliness.

44 pages· 584 words· Est. 7 min read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 2,065 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Mr. Putter, feeling the weight of solitude, decides a cat might be the perfect companion. As he welcomes this new furry friend into his life, unexpected adventures and heartwarming moments unfold. Will this old cat be the answer to his loneliness, or will it bring more surprises than he anticipated? Discover the charming tale of friendship and the simple joys that can transform a life.

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 11–15 · 2011

Dead End in Norvelt

Book #1 in the Norvelt series

Grounded for life, a boy uncovers secrets in his town's obituaries, leading to unexpected adventures.

Newbery Medal (2012)

384 pages· 73,677 words· Est. 7 hour read

3.7/5 Goodreads · 22,432 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Jack's summer plans crumble when he's grounded, but life takes a wild turn as he helps his eccentric neighbor write obituaries. Each story unravels secrets of their quirky town, leading Jack into a whirlwind of bizarre events, including a dancing plague and a possible murder. As Jack navigates this strange adventure, he discovers that the past is never truly gone, and the future is full of surprises. Will Jack uncover the truth behind the mysteries, or will he be swept away by the chaos? Dive into a tale where history and hilarity collide in unexpected ways.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2019

The Tide

By Clare Helen Walsh, Ashling Lindsay (Illustrator)

A girl navigates her grandpa's fading memories at the beach.

32 pages

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 318 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: A young girl cherishes beach days with her grandpa, building sandcastles and sharing laughter. Yet, his memories ebb and flow like the tide, sometimes vibrant, sometimes distant. As she grapples with his forgetfulness, she learns how love and understanding can help him live well despite dementia. Can their bond withstand the challenges of fading memories?

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2012

The Frank Show

By David Mackintosh

A boy's dull grandpa reveals a surprising secret at show-and-tell.

32 pages· 1,186 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 276 ratings

$16.95Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: A young boy dreads bringing his seemingly boring Grandpa Frank to school for show-and-tell. Expecting a disaster, he's shocked when Frank unveils a tattoo and shares thrilling tales of past adventures. Could there be more to Grandpa than meets the eye? Discover the unexpected stories hidden beneath a grumpy exterior in this humorous and heartwarming tale.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2018

The Remember Balloons

By Jessie Oliveros, Dana Wulfekotte (Illustrator)

A boy struggles to preserve his grandpa's fading memories as they drift away.

Golden Kite Award (2019)Schneider Family Book Honor (2019)

48 pages· 561 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.7/5 Goodreads · 2,382 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: James cherishes his grandpa's balloons, each holding a precious memory. But as Grandpa's memories begin to slip away, James is heartbroken. When the silver balloon, their shared fishing trip memory, floats off unnoticed, James realizes it's up to him to keep these memories alive. Can he find a way to hold onto the past while embracing the future?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2011

Grandpa Green

By Lane Smith

A great-grandfather's life story from childhood to old age.

The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2011)Caldecott Honor (2012)

32 pages· 161 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 8,755 ratings

Hardcover

Summary: A young boy wanders through his great-grandfather's topiary garden, uncovering a tapestry of memories shaped by love and legacy. Each plant tells a story of Grandpa Green's life, from farmboy to artist. As the boy explores, he discovers the beauty of family history and the power of imagination to preserve what time forgets. What secrets will the garden reveal, and how will they shape the boy's understanding of his own roots? This enchanting journey through a whimsical landscape invites readers to reflect on the enduring bonds of family and the stories that connect generations.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2020

Big Papa and the Time Machine

By Daniel Bernstrom, Shane W. Evans (Illustrator)

A boy and his grandpa journey through time to discover the essence of bravery.

40 pages· 743 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 409 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: A young boy, hesitant to face school, embarks on a time-traveling adventure with his grandfather in a 1952 Ford. As they revisit moments of fear and courage, Big Papa reveals the true meaning of bravery. Through magical realism and heartfelt dialogue, they explore their African American heritage, uncovering stories of strength and resilience. Will the boy find the courage to face his own challenges? This touching tale bridges generations, offering a poignant look at history and identity.

