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To Mimi's House We Go
Join bestselling author Susan Meissner and other "Mimis" in this Christmas-season poem inspired by the traditional holiday traveling song "Over the River and Through the Woods." Modern families find their way to grandmother's house using a variety of vehicles to celebrate with Mimis, Omas, Gigis, and Nanas.
This sweet Christmas story
is for boys and girls 4 to 8 years old and grandmothers of all names and types;explores the different modern modes of transport used to take Christmas journeys;features rhyming text resembling traditional carols and folksongs; andcelebrates the unique ways families celebrate Christmas while showing the common threads of food, family, and love in them all.To Mimi's House We Go combines the magic of Christmastime with sweet memories of time with Grandma in an adventurous romp through country and city, from coast to coast.
This sweet Christmas story
is for boys and girls 4 to 8 years old and grandmothers of all names and types;explores the different modern modes of transport used to take Christmas journeys;features rhyming text resembling traditional carols and folksongs; andcelebrates the unique ways families celebrate Christmas while showing the common threads of food, family, and love in them all.To Mimi's House We Go combines the magic of Christmastime with sweet memories of time with Grandma in an adventurous romp through country and city, from coast to coast.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2024
About the author
Susan Meissner
34 books8,101 followersSusan Meissner is a USA Today bestselling novelist with more than half a million books in print in fifteen languages. Her critically acclaimed works of historical fiction have been named to numerous lists including Publishers Weekly’s annual roster of 100 best books, Library Reads Top Picks, Real Simple annual tally of best books, Goodreads Readers’ Choice awards, Booklist’s Top Ten, and Book of the Month.
She attended Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego and is a former managing editor of a weekly newspaper. Susan’s expertise as a storyteller and her thoroughly researched topics make her a favorite author of book clubs everywhere. Her engaging and warm speaking style appeal to all manner of women’s groups, literary organizations, libraries and learning institutions, and service clubs.
When she is not working on a new novel, she enjoys teaching workshops on writing and dream-following, spending time with her family, music, reading great books, and traveling.
She attended Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego and is a former managing editor of a weekly newspaper. Susan’s expertise as a storyteller and her thoroughly researched topics make her a favorite author of book clubs everywhere. Her engaging and warm speaking style appeal to all manner of women’s groups, literary organizations, libraries and learning institutions, and service clubs.
When she is not working on a new novel, she enjoys teaching workshops on writing and dream-following, spending time with her family, music, reading great books, and traveling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 15, 2024
A variety of children employ a variety of ways to get their grandmother’s house for Christmas. A lovely picture book for children who love trains or boats or other vehicles, but it’s just as wonderful for tots who love their grannies, whether they live in South Florida or San Francisco, an apartment house or a houseboat or the tundra or the barrio, close or far. The diverse families represented here prove a real delight.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Tommy Nelson in exchange for an honest review.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Tommy Nelson in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2024
This lovely children's book is a celebration of our grandmothers and all they do to provide a welcome home for their grandchildren at Christmas. The illustrations are inclusive and inspire joy and excitement for spending time with family and the holiday season. Reading it, the Christmas smells of both my grandmothers' homes came flooding back from my childhood. This would be a perfect book to introduce a youngster going on their first holiday family trip whether near or quite far. Rest assure, Mimi will let Santa know of any travel plans!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tommy Nelson for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tommy Nelson for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
September 14, 2024
This book reminds me of the poem, turned song: "Over the river and through the woods, To grandmother's house we go". Each spread of pages shows a family of various cultures and living in various places, heading to and spending time at their Grandmother's for Christmas. All types of transportation such as a ferry, a cable car, airplane, pickup, train and more take the family to their Mimi's house. At the houses we see couples, uncles and single grandma's living there. The reader gets to enjoy all different kinds of celebrations based on the family. The end of the book shares various names for grandma's such as Mimi, Nana, Yaya, Oma, Granny and more. My grandkids immediately commented that they call their other grandma Nona. Then the book ends with time for bed. The illustrations are wonderful. They are full of celebration, multi-cultural activities and food, as well as family. We made a list of all the different ways they get to their Mimi's house and there are 13 different ways. Can you guess what they all are? A good book showing how everyone celebrates in their own way, and they all enjoy family time.
September 8, 2024
To MiMi’s House We go is written for children by Susan Meissner, an author whose books I enjoy very much. I usually do not read children’s books. Since my mother was affectionately called Mimi, by her grandchildren, I was intrigued and I requested an advanced reader’s copy.
