Patricia MacLachlan concludes the cycle of stories that began with Sarah, Plain and Tall (HarperCollins, 1985) in an event that brings together the many well-loved members of the Witting family: Anna’s marriage. For young Cassie, who narrates the story, excitement about her sister’s wedding comes in fits and starts: the arrival of the lively aunts from Maine, her brother Caleb’s arrival home from school, the beautiful blue dress Aunt Maddie has made her. Cassie acutely observes all of the excitement as well as the constants in her daily life, which includes the special relationship between two people she adores: her little brother, Jack, and her grandfather. One may be small and the other big, but they are kindred spirits through and through. In a story full of joy but fringed with sorrow, MacLachlan’s narrative offers simple, moving acknowledgment that life delivers both. (Ages 8–11)

Could anything be more perfect than a prairie wedding? Cassie doesn't think so, for a wedding brings:

Two lovebirds together,
Aunts from faraway Maine,
A long white dress with a wedding veil,
Zinnias,
Satin ribbons,
Dancing under a clear blue sky,
And a world that smells of roses.

And as the Witting family comes together for this most special day, Cassie sees that life brings:

The change of seasons,
Brother Jack on Grandfather's lap,
A brand-new car,
Joy,
Sorrow,
And a special dance only Grandfather does.

Sarah, Plain and Tall began the Witting family's saga on the prairie. Now the story completes its circle with Grandfather's Dance, Patricia MacLachlan's poetic celebration about the enduring spirit of family.