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2012

Love, Amalia

By Alma Flor Ada, Gabriel M. Zubizarreta

A girl navigates loss and discovers her heritage's power to heal.

127 pages· 21,203 words· Est. 3 hour read

5.8/7 Bookroo·3.6/5 Goodreads · 354 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Amalia faces the heartache of her best friend moving away and the sudden loss of her beloved grandmother. Through cherished memories and cultural traditions, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Can Amalia find strength in her heritage to overcome her sorrow and realize her own worth, even when those she loves are far away? This poignant story explores the resilience found in family bonds and cultural roots.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2020

Madame Badobedah

By Sophie Dahl, Lauren O'Hara (Illustrator) · Madame Badobedah series

A young girl suspects a mysterious hotel guest is a supervillain. Is she right, or is there more to the story?

56 pages· 3,674 words· Est. 29 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 585 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Mabel, a curious girl at the Mermaid Hotel, suspects the eccentric Madame Badobedah is a supervillain. With her spy gear ready, Mabel investigates the mysterious guest, who carries bags of treasures and a pet tortoise. As Mabel embarks on imaginary adventures with Madame Badobedah, she discovers that appearances can be deceiving. Is Madame Badobedah truly a villain, or is there a deeper story behind her enigmatic presence? Join Mabel in this whimsical tale of friendship and discovery, where young and old unite against the mundane.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2013

Grandma

By Jessica Shepherd · Child's Play Library series

A child's diary reveals the emotional journey of a grandmother entering care.

32 pages

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 95 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Oscar's diary captures the poignant transition as his beloved grandmother moves into a nursing home. As he navigates the challenges of her dementia, Oscar learns to cherish their evolving bond. Can he find hope and understanding amidst the changes?

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Browse by age

The Elderly Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about the elderly for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$999

I Loved You Before You Were Born

Ages 0–4 · 2001

A grandmother's love awaits her first grandchild's arrival.

Sale price

$899

Go, Grandma, Go!

Ages 0–4 · 2020

Grandma and grandchild embark on joyful adventures, celebrating their special bond.

Sale price

$899

The Grandpa Book

Ages 2–5 · 2011

Celebrate the unique bond between grandfathers and grandchildren with vibrant illustrations and heartwarming tales.

Sale price

$899

Go, Grandpa, Go!

Ages 0–4 · 2020

Grandpa and grandchild embark on joyful adventures, celebrating their special bond.

Series

Sale price

$999

Grandma Wishes

Ages 0–2 · 2015

A special star reveals a grandma's wishes for her new grandchild.

Sale price

$999

Grandma Prays for You

Ages 0–4 · 2019

A grandma bear's prayers wrap her grandbabies in love and faith.

Series

Sale price

$999

Grandma's Kitchen

Ages 1–6 · 2017

Discover the secret ingredients of love and laughter in Grandma's kitchen.

Series

Sale price

$799

My Grandpa Is Grand!

Ages 0–3 · 2022

Celebrate grandpas with a fun, adventurous, and smart tribute.

Series

Sale price

$799

My Grandma Is Great!

Ages 0–3 · 2022

Celebrate the magic and adventure of grandmothers in a vibrant, humor-filled tribute.

Sale price

$799

Grandpa and Me

Ages 0–3 · 2019

A day of adventure and warmth with Grandpa awaits Little Bear.

Sale price

$799

Grandma and Me

Ages 0–3 · 1997

Discover the special bond between a child and their grandma through playful rhymes.

Sale price

$799

I Love You, Grandma

Ages 2–4 · 2017

Celebrate the bond between Grandma and grandchild through a day of love and stories.

View all the elderly board books

Browse by age

The Elderly Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about the elderly for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$1799

Let's Go to Taekwondo!

Ages 3–7 · 2020

A young girl faces her fear of breaking a board with her grandma's support.

Sale price

$1695

Newspaper Hats

Ages 3–7 · 2015

A child helps her grandpa remember through the art of making newspaper hats, bridging memory gaps with love and creativity.

