Story Written by Susanne Shaphren
My grandpa needs a new heart. I heard the grownups talking when they thought I was asleep. I wanted to interrupt and ask all sorts of questions like where could we go to get him one and how much would it cost, but I didn't dare say anything at all because I was supposed to be carefully tucked in my bed. Suddenly, I wasn't the least bit thirsty anymore. I went back upstairs and pulled the covers over my head. It took a long time before I could fall asleep. Mom puts exactly the right amount of oatmeal in my sunshine yellow bowl. She adds a handful of fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of brown sugar then passes me the pitcher of milk so I can pour it myself. Concentrating really hard and hoping not to spill a single solitary drop, I don't even notice my grandpa until he's almost at the table. He moves so slowly now exactly like molasses that doesn't want to come out of the jar whenever grandma makes gingerbread. His hands are puffy and his fingernails match the blueberries in my bowl. I want to ask him why he needs a new heart, but I don't dare because I'm not supposed to know. I love to go to the museum. My best friend Stacy practically drags me across the gallery. She can't wait to share her new favorite. ''Putney Winter Heart #8 - Jim Dine' I read the sign. The painting is exactly as tall as my grandpa, at least as tall as he used to be. My grandpa needs a new heart. This one looks perfect to me. There are shoes and socks attached to this heart so my grandpa's poor swollen purple feet won't be cold anymore. One red mitten with a skier woven in will keep his hand warm. He always keeps one hand in his pocket so he doesn't really need two. My grandpa needs a new heart. Surely this one will do.
Author's Statement
My articles and fiction for young readers has been published in Children's Digest, Children's Playmate, Hopscotch, Jack and Jill, Story Station, The Friend, etc. An eclectic assortment of adult print/online venues features my work for adults. I hope "My Grandpa Needs a New Heart" touches your heart just like Jim Dine's exquisite work of art touched mine. After you see "Jim Dine's Putney Winter Heart #8" and hear "My Grandpa Needs a New Heart," let your imagination soar and share your special story.