The Hello, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster

Caldecott Awards/Honors 2 of 5

The Hello, Goodbye Window is an easy read for young readers. This book takes place at Nanna and Poppy’s, the grandparents’ house of a little girl. Her experiences at her grandparents’ house are very special. The window in the kitchen is a very special window for this little girl because it is the first place she sees her grandparents when she goes to visit, and it is the last place when see leaves. The window is where they greet the day and say goodnight to the stars. The window is where they watch for visitors or talk to their own reflections. On the outside of the window is the garden and backyard where the little girl plays and helps to work; and on the inside of the window is the kitchen where the little girl gets hugs and kisses and can always find her grandparents. This story tells of many happy memories the little girl has of her grandparents that most people can relate to their own lives. The illustrations are very colorful and childlike, which is a very appealing touch to the story. This book reminded me of visiting my grandparents on the farm and the wonderful things we discovered every time we went to visit. Sourpuss and Sweetie Pie is another book by Norton Juster about going to Nanna and Poppy’s house.