The book is delightful! This is a Christmas tale, written in rhyme, with colorful illustrations every child should enjoy.
The book is delightful! This is a Christmas tale, written in rhyme, with colorful illustrations every child should enjoy.
November 10, 2024
This is a beautiful children’s book about going to see Mimi at Christmas time. The illustrations in this book are gorgeous!!
This is a book about families spending time together at Christmas no matter how you get there or where you come from. The traditions that families participate in every year are so special.
I highly recommend this book for children of all ages!! It’s a very special book!!
This is a book about families spending time together at Christmas no matter how you get there or where you come from. The traditions that families participate in every year are so special.
I highly recommend this book for children of all ages!! It’s a very special book!!
May 14, 2024
Summary: a cute children’s Christmas book about the many ways and places it can be celebrated.
Likes:
- the illustrations are detailed and darling
- the many different locations the book shows
- the cultural components
Dislikes:
- as a parent reading this book to a child, you develop a rhythm with the rhyming words. This book had many places where the rhythm of the words just didn’t work.
- every time the book says “when to Mimi’s house we go”. It doesn’t seem like that’s a grammatically correct line and it threw me off every time.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Likes:
- the illustrations are detailed and darling
- the many different locations the book shows
- the cultural components
Dislikes:
- as a parent reading this book to a child, you develop a rhythm with the rhyming words. This book had many places where the rhythm of the words just didn’t work.
- every time the book says “when to Mimi’s house we go”. It doesn’t seem like that’s a grammatically correct line and it threw me off every time.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2024
This is a Christmas eve poetry cum picture book. But, in addition it is a family book, I say. It is not just about travelling in holidays from varied available transport sources to the Grandparents' house (here's Mimi), but more importantly to travel back to your roots.
However, I do not relate to this curiosity of travelling to Granny's house much, as we, in India, live as a joint family with our grandparents and do not leave them for other places but, as there are different cultures in different countries, so this must be okay. But yes, I remember when in Summer Holidays I used to visit my maternal grandmother's house, mostly every year. Though, the part that amazes most here is a family gathering. It says a lot about bonding and lots of fun with complete family (uncles, aunts & cousins), specially in festive times.
Here, it was shown for how a child got excited about visiting their Grandparents and got intrigued by each single activity they gonna do there. They remember what they did on pattern and what they will do when they reach to their roots.
There is bit of lacking when it comes to create rhyming. Also, it was only from Child's perspective and should have included what they get back from their granny (Mimi) as in behavior on their sending time with her in terms of values and not just fun.
Overall, this is quite a good story book (also a bedtime one) that make children keep memories of their visits to their Grandparents' house. Illustrations by Mette Engell were also appreciating.
My NetGalley review
However, I do not relate to this curiosity of travelling to Granny's house much, as we, in India, live as a joint family with our grandparents and do not leave them for other places but, as there are different cultures in different countries, so this must be okay. But yes, I remember when in Summer Holidays I used to visit my maternal grandmother's house, mostly every year. Though, the part that amazes most here is a family gathering. It says a lot about bonding and lots of fun with complete family (uncles, aunts & cousins), specially in festive times.
Here, it was shown for how a child got excited about visiting their Grandparents and got intrigued by each single activity they gonna do there. They remember what they did on pattern and what they will do when they reach to their roots.
There is bit of lacking when it comes to create rhyming. Also, it was only from Child's perspective and should have included what they get back from their granny (Mimi) as in behavior on their sending time with her in terms of values and not just fun.
Overall, this is quite a good story book (also a bedtime one) that make children keep memories of their visits to their Grandparents' house. Illustrations by Mette Engell were also appreciating.
My NetGalley review
September 17, 2024
Loved the illustrations and story. Many traditions celebrated “When off to Mimi’s House we go” for years. Wherever your Mimi, grandma, Gigi, or grandmother go she shares traditions passed on. I loved the variety of settings and homes. Home is always where the heart is. I can see sharing this with little ones every year on Christmas Eve. Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this quaint novel filled with traditions and memories to be passed down.
July 23, 2024
To Mimi's House We Go is such a sweet and precious children's book! The poems are adorable and catchy, and the illustrations...wow! Gorgeous! Mette Engel did a stunningly beautiful job. The book shows families of all different backgrounds in all different places. (My favorite place was the one with the pool and the palm trees, of course.) There are all different modes of transportation mentioned too, including cable cars, airplanes, trains, and even horses! This will be fun and interesting to the children, exploring all of the different ways to get to Mimi's house, as well as many different names that children call their Mimis.
