The Vanderbeekers Make a Wish

One hilarious Harlem family is on a mission to find the perfect way to celebrate their Papa’s fortieth birthday while discovering more about their mysterious grandparents in this heartfelt romp and fifth installment to the New York Times bestselling series, perfect for fans of the Penderwicks. 

It’s summer on 141st Street, and the Vanderbeekers are looking forward to Papa’s surprise fortieth birthday party.

But then Papa must leave town to help his best friend and the Vanderbeeker children are surprised to find their maternal grandparents on their doorstep. Grandma is very critical of everything they do. Meanwhile, they find themselves learning more about their papa’s father than ever before and wishing they could have known him a bit better. Can they learn more about the grandfather they lost and come to appreciate the grandparents they still have while making sure their papa has the best birthday ever?

Karina Glaser is a former teacher and now a contributor to Book Riot. Karina lives in Harlem, New York City, with her husband, two daughters, and an assortment of rescued animals. One of her proudest achievements is raising two kids who can’t go anywhere without a book.