In Plain Sight
Playful, loving relationship shines in sweet grandpa tale.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Richard Jackson's In Plain Sight, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, won a 2017 Caldecott Honor. It's the gentle story of a simple hide-and-find game young Sophie plays after school with her grandpa, who uses a wheelchair and lives with Sophie, Mama, and Daddy. It's a warm, cozy portrayal of a loving African-American family.
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What's the Story?
Every day after school, young Sophie comes home to her apartment and visits with her grandpa, who tells her he's lost something -- a paper clip, a rubber band, a coin -- which she then finds IN PLAIN SIGHT. They both look forward to this little game. Then on Sunday, Sophie surprises him by hiding behind the curtain in his room -- where he can find her when he wakes up.
Is It Any Good?
This gentle story of a girl and her grandfather reveals layers of caring on both sides. The ritual of their simple afterschool game underscores their sweet, warm relationship in the context of a loving, supportive family -- and their expressive tabby cat -- sharing a city apartment.
Jerry Pinkney's detailed watercolor illustrations in a warm orange and sepia palette spotlight the anticipation and fun of the game, as well as the characters' changing emotions -- including gratitude and empathy -- making In Plain Sight entertaining, relatable, and an especially cozy read for grandparents and grandkids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the grandparent-child relationship in In Plain Sight. What in the art and the story shows you they're close?
Do you play games or share special times with your grandma or grandpa? What do you do together to have fun?
Sophie and her grandpa have lots of fun playing a hide-and-find game and checkers. What other fun things could they do together indoors?
Book Details
- Author: Richard Jackson
- Illustrator: Jerry Pinkney
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Friendship, Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
- Publication date: January 25, 2017
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 7
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated: September 25, 2020
Our Editors Recommend
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The Lion & the Mouse
Retold fable with out-of-this-world art; a true keepsake.
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The Grasshopper and the Ants
Twist on classic fable boosts value of play as well as work.
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Last Stop on Market Street
Tender story of Nana showing grandson city beauty via bus.
For kids who love picture books and grandparent stories
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