Harper Collins

July 2022

Imprint: ABC Books AU

• ISBN: 9780733342578
• ISBN 10: 0733342574

RRP: $24.99

The length of time I’ve been sitting on this is certainly no reflection of its quality or value so please don’t think it is. Given my rather tumultuous year, there came a point where I just thought – save all these PBs for November so now you are getting the benefit of them all in one 30 day extravaganza *grin*.

I’d venture to say that there would be very few families who have not been touched by dementia or Alzheimer’s in some way. I know that often when I talk to kiddos, younger or older, there are numerous anecdotes regarding family members who are affected and we talk about how difficult and sad it can be.

My own beautiful Mum slipped further and further away from us for nearly ten years before we lost her altogether and it was heartbreaking. We talked to our little people about what was happening with Nanny but a sensitively written book such as this is a godsend to families faced with the same situation.

Lucy has dementia and knows it. She knows she forgets things and that she remembers things but there is no predicting which. Fortunately she has family and friends looking out for her to help her and when she remembers her granddaughter’s wedding but forgets that her daughter is picking her up, a solo bus trips turns into a worrying and anxious time. With good fortune, all ends well but it is certainly a timely reminder to those of us in this situation to always be mindful of what can happen.

This is Sally Yule’s first foray into writing and is based on her long years of experience working with Alzheimer’s patients and families, as well as her own parents. This first-hand experience was her impetus to share with families and children to help them understand more about living with dementia. The additional material from Professor Ralph Martins [Foundation Chair in Ageing and Alzheimer’s Disease at Edith Cowan University WA, and Professor of Neurobiology at Macquarie University NSW.] and Maggie Beer, [much-loved cook, author and former Senior Australian of the Year] is a wonderful bonus. I know, I’m going to try out some of Maggie’s recipes for sure.

Highly recommended for your readers from Prep upwards and I would strongly suggest sharing the information on this one with your community via newsletter or socials as well as ensuring your guidance officer/counsellor has a copy to hand. Extensive teaching materials available as attached.