Wishes for One More Day

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Wishes for One More Day

Written by Melanie Joy Pastor
Illustrated by Jacqui Grantford

A grandfather’s death inspires his grandchildren to create a book of wishes in this sensitive portrayal of dealing with the loss of a loved one.

When Anna and her little brother Joey hear the sad news about their Poppy’s death, they begin to think about what they would do if they could have one more day with him. They smile thinking about Poppy’s crazy birthday hat, giggle at the silly songs Poppy used to plunk out on the piano, and laugh out loud at the weekly chicken-soup game they played with him at the deli.

As the list grows into a pile, the pile becomes a book—a book of wishes for one more day with Poppy—or, as their mother explains, a memory book of the love and fun they shared with him, since all of their wishes have already come true.

This treasured memento celebrates Poppy’s life and helps Anna and Joey keep his memory alive for years to come.


About the Creators


Melanie Joy Pastor is a studio teacher who educates child actors on television sets around Los Angeles. She is passionate about teaching Writer’s Workshop to budding young minds, and is developing a program to promote emotional health in schools. Melanie has two children of her own whose curiosity about life leads to endless discussions and provides inspiration for her writing. In her spare time, she likes to swim, hike, and relax at the beach. She lives in Woodland Hills, California, and Wishes for One More Day was her first picture book.


Jaq Grantford is an Australian author and artist. Her passion for portraiture is evident in the many children’s books she’s illustrated. One of her greatest joys is to paint the faces of the characters, especially children, all shiny and bright. Jaq’s work is held in numerous collections, including the National Gallery of Victoria, and she has won international awards for her art. She lives in Melbourne with her two very helpful studio cats.

ISBN:  ePDF 9781947277649  EPUB 9781947277656  KF8 9781947277663
Print Length: 32 Full Color Pages
Age Group: 4-8