David is excited when he hears that Grandad is coming to live with his family on Gros Isle. David remembers how Grandad showed him all sorts of wonderful things when he used to visit him on his dairy farm. Now it's David's turn, and there is so much he wants Grandad to see about his life on the island.
But when Grandad finally arrives, he just sits on the porch in a rocking chair, staring out at the water. He isn't even hungry for pancakes. David is afraid to ask Grandad what's wrong: does he just miss his cows, or is he unhappy with life on David's island? This poignant story captures the urgency of a child's desire to be accepted by, and to give in return to, someone he loves.
