My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry is a novel by Frederik Bachman.    It is narrated by a clever, but “different” seven year old girl (Elsa).  She is close to her grandmother, but when she dies, she leaves Elsa with some questions, some clues, and some tasks to undertake.    Her grandmother’s life, her family, and the people who live nearby are all brought into focus.    The story is told with humor and imagination, but also a strong sense of poignant understanding of the ways of children and adults.    Themes of grief, family values, compassion, and personal growth fill every chapter, even when the setting is in Elsa’s fantasy world.

Another fine book by Frederik Bachman.   An unusual book, but for those with patience and faith, a good one.  4.5 stars/5