For some of us of a certain age, writer Anna Quindlen has been a faithful companion for decades. From her New York Times columns to her books of essays and fiction, she’s created a voice of wisdom, humor, and compassion to help us navigate life as part of the Baby Boomer generation. And just like that, she, along with many of us, has now become a grandmother. And with great good fortune, we have her words of grandma wisdom in her new book, Nanaville. From negotiating visits to offering advice, Anna provides us with guidance on the joys and challenges of being a 21st century Nana. It’s clear from the reviews, critics and fans alike welcome this latest work. For some glowing reviews and insights, read here and here.

And writer Ann Patchett also has a new book coming out in May, but this one may be better enjoyed reading to your grandchild. Called Lambslide, the work is a children’s picture book about a school election and a group of lambs excited about their upcoming “slides.” Hilarity ensues and even some lessons are imparted in this sweet collaboration between Patchett and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser. What you should also know is that Ann Patchett is a fierce devotee of independent bookstores, and in fact runs her own bookstore in Nashville called Parnassus Books. You can read an interview with Patchett about her new children’s book on the Parnassus website here and find out what she recommends reading this spring by clicking here.