Grandpa Never Lies is a children's book written by Ralph Fletcher

Ralph Fletcher

Ralph Fletcher is a writer of children's picture books, young-adult fiction and poetry as well as an educational consultant who has also written books for both children and professional educators on the craft of writing.-Biography:...

 and illustrated by Harvey Stevenson. It was first published in 2000.

Plot summary

A young girl describes her special relationship with her grandfather over four seasons. The Grandfather tells imaginative tales in response to her questions. Each tale is followed by her refrain of "And Grandpa never lies, so I know it's so". Then Grandma suddenly dies and the little girl and her grandfather mourn together.

Reception

Alicia Eames reviewing for the School Library Journal

School Library Journal

The School Library Journal is a monthly magazine with articles and reviews for school librarians, media specialists, and public librarians who work with young people. Articles cover a wide variety of topics, with a focus on technology and multimedia. Reviews are included for preschool to 4th grade,...

 said that "the lyrical language and engaging use of imagery are worth noting. Richly hued acrylic illustrations complement the mood of the text moving smoothly from bright and fanciful to dark and somber. Suitable for read-alouds, but perhaps even better for sharing individually." Lauren Peterson reviewing for Booklist

Booklist

Booklist is a publication of the American Library Association that provides critical reviews of books and audiovisual materials for all ages. It is geared toward libraries and booksellers and is available in print or online...

said "despite the death, this is an upbeat, joyous story of an intergenerational relationship that will strike a chord with many children. Stevenson's acrylic pictures are done in an appealing painterly style, with obvious brushstrokes and interesting use of color and line."