Grampa's Alkali

by Jo Bannatyne-Cugnet

Maybe it's just bad luck, but ten-year-old James Johnston cannot seem to keep out from under his Grampa's feet. But there is also an undeniable bond between James senior and junior, a bond which proves to be a lifeline when danger strikes.

Hardcover

Published December 1, 1993

About the author

Children’s author Jo (Elizabeth Jo-Anne) Bannatyne-Cugnet was born on July 19, 1951, in Estevan and grew up in that city. She completed a BSc in Nursing at the University of Saskatchewan in 1974, and started work in Weyburn as a public health nurse. Bannatyne-Cugnet wrote to learn for herself and to teach her four sons about life on a prairie farm. She has been most successful in collaboration with Yvette Moore of Moose Jaw, the illustrator for A Prairie Alphabet, A Prairie Year, and Heartland, A Prairie Sampler, which have sold nearly half a million copies and won several awards. Other books include two novels for young children, one of which was translated into French, and a picture book on new Canadians. Regina composer Elizabeth Raum was inspired by Bannatyne-Cugnet’s work to write a symphony for children, “A Prairie Alphabet Musical Parade,” which has been recorded by the Regina Symphony Orchestra. Following early retirement from nursing in 1994, Bannatyne-Cugnet continues to write but spends considerable time doing volunteer work for community, social service and arts organizations.

Bob Ivanochko

Reviews

[Megan Holodniuk · Rating 1 out of 5]

Literally the worst book I have ever had to read. It's so bad I sought it out on Goodreads just to tell everyone how much I hate this book.
Jo's other books are two of my favourite children's books - I LOVE A Prairie Alphabet and a Prairie Year. Not sure why she felt she had to write this atrocity.

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Farm boy's special relationship with his grampa.