Other Words for Nonno

A lovely intergenerational story about a grandfather and his granddaughter, Other Words for Nonno by Dave Cameron and Yong Ling Kang is a story about connection and remembering.

Nonno and Jill go for a walk together every day. Nonno is pretty silly and likes to make up new words for things and encourages Jill to do the same, it’s a little game they play when they are out walking. When Nonno starts forgetting his words, Jill comes up with a plan to help him out.

Dave Cameron has created an intergenerational story that will seem familiar to many readers. As grandparents age they may move to different places, like a Sunrise Manor, that can feel strange and not so inviting to young readers. Dave Cameron shows readers that even though a grandparent may be in a place that feels strange to us, it’s the best place for them to be.

I love how he describes the relationship between Jill and Nonno. They are buddies and spend lots of time together which will remind some readers of their own grandparents and elders. The affection Jill has for Nonno is clear through the text and such a beautiful example for readers.

I also love the treatment of Nonno forgetting his words. Dave Cameron doesn’t describe it as scary, it’s worrisome for Jill but it just makes her jump into action to help Nonno remember his words. I also appreciated how not every solution to an elder growing older is to have them move in with the young family. 

Yong Ling Kang’s illustrations are perfect for this story. Her watercolour illustrations are light and airy and serve as the ideal vehicle to tell the story. I love how the tones change from day to evening as Nonno and Jill take their walks and spend time together.