I always think books are a great present. I would consider buying your granddaughter the Pinkalicious series of books or the Fancy Nancy series of books. My son, who is almost 5 is really into anything Star Wars or Transformers. Hope that helps! Dont know if an 8 year old would be. You shoudl also check out the holiday gift guides on the site for some more inspiration!

Mine are 9 (girl) and just turned 5 (boy) but I think I can help. I'll have more ideas for a four year old girl since I've been there already.

Four year old girl:
Fisher Price digital camera (I reviewed it.)
Eloise books
The new Tinkerbell movie (It's been reviewed also.
Four year olds would also like anything Crayola or Play Dough related.

Eight Year Old:

Oh, Yuck! A book of gross stuff kids who don't even like to read love. It's perfect for this age. (I reviewed it.)
The New Wall E movie (Also been reviewed.)
Good luck!

You mean there are 3 stop lights in Brookneal??? lol