Gram and Gran Save the Summer
A Whimsical Adventure in Media Literacy
Do you have what it takes to save the summer – and the world?
When Nia, Deja, and D’Angelo’s summer camp closes unexpectedly, they learn they’ll be spending the summer with their Gram and Gran – two figures they barely know who live on a tiny island off the coast of Maine. Their mom is hoping they’ll have a screen-free summer, but to their surprise, the island is dominated by a giant skyscraper that gives free, hyperfast Wi-Fi to all. The inventor who built it? Vanished. And as for Gram and Gran? They’re more than a little bizarre.
Can you solve a series of puzzles and get to the bottom of the island's mysteries? As the siblings will learn, there’s a lot more than just their summer on the line.
What People are Saying
“Today's readers are tomorrow's leaders. And for years to come, they'll remember how Gram and Gran taught them to check sources, question authority, and find the best [extra crispy bacon-jalapeno-cheddar-gorgonzola] poppers in town. Gram and Gran Save the Summer is The Phantom Tollbooth for kids raised in digital playgrounds—and it couldn't be more needed.”
Aldalyn Eleanor Ross
CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN, NEWARK PUBLIC LIBRARY
“Gram and Gran is such a clever and delightful way to impart media literacy skills. Children are sure to love it – and parents and teachers too – since it invites the kinds of conversations we want and need.”
Barbara Martinez
FORMER INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
“Stephen and Dan have created a thoroughly original, relevant work that not only encourages critical thinking but demonstrates how digital literacy skills are necessary in almost every aspect of life. In an entertaining way and engaging way, they've provided readers with tools to help them navigate the digital world. I wish this book had existed when my sons were younger.”
Julie Smith
AUTHOR, MASTER THE MEDIA: HOW TEACHING MEDIA CAN SAVE OUR PLUGGED-IN WORLD
About the authors
Stephen Chiger loves teaching – whether it’s students or adults. An award-winning educator and sought-after presenter, Steve helps lead the literacy program at Uncommon Schools and is the co-author of Love and Literacy, a book on teaching English. As a former journalist who remains obsessed with media, he co-wrote Gram and Gran with his son in mind.
Daniel Pereira is a social worker in Alexandria, Virginia. Before entering social work, he was a high school English teacher for 17 years. He loves (in no particular order): poetry, bookmaking and book history, fancy food, goofing around, Oxford commas, and pebbles.
FREE Guide
Grab the accompanying Teacher Guide. This Teacher Guide includes key terms, a universal lesson plan, and a chapter by chapter study guide.
Invite Stephen and Daniel to read their book, Gram and Gran Save the Summer during a virtual or in-person author visit for your school.