This would make a wonderful gift from Mimi to a child, or a gift for a grandmother. Reading this book will certainly become a beloved family tradition that kids and Mimis alike will eagerly anticipate each Christmas.
Thank you to Tommy Nelson for the complimentary Advanced Reader's Copy through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This would make a wonderful gift from Mimi to a child, or a gift for a grandmother. Reading this book will certainly become a beloved family tradition that kids and Mimis alike will eagerly anticipate each Christmas.
Thank you to Tommy Nelson for the complimentary Advanced Reader's Copy through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 5, 2024
Wonderful Christmas book for children with grandparents!
This was a sweet read, perfect for read-a-loud time! The rhyme is sweet and catching, and the illustrations are wonderful!
This was a sweet read, perfect for read-a-loud time! The rhyme is sweet and catching, and the illustrations are wonderful!
May 25, 2024
🦭 ꒰ 메모 ꒱ ۪ ݁ 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
a wonderful story about Christmas, the many ways to celebrate the occasion, and in praise to all the grandmother’s out there! <3 but to be honest, this is like the first children’s book where there were just minimal rhyming words and i feel like that’s the essential part when it comes to reading a child a children's book. thank you to NetGalley once again for this ARC <3
a wonderful story about Christmas, the many ways to celebrate the occasion, and in praise to all the grandmother’s out there! <3 but to be honest, this is like the first children’s book where there were just minimal rhyming words and i feel like that’s the essential part when it comes to reading a child a children's book. thank you to NetGalley once again for this ARC <3
July 12, 2024
A charming beautifully illustrated book by beloved author Susan Meissner, for children aged 4-8 about visiting their Mimi (grandma) during the Christmas season. There are many different journeys and many different types of Mimis, but all end with warm family time with a cherished grandmother. Will make for a wonderful gift that heightens kids' anticipation of the holidays.
August 31, 2024
Book Review: To Mimi's House We Go Kindle Edition by Susan Meissner (Author) & Mette Engell (Illustrator)
Rating: 4 Stars
As the holiday season approaches, I found myself captivated by To Mimi's House We Go, a delightful children's book by Susan Meissner, featuring enchanting illustrations by Mette Engell. This charming story takes readers on a whimsical adventure inspired by the classic holiday tune "Over the River and Through the Woods." It beautifully explores how modern families embark on their journeys to visit their beloved grandmothers—be they Mimis, Omas, Gigis, or Nanas.
The poem captures the spirit of Christmas by portraying various families as they travel across different landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countrysides, all in anticipation of joyful holiday celebrations. Each page is filled with the warmth of family love, delicious food, and shared memories, creating a tapestry that showcases the rich diversity of traditions during this special season. The rhyming text flows effortlessly, reminiscent of traditional carols, making it a delightful read-aloud experience for little ones.
What really struck me about this book is its celebration of grandmothers and the unique ways families come together, regardless of their backgrounds or settings. The illustrations are absolutely stunning—vibrant and full of life—which only adds to the excitement for the upcoming holiday. They transport you right into the heart of Christmas, sparking joy and anticipation.
I believe this book would be perfect for introducing a young child to the idea of their first holiday family trip, whether it’s a quick drive down the road or a longer journey across states. It encapsulates the essence of family bonding during Christmas and serves as a gentle reminder that no matter how we travel or what traditions we uphold, the love we share remains a constant thread.
In conclusion, To Mimi's House We Go is a beautifully crafted story that both informs and entertains. It’s a sweet testament to family, love, and the magic of Christmas that will surely resonate with children aged 4 to 8—and even the grandmothers who will share it with them! I highly recommend adding this lovely book to your holiday reading list.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 4 Stars
As the holiday season approaches, I found myself captivated by To Mimi's House We Go, a delightful children's book by Susan Meissner, featuring enchanting illustrations by Mette Engell. This charming story takes readers on a whimsical adventure inspired by the classic holiday tune "Over the River and Through the Woods." It beautifully explores how modern families embark on their journeys to visit their beloved grandmothers—be they Mimis, Omas, Gigis, or Nanas.
The poem captures the spirit of Christmas by portraying various families as they travel across different landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countrysides, all in anticipation of joyful holiday celebrations. Each page is filled with the warmth of family love, delicious food, and shared memories, creating a tapestry that showcases the rich diversity of traditions during this special season. The rhyming text flows effortlessly, reminiscent of traditional carols, making it a delightful read-aloud experience for little ones.
