Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs
By Tomie dePaola
The Story
A four-year-old boy loves visiting his grandmother and great-grandmother, Nana Downstairs and Nana Upstairs, until one day his mother tells him Nana Upstairs won't be there anymore.
Why It's Special
For the child who's never had to say goodbye to someone they love, this is a gentle way to sit with that feeling before real life asks them to.
- Big idea: Love between generations doesn't disappear — it changes shape, and that's something even a young child can hold.
- Vibes: Tender, quiet, honest about loss without being heavy.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on understanding death and loss
- enjoy stories about grandparents and family
- respond well to calm, gentle storytelling about big feelings
- are processing the loss of a loved one
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Tommy felt when his mother told him Nana Upstairs wouldn't be there anymore?
- Real-life connection: Do you have a grandparent or great-grandparent you love visiting, like Tommy did?
- Story & problem-solving: What did Tommy love about visiting both Nana Downstairs and Nana Upstairs?
- Feelings & empathy: What are some ways we can say goodbye to someone we love?
- Imagination: What are your favorite memories with the people in your family who love you most?
