I find grandmothering a very meaningful and enjoyable part of my life. Some most favorite interactions with precious little ones in our family have been found when reading to them. Time recently spent with a two-year old adjusting to life with new twin baby sisters included reading Dooby Dooby Moo no less than about 20 times. That particular book was new to him, and he just couldn't get enough of it. (I like to think it was my elegant warbling voice). Every opportunity I could give him for snuggling up looking at books together was important in filling his emotional tank at this challenging time in his young life. I could sense him pulling in feelings of security and reassurance-that-all-was-well right along with his being fascinated or entertained by the stories and being kept busy. When I would switch to focusing on the babies, with either his mom or dad switching to him, they often seemed to gravitate to reading together also. And now that I can't be with them for a few weeks, I take comfort myself in knowing they'll be doing a lot of that!
Sometimes it has been important to make a trip to the library or bookstore to search for the right materials to enjoy together because it can take quite an assortment to choose from. Interest is affected very much by age, gender, and personality. Asking for recommendations from librarians and people who spend time with children's literature is wise; there's generally no lack of enthusiasm about their favorite books to share.
Free or inexpensive digital photo programs for family albums are great for preparing simple picture books --- instantly recognizable, and they're the most interesting! Copied pages are best if laminated and can be spiral bound or even in plastic sheaves in a three ring binder. They do have to be able to withstand rough'n tough treatment; that's just the way it is. One Grammie I know makes a yearbook of pictures she's taken during the previous year to send out at Christmas time for her grandchildren to enjoy remembering the things they did together or cousins far away, etc. With just enough accompanying notes of names of people, places and dates, it doesn't take long for a two-year-old to be found "reading" it to himself, though she includes well-thought out comments, either humorous or in some way geared to remind her family of her love and esteem for them.
Here are a few examples of other fun books that can keep a wiggly little boy sitting still on a lap, but also can keep Grandma's mind from being bored, (an obvious detriment to the whole thing, or course). No, David! or David Gets in Trouble by David Shannon; I'll Love You Forever by David Munsch--(skip some of the words if it goes too slow, and be sure to sing some sort of melody at the right times); and The Monster at the End of This Book , a Little Golden Book. I love the Little Golden Books of Baby Dear by Eloise Wilkin, and Carol Goes to Kindergarten by Clara Cassidy. But they're reserved for granddaughters usually, and that's another story for another time.