What really struck me about this book is its celebration of grandmothers and the unique ways families come together, regardless of their backgrounds or settings. The illustrations are absolutely stunning—vibrant and full of life—which only adds to the excitement for the upcoming holiday. They transport you right into the heart of Christmas, sparking joy and anticipation.
I believe this book would be perfect for introducing a young child to the idea of their first holiday family trip, whether it’s a quick drive down the road or a longer journey across states. It encapsulates the essence of family bonding during Christmas and serves as a gentle reminder that no matter how we travel or what traditions we uphold, the love we share remains a constant thread.
In conclusion, To Mimi's House We Go is a beautifully crafted story that both informs and entertains. It’s a sweet testament to family, love, and the magic of Christmas that will surely resonate with children aged 4 to 8—and even the grandmothers who will share it with them! I highly recommend adding this lovely book to your holiday reading list.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
September 16, 2024
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🎄 love Christmas the most
👵🏻 enjoy spending time with your grandma
🖼️ like colorful artwork
📖 are looking for a new children’s book
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
To Mimi’s House We Go is a Christmas-themed picture book perfect for children from three years and on up. The story celebrates the joy of going to grandma’s house for the holidays – no matter what name she goes by and no matter where she lives. The fun, rhyming verses are a riff on the classic Christmas tune, Over the River and Through the Woods. But in this story, the grandmother lives in a lighthouse, or on houseboat, or in a cabin in the forest, or in a brownstone in the city, and the grandchildren who go to visit her use different modes of transportation to get to her place, depending on where she lives. It might be a subway or a ferry or a mini-van or an airplane. And when they get to her place they know they will be welcomed with hugs and cocoa and everything that makes them feel loved, safe, and cherished.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
Oooh I really loved this one! To Mimi’s House We Go depicts so many different families and grandmas! I loved seeing how different each family and the distance they needed to travel was. My favorite ones were definitely the ones with lots of snow and by the water! I loved the house/lighthouse by the water! My boys will absolutely love this one, especially because they can relate to the distance needed to travel sometimes. One grandma lives close by - the other lives states away. I’ve already recommended this book to my step mom! Definitely perfect for kids of all ages!
🎄 love Christmas the most
👵🏻 enjoy spending time with your grandma
🖼️ like colorful artwork
📖 are looking for a new children’s book
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
To Mimi’s House We Go is a Christmas-themed picture book perfect for children from three years and on up. The story celebrates the joy of going to grandma’s house for the holidays – no matter what name she goes by and no matter where she lives. The fun, rhyming verses are a riff on the classic Christmas tune, Over the River and Through the Woods. But in this story, the grandmother lives in a lighthouse, or on houseboat, or in a cabin in the forest, or in a brownstone in the city, and the grandchildren who go to visit her use different modes of transportation to get to her place, depending on where she lives. It might be a subway or a ferry or a mini-van or an airplane. And when they get to her place they know they will be welcomed with hugs and cocoa and everything that makes them feel loved, safe, and cherished.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
Oooh I really loved this one! To Mimi’s House We Go depicts so many different families and grandmas! I loved seeing how different each family and the distance they needed to travel was. My favorite ones were definitely the ones with lots of snow and by the water! I loved the house/lighthouse by the water! My boys will absolutely love this one, especially because they can relate to the distance needed to travel sometimes. One grandma lives close by - the other lives states away. I’ve already recommended this book to my step mom! Definitely perfect for kids of all ages!
November 17, 2024
WOW! “To Mimi’s House We Go” by Author Susan Meissner is an enjoyable, captivating and delightful picture book for all ages. I am a huge fan of Susan Meissner, and I am just so excited after reading this book! It is perfect for Mom’s and Grandma’s and their loving “names:. As a retired teacher (does one ever really retire?), I totally flipped over this book. I can imagine Circle time in Kindergarten doing a picture walk, then reading and singing together “Over the River to Grandmother’s House We Go”. I can just imagine the children giggling and absorbing the wonderful sensory descriptions that the author has written. I can also imagine having a shared writing experience that involves holidays, grandma figures, cultural diversity, transportation, different homes and environments, personal experiences and a variety of holiday foods and special memories. I also envision the music, arts and crafts, allowed food preparation, and literary experiences of the children. This is such a perfect book!! This book almost lends itself to a special group of themes that can be explored. What fun!!
