When you stop to think about it, being a grandparent is a pretty great gig: you’ve got all the joy of parenting with added experience and perspective. In Jewish tradition, the concept of l’dor vador (Hebrew for “from generation to generation”) refers to the important role older family members play by passing down traditions. It’s an impulse that comes naturally to grandparents, who have a lot of wisdom and humor to share. In this list, readers will find some extra special stories celebrating the role of grandfathers in a child’s life.
Written by Andrew Larson, illustrated by Sandy Nichols
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Every Sunday, Eli’s zaida picks up bagels at Merv’s Bakery for his friends. But when Zaida hurts his tuches, he can’t make the trip to Merv’s. Will he and his friends still have Sunday bagels?
Written by Marc Kornblatt, illustrated by Nanette Regan
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
At 81 years old, Mr. Katz is very different from the other students who come to Sarah’s father for bar mitzvah lessons. Sarah isn’t sure what to make of thisclumsy and forgetful man with a Russian accent, but she loves listening to his beautiful singing. As Sarah gets to know Mr. Katz better, she soon realizes that she’s made a friend — one who might have something to teach her, too.
Written and illustrated by Phoebe Gilman
Recommended for ages 3 to 5
Joseph’s grandfather, a tailor, made him a blanket when he was a baby. As Joseph grows and changes, his grandfather makes the blanket change, too -- into a jacket, a vest, a tie, even a button. What happens when the last of the blanket finally disappears?
Written and illustrated by Barney Saltzberg
Recommended for ages 2 to 3
Teatime with Zayde is always fun! Lucky for this little one, he’s never far away, either -- thanks to the miracle of the digital age.
Written by Jennifer Wolf Kam, illustrated by Sally Walker
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Until the blueberries grow . . . until the grapes are ripe . . . until the snow falls . . . until the flowers bloom . . . Ben tries to convince his great-grandfather to stay in his house just a little longer as the two celebrate a yearly cycle of Jewish holidays together.
Written by Elsa Okon Rael, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman
Recommended for ages 8+
Zeesie is a little afraid of Zaydeh, her grandfather. He’s always so serious and stern. But when Simchat Torah rolls around, Zeesie sees a different side of him. Something about this holiday brings out joy in everyone -- even Zaydeh!
Written by Jane Sutton, illustrated by Kate Chappell
Recommended for ages 3 to 4
Ruthie and Zayde have a long list of things to do before Passover begins. From sliding down a slide to cleaning the house, Zayde makes every task feel like fun!
More
How PJ Library Chooses Books
PJ Library’s Grandparents’ Program
What is L'dor V'dor?
July 20, 2026