Series

Sale price

$1899

When Grandpa Gives You a Toolbox

Ages 3–7 · 2020

A boy's unexpected gift leads to a creative adventure with his grandpa.

Sale price

$1799

May Your Life Be Deliciosa

Ages 5–7 · 2021

Rosie learns the secret to a flavorful life through her abuela's tamale-making tradition.

Series

Sale price

$1836

Mr. Putter & Tabby Fly the Plane

Ages 4–8

An old man's love for toys leads to unexpected adventures with his cat.

Sale price

$899

Miss Fannie's Hat

Ages 3–5 · 1993

A cherished hat, a tough choice, and the power of giving with love.

Sale price

$1899

Iver and Ellsworth

Ages 5–7 · 2018

Two friends leave their rooftop to find a new adventure.

Sale price

$1799

The Grannyman

Ages 3–7 · 1999

An old cat finds new joy and purpose with an unexpected kitten companion.

Sale price

$1799

Hundred Years of Happiness

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A granddaughter and grandfather grow a special fruit to spark a grandmother's lost memories.

Sale price

$1699

Ojiichan's Gift

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A girl must preserve her grandfather's stone garden as he moves away.

Sale price

$1899

If You Miss Me

Ages 4–8 · 2021

Charlie seeks solace in the moon after losing her beloved dance partner, Grandma.

Sale price

$1795

Dumplings for Lili

Ages 6–8 · 2021

Lili races to gather ingredients for dumplings, uniting neighbors through shared recipes.

View all the elderly picture books

Browse by age

The Elderly Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about the elderly for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$1495

Have You Seen Luis Velez?

Ages 13–17 · 2019

A boy and an elderly woman bond over a mysterious disappearance, discovering kindness amidst fear.

Sale price

$799

Petey

Ages 12–15 · 1999

A man in a wheelchair risks friendship again, changing a young loner's life forever.

Series

Sale price

$599

Mr. Putter & Tabby Fly the Plane

Ages 6–9 · 1997

An old man's love for toys leads to unexpected adventures with his cat.

Series

Sale price

$399

My Pops Is Tops!

Ages 7–9 · 2007

Katie faces the Parent-Kid Olympics with her grandfather and a magical twist.

Series

Sale price

$599

Mr. Putter & Tabby Walk the Dog

Ages 6–9 · 1994

A week of dog-walking turns into chaos for Mr. Putter and Tabby.

Sale price

$1295

Macy McMillan and the Rainbow Goddess

Ages 8–12 · 2017

Macy's world shifts as she befriends Iris, an elderly neighbor, amidst family upheaval.

Sale price

$799

Orphan Train Girl

Ages 8–12 · 2017

A foster girl and an elderly woman uncover shared pasts and forge an unexpected bond.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1795

Harvey Comes Home

Ages 9–12 · 2019

A lost terrier sparks unexpected connections and healing at a retirement home.

Sale price

$1299

Grandpa's Great Escape

Ages 8–12 · 2015

A boy helps his grandfather escape a sinister care home, believing he's back in WWII.

Sale price

$1899

The Memory Keeper

Ages 8–12 · 2019

A girl with perfect memory must uncover her grandmother's hidden past to save her from forgetfulness.

Series

Sale price

$599

Mr. Putter & Tabby Clear the Decks

Ages 6–9 · 2010

A man and his cat go on a sightseeing boat tour with their neighbors to alleviate their boredom.

Series

Sale price

$799

In Grandma's Attic

Ages 8–12 · 1974

A young girl uncovers timeless life lessons through her grandmother's enchanting tales of mischief and discovery.

View all the elderly chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about dementia and Alzheimer's Books about grandpa Books about habits and behavior Books about memory Books about multi-generational friendships Books about pets Books about solving crimes Books about tea

Our 10 Favorite Books About The Elderly

Great books, picked for their age.

The Elderly Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

The Elderly Picture Books

The Elderly Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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