The genres for this amazing book are Picture Books, Christmas and Holiday Books, Family, Children and Traditions. The author and illustrator vividly and visually describe the scenery, the transportation, various locations, an assortment of cultural traditions and foods, and loving family. I highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking book to others. And “Over the River and Through the Woods to Grandma’s House We Go……………” Happy Reading! This is just the perfect present !
The genres for this amazing book are Picture Books, Christmas and Holiday Books, Family, Children and Traditions. The author and illustrator vividly and visually describe the scenery, the transportation, various locations, an assortment of cultural traditions and foods, and loving family. I highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking book to others. And “Over the River and Through the Woods to Grandma’s House We Go……………” Happy Reading! This is just the perfect present !
June 22, 2024
Adorable book! The drawings and ideas were absolutely perfect, but some of the writing was a little clunky.
I'll start with what worked. I loved how each page spread focused on a different family's way of celebrating Christmas with their grandmother. It really shows kids that there are different ways to celebrate a popular holiday, and it helps kids see how life might be different for every family. Adding onto this, the entire book was consistently very diverse, which was something I really liked. At the end, I admired how the author made a point to recognize that there are many things you can call your grandma, and the author noted that that was all good. Lastly, all of the drawings were wildly colorful and detailed. Something notable was the way the illustrator made fireplaces/candles so beautiful and luminous. I have never seen fire be executed so beautifully in a drawing before.
Now for my one critique about the writing. I think that the "when to Mimi's house we go" and the end of every page felt so clunky it almost felt like it wasn't supposed to be there. It didn't rhyme, and the sentence itself is a run-on and it doesn't even make complete grammatical sense on its own. I would either scrap that at the end of every page and only have it at the beginning and end of the book, or change the wording and rhyming so that it fits in a bit better.
I'll start with what worked. I loved how each page spread focused on a different family's way of celebrating Christmas with their grandmother. It really shows kids that there are different ways to celebrate a popular holiday, and it helps kids see how life might be different for every family. Adding onto this, the entire book was consistently very diverse, which was something I really liked. At the end, I admired how the author made a point to recognize that there are many things you can call your grandma, and the author noted that that was all good. Lastly, all of the drawings were wildly colorful and detailed. Something notable was the way the illustrator made fireplaces/candles so beautiful and luminous. I have never seen fire be executed so beautifully in a drawing before.
Now for my one critique about the writing. I think that the "when to Mimi's house we go" and the end of every page felt so clunky it almost felt like it wasn't supposed to be there. It didn't rhyme, and the sentence itself is a run-on and it doesn't even make complete grammatical sense on its own. I would either scrap that at the end of every page and only have it at the beginning and end of the book, or change the wording and rhyming so that it fits in a bit better.
September 7, 2024
3.5 stars. To Mimi’s House We Go is a sweet book with adorable pictures. I enjoyed the rhyming, lyrical flow of the story. As a Pre-K teacher, rhyming books are great for capturing the children’s attention and they love to fill in words as I read based on what makes sense as a rhyming word ending a page. This is the kind of book that allows for that. I am happy to see inclusion in the photos, with the representation of other nationalities and customs. This would be great to help teach my students the importance of other cultures and that we don’t all celebrate in the same way. We all have special ways to spend time with our families and can appreciate our differences. It’s what makes us special and this story helps demonstrate that. It’s also nice to allow children to see that even things such as climate might be different- not everyone has a wintry, snowy Christmas as we do, and as many Christmas holidays themed books often depict! Susan Meissner is one of my favorite historical fiction authors and I was happy to read this children’s book by her (I believe this is her second one and I look forward to checking out her other one as well as purchasing a copy of this one for my students.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tommy Nelson publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tommy Nelson publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 17, 2024
To Mimi's House We Go by Susan Meissner is a fun Christmas book aimed at children ages four to eight.
To start with, the cover of this 8-by-10-inch book is colorful and has texture, which I love. It is also 32 pages long.
I love Susan Meissner's adult books so thought To Mimi's House We Go would be a fun one for children. I do think it is. I love how it depicts lots of ways to go to a Grandmother's house and I love all the different names for Grandma. This fun book also rhymes and is fun to read aloud. I think it is neat the children can see that while kids may call their family members by different names and travel differently, ultimately they all have fun family traditions and names to relate to. I love how this book showcases differences so we can all learn from each other in a fun way.
While To Mimi's House We Go is published by a traditionally Christian publisher, this book could be read by anyone of any faith. I actually think that is great with this type of book. It would also make a nice gift for a child, a grandma, or a family around Christmas time. This book could also be used for some fun discussions to talk about how families are alike and different. The illustrations are colorful and fun to look at as well.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
To start with, the cover of this 8-by-10-inch book is colorful and has texture, which I love. It is also 32 pages long.
