Review By: Anonymous
Published: 1984
Genre(s): Realistic Fiction, Humor, Family
Audience: Grades 4–7
Content Warnings: None
Goodreads Link: The War with Grandpa
Summary:
Peter thinks the only way he can reclaim his room is by declaring war on his grandfather.”Captures the anger and frustration that accompanies a child’s inability to control his life.”– “School Library Journal.”
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Award, William Allen White Award, Tennessee Children’s Choice Book Award, Parents’ Choice Award, An IRA-CBC Children’s Choice, Mark Twain Award, Young Hoosier Award, South Carolina Children’s Book Award, Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader’s Choice Award, Georgia Children’s Book Award.
Review:
The War with Grandpa is a sweet and funny story that captures the special bond between a grandson and his grandfather. Peter, a 10-year-old boy, is devastated when his grandpa moves in and takes over his room. Feeling angry and displaced, Peter decides to go to war with Grandpa, pulling harmless pranks in hopes of reclaiming his space. The tricks will make readers laugh, and the consequences remind you of being a kid yourself.
The story explores themes of growing up, empathy, and understanding others’ perspectives. Peter’s father tells him, “Growing up isn’t easy, sometimes you have to do things you don’t like,” which becomes a central theme. The ending is heartwarming and shows how love and family can overcome even the silliest conflicts.
This book offers great classroom connections—students can analyze character traits, motivations, and changes over time. It’s perfect for lessons on figurative language, perspective, and problem-solving. Activities might include writing from Grandpa’s point of view, creating persuasive essays, or comparing the book to its movie adaptation.
The War with Grandpa is an engaging, humorous read that resonates with both children and adults.
