Kate Knapp, Ruby Red Shoes: My Wonderful Grandmother, HarperCollins Children’s Books, March 2020, 32 pp., RRP $19.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781460758885
Ruby Red Shoes is the creation of author and illustrator Kate Knapp. Ruby is a hare who lives with her wise and wonderful grandmother Babushka Galina Galushka.
Throughout the pages of this book Ruby shares with readers what’s wonderful about her grandmother. The words used by Knapp feel warm and honest as they highlight just how truly wonderful Ruby’s Grandma is. Paired with the cream-coloured pages and delicate watercolour illustrations this book provides an overall sense of love and kindness while encouraging reflection and gratitude in the reader.
Grandma doesn’t worry about what others think of her, and she gives Ruby the best cuddles. She helps Ruby to solve problems and find answers, and shares her sense of adventure. Ruby is very lucky to have her Grandma as she has many life lessons and insights to share.
We can all learn from Ruby’s Grandma who is unapologetic for exactly who she is and what she likes, whether that be day trips to the beach or afternoon tea in the garden. Her outlook on life and the messages she shares with her granddaughter are important life lessons and values which we can all appreciate, like being open to new things, helping each other, making friends, and taking care of ourselves and each other.
A delightfully heart-warming story for children and their loved ones.
Reviewed by Raquel Mayman