I love Susan Meissner's adult books so thought To Mimi's House We Go would be a fun one for children. I do think it is. I love how it depicts lots of ways to go to a Grandmother's house and I love all the different names for Grandma. This fun book also rhymes and is fun to read aloud. I think it is neat the children can see that while kids may call their family members by different names and travel differently, ultimately they all have fun family traditions and names to relate to. I love how this book showcases differences so we can all learn from each other in a fun way.
While To Mimi's House We Go is published by a traditionally Christian publisher, this book could be read by anyone of any faith. I actually think that is great with this type of book. It would also make a nice gift for a child, a grandma, or a family around Christmas time. This book could also be used for some fun discussions to talk about how families are alike and different. The illustrations are colorful and fun to look at as well.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
August 27, 2024
This is a sweet book about traveling to see one’s grandmother for Christmas. It is inspired by the classic song “Over the River and Through the Woods”. The poem, as this piece of writing is described on the back cover, and illustrations depict 13 scenes of families visiting “Mimi” for the holidays. The book’s dedication reveals that the author is referred to as Mimi by her grandchildren and thus each grandmother referenced is given this title. The last page gives nod to the fact that children may use other names when referring to their own family member.
The illustrations depict a variety of environments in which a grandmother might live - urban and rural, house boats and city apartments. They show the different modes of transportation families use for travel including airplanes and trains. Additionally, some homes include uncles while others show Mimi perhaps divorced, widowed or simply without a partner. There seems to be a number of ethnicities as well as mixed-race family constellations shown. The only reference to other cultural traditions, however, is the reference to paper lanterns and piñatas.
Overall a nice book to share about Grandmothers at any time of the year.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The illustrations depict a variety of environments in which a grandmother might live - urban and rural, house boats and city apartments. They show the different modes of transportation families use for travel including airplanes and trains. Additionally, some homes include uncles while others show Mimi perhaps divorced, widowed or simply without a partner. There seems to be a number of ethnicities as well as mixed-race family constellations shown. The only reference to other cultural traditions, however, is the reference to paper lanterns and piñatas.
Overall a nice book to share about Grandmothers at any time of the year.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 19, 2024
It took me two reads to enjoy the book. I enjoyed it once I realized a couple of things: I didn't know Mimi was a name for a grandmother and I thought this was a linear story. I wish there had been a section at the start introducing us to different names for grandmother, rather than at the end. However, once I read it again, I could see this was a great multicultural view of many families.
Every two-page layout is a different family experiencing a Christmas trip to their grandmothers. It's beautifully illustrated and highlights unique family experiences throughout the holidays, through different weather and family units.
I would suggest as you're reading to your little to replace Mimi with whichever name you call you their grandmother, if they are part of their lives. I did that and my daughter was more excited to hear about different Nanas. Thank you, Tommy Nelson, for providing me with an advanced reader's copy.
I'd recommend this for someone's Christmas book collection, especially if you travel a lot during the holidays.
Every two-page layout is a different family experiencing a Christmas trip to their grandmothers. It's beautifully illustrated and highlights unique family experiences throughout the holidays, through different weather and family units.
I would suggest as you're reading to your little to replace Mimi with whichever name you call you their grandmother, if they are part of their lives. I did that and my daughter was more excited to hear about different Nanas. Thank you, Tommy Nelson, for providing me with an advanced reader's copy.
I'd recommend this for someone's Christmas book collection, especially if you travel a lot during the holidays.
June 13, 2024
Thank you so much to Tommy Nelson and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
An ode to Christmas time with your Mimi, what an absolutely beautiful story, it was written in such a sweet way, written in an almost sing song style and the use of repetitiveness wording. It makes it an utterly perfect to read with your children, they’ll pick up on it and join in very quickly.
I loved the illustrations, seeing the diversity and variety of different Mimi’s, of families, of their traditions, cultures and lifestyles that are shown within this story. I loved that last illustration the best with all the Mimi’s together on one page, it was so precious.
This is such a sweet Christmas story, not like ones you’d usually find, but it was so beautiful and lovely. It’s interactive due to its repetitive wording, it’s a beautifully written story and children and families will enjoy this one around the holidays, especially if they spend important time with their Mimi.
