There's always room for one more

Clare is excited that Grandpa is coming to live in her home, but when she joins her family on a shopping expedition to find a larger dining room table, she has trouble managing her anger and sadness at losing the old, familiar one. Her mother soothes her by acknowledging her sense of loss but encourages her to consider that Grandpa will be missing his old surroundings, too. Back at home, surrounded by relatives and neighbors working to welcome her grandfather, Clare regains her positive outlook on the changes in her household and picks flowers to decorate the table. Sitting beside Grandpa at dinner that evening, she's pleased to discover that the new table accommodates even more family members and friends. McGrath's portrayal of Clare's shifting emotions will resonate with many children, who rely on stability at home to provide their basic security. A London-based British Indian illustrator, Lobo creates pictures that project the child's intense feelings as well as suggest the affection shared within Clare's family and her diverse community. A warm, inviting picture book.

Preparing for Grandpa to move in means saying goodbye to a beloved table and embracing the chance to make memories with a new one. Although excited for Grandpa's arrival, young Clare feels conflicted when Mama announces that their family needs a bigger dining table. Memories of their old table and anxious questions swirl in Clare's mind as the family brings home and lovingly fixes up their new one. Neighbors, friends, and family stop by with things to help Grandpa feel at home and receive cordial invitations ("There's always room for one more") to join them for dinner in return. But change is hard, and Clare eventually dissolves into tears. Mama comforts an overwhelmed Clare and says that Grandpa might be missing what feels like home to him, too. Clare is encouraged by the suggestion that a larger table means more room to make new memories, and the child's first memory will be to help bake a peach cobbler, Clare and Grandpa's favorite treat. The family puts the finishing touches on their feast with the arrival of guests and then finally Grandpa, who is pleased at the surprise. McGrath deftly immerses readers in Clare's mind, while Lobo's warm and whimsical illustrations capture this caring, tightly knit Black family and their diverse community. With the party now in full swing and new memories to cherish, Clare fully understands that "there's always room for one more." (This book was reviewed digitally.) A helpful tale for building empathy and navigating change. (Picture book. 4-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.