An ode to Christmas time with your Mimi, what an absolutely beautiful story, it was written in such a sweet way, written in an almost sing song style and the use of repetitiveness wording. It makes it an utterly perfect to read with your children, they’ll pick up on it and join in very quickly.
I loved the illustrations, seeing the diversity and variety of different Mimi’s, of families, of their traditions, cultures and lifestyles that are shown within this story. I loved that last illustration the best with all the Mimi’s together on one page, it was so precious.
This is such a sweet Christmas story, not like ones you’d usually find, but it was so beautiful and lovely. It’s interactive due to its repetitive wording, it’s a beautifully written story and children and families will enjoy this one around the holidays, especially if they spend important time with their Mimi.
September 10, 2024
When I was a kid, we drove to the Iowa farm homes of both sets of grandparents in a Galaxy 500. Yes, that was a LONG time ago -- the 1970's.
Nowadays my grands have to take a plane from the EU to MCI in Kansas City to see their Grammy and Papa for Christmas. They will need to pack winter clothes similar to what they are wearing back home.
In this new picture book from Susan Meissner and Mette Engell, many different families show the ways they travel to see their Mimi or Oma or Granny or Grammy or your favorite grandmother name. (One of my daughter-in-laws has a grandma she calls "Gogo.") The rhyming narrative and illustrations show a wide range of locations and activities to enjoy together.
If you are travelling to celebrate with family this year, consider reading this new picture book along the way.
Thank you to Tommy Nelson and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Nowadays my grands have to take a plane from the EU to MCI in Kansas City to see their Grammy and Papa for Christmas. They will need to pack winter clothes similar to what they are wearing back home.
In this new picture book from Susan Meissner and Mette Engell, many different families show the ways they travel to see their Mimi or Oma or Granny or Grammy or your favorite grandmother name. (One of my daughter-in-laws has a grandma she calls "Gogo.") The rhyming narrative and illustrations show a wide range of locations and activities to enjoy together.
If you are travelling to celebrate with family this year, consider reading this new picture book along the way.
Thank you to Tommy Nelson and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2024
4.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley, publisher, and author for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
The cover is charming and will attract the interest of young readers. The pictures are adorable, colorful, and complement the accompanying rhyming text. The book's rich colors and diverse images will undoubtedly appeal to children. The rhyming text is simple to read and could even be sung by children, grandparents, or other adult figures. The entire story is well-written, simple to read and comprehend, and provides an opportunity for learning about different cultures, Christmas celebrations, traditions, activities, and modes of transportation. To Mimi's House We Go, written by Susan Meissner and illustrated by Mette Engell, is ideal for anyone seeking a delightful rhyming book with brilliant colored graphics and Christmas learning possibilities.
Thank you to Netgalley, publisher, and author for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
The cover is charming and will attract the interest of young readers. The pictures are adorable, colorful, and complement the accompanying rhyming text. The book's rich colors and diverse images will undoubtedly appeal to children. The rhyming text is simple to read and could even be sung by children, grandparents, or other adult figures. The entire story is well-written, simple to read and comprehend, and provides an opportunity for learning about different cultures, Christmas celebrations, traditions, activities, and modes of transportation. To Mimi's House We Go, written by Susan Meissner and illustrated by Mette Engell, is ideal for anyone seeking a delightful rhyming book with brilliant colored graphics and Christmas learning possibilities.
September 10, 2024
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I loved the illustrations in the book, they are really great and lovely to look at.
I thought that the story was good and it was one my 6 year old daughter really enjoyed too and we loved seeing the different ways that families get ready for Christmas and spending the time with the grandma's/nanny's, etc. She loves being able to read books herself and she was able to do that with this book, so that’s a plus for me and something I definitely encourage. She liked the repetitive nature and that the same sentence was used at the end of the different parts.
We read the book together and then she read it to me the next night and has asked for it again tonight – you can’t really give greater praise to a children’s book than that with the number of books that there are available.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended!
I loved the illustrations in the book, they are really great and lovely to look at.
I thought that the story was good and it was one my 6 year old daughter really enjoyed too and we loved seeing the different ways that families get ready for Christmas and spending the time with the grandma's/nanny's, etc. She loves being able to read books herself and she was able to do that with this book, so that’s a plus for me and something I definitely encourage. She liked the repetitive nature and that the same sentence was used at the end of the different parts.
We read the book together and then she read it to me the next night and has asked for it again tonight – you can’t really give greater praise to a children’s book than that with the number of books that there are available.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended!
October 18, 2024
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I do like Christmas books during the holidays. I think this is a great book to read with your child or grandchild and add to your holiday library.
This is a rhyming book sharing many different places that Mimi's live and the various ways we can get to Mimi's house. Some of these include "down dusty roads," "down the steps and to the subway,"or "step aboard the motorboat" to her deck.
I'd also like to point out there is a list of other grandmother names as part of the book.
The illustrations are beautiful and children will enjoy looking at the various scenes.
The teacher in me saw many opportunities for learning with this book....transportation, family, homes, and travel to name a few.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.
This is a rhyming book sharing many different places that Mimi's live and the various ways we can get to Mimi's house. Some of these include "down dusty roads," "down the steps and to the subway,"or "step aboard the motorboat" to her deck.
I'd also like to point out there is a list of other grandmother names as part of the book.
The illustrations are beautiful and children will enjoy looking at the various scenes.
The teacher in me saw many opportunities for learning with this book....transportation, family, homes, and travel to name a few.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.
May 17, 2024
This is a sweet and relatable story for anyone who has ever loved their grandparent(s). Trust Susan Meissner to get to the heart of things!
Describing the pleasures to be found in a grandmother's house - whatever name your family calls her by, whether it is Grandma, Nana, Mimi, Nanu or something else - allows children to see that there are a range of cultures where grandmothers play a special role and that the form in which they show their caring and interact with their grandchildren can vary from culture to culture. The only constant is love!
There are also delightful illustrations that accompany the rhyming text in the book.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Describing the pleasures to be found in a grandmother's house - whatever name your family calls her by, whether it is Grandma, Nana, Mimi, Nanu or something else - allows children to see that there are a range of cultures where grandmothers play a special role and that the form in which they show their caring and interact with their grandchildren can vary from culture to culture. The only constant is love!
There are also delightful illustrations that accompany the rhyming text in the book.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2024
An adorable book with intriguing illustrations showing different holiday traditions all throughout the world. It could be confusing for children that each "to Mimi's House we go" is a different Mimi, but I did like the way the author summed up the beauty of family at the end of the book. The rhyming didn't feel overworked and the rhythm of the prose made it one that will be a favorite to read over and over again.
This would make a delightful gift for grandkids to give to their grandparents to read together on Christmas Eve!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for giving me an electronic copy to review. I was not required to post a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
This would make a delightful gift for grandkids to give to their grandparents to read together on Christmas Eve!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for giving me an electronic copy to review. I was not required to post a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
October 17, 2024
A Heartwarming Celebration of Family and Traditions
"To Mimi's House We Go" is a fun and engaging book that beautifully centers around the importance of family while celebrating diverse cultural Christmas traditions from various locations across the United States. Readers will find the pastimes and customs of individuals living in different regions to be both informative and interesting, offering a delightful glimpse into how traditions vary yet share the same heart of celebration. What I love most is that, at its core, the book emphasizes **togetherness**, reminding us that the spirit of Christmas is about cherishing the moments we spend with loved ones.
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for a review, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
"To Mimi's House We Go" is a fun and engaging book that beautifully centers around the importance of family while celebrating diverse cultural Christmas traditions from various locations across the United States. Readers will find the pastimes and customs of individuals living in different regions to be both informative and interesting, offering a delightful glimpse into how traditions vary yet share the same heart of celebration. What I love most is that, at its core, the book emphasizes **togetherness**, reminding us that the spirit of Christmas is about cherishing the moments we spend with loved ones.
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for a review, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 7, 2024
To Mimi's House We Go, written by Susan Meissner, is such a sweet holiday story! This book features different families as they prepare for and go to their Mimi's Houses. I loved how inclusive this book was of different family setups, and also that this book was written by a Mimi. The rhyming and beautiful illustrations are sure to be enjoyed by children and families alike! I can definitely picture this being a book that is brought out each year and read the day before going to holiday celebrations.
Thank you to NetGalley, and to the author, publisher, and illustrator of this book for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, and to the author, publisher, and illustrator of this book for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2024
Whatever name you use for your grandmother and wherever she lives that you can go for a visit, the journey is half the fun. With rhyming verse and exquisite illustrations in vivid colors by Mette Engell we take a journey from Bayou to mountains and from small boats to Brownstones to get to a celebration and time to say goodnight.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library. Loved it!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook copy on Adobe Digital Editions from Tommy Nelson, via NetGalley. Thank you!
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library. Loved it!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook copy on Adobe Digital Editions from Tommy Nelson, via NetGalley. Thank you!
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