In Grandma and Me: A Kid’s Guide for Alzheimer’s and Dementia by Beatrice Tauber Prior Psy.D. and Mary Ann Drummond RN, Mathew loves spending time with his Grandma. She teaches him all about the different animals and plants in her garden, and together they share a love of nature. Then one day Grandma is different, she is no longer able to tell him stories or walk around her garden. Mathew is worried that he will never have a close relationship with his beloved Grandma again. Then Mathew learns that he and Grandma can have a new type of relationship. It is now his turn to tell her stories, and sing to her when she is feeling unwell. He knows that it is her illness that makes her act differently. Mathew now understands the symptoms of Alzheimer's and knows that Grandma will always love him.

I found this story very poignant and well-written. The authors are obviously extremely knowledgeable on the subject of Alzheimer's and dementia, but the way they have created a story to help young children understand is fantastic. I especially loved the explanation of how the brain’s functioning alters, and the ‘meet me where I am' care. The language and illustrations used are perfect for parents to help explain such a complex and upsetting subject to their children. The relationship between the young boy and his grandmother was very touching, and one that many children would relate to. The whole message was uplifting and positive. An huge thumbs up to the authors; this is an exceptional book and one that will help children remain close to any loved one who suffers with this illness.

Grandma and Me: A Kid’s Guide for Alzheimer’s and Dementia by Beatrice Tauber Prior Psy.D. and Mary Ann Drummond RN tells the story of a young boy named Matthew who has a very special relationship with his Grandma. He enjoys visiting her garden and she tells him about the birds and the flowers and the insects. Even when he gets stung by a bee, Matthew doesn’t mind too much as his Grandma treats the sting with special cream. Matthew is saddened that sometimes his Grandma is not feeling well, or doesn’t understand questions, or gets confused about the date, or sometimes even calls Matthew by his father’s name. This is because at times Grandma thinks Matthew is her son rather than her grandson. Grandma might sometimes be sad, but Matthew knows how to cheer her up and how to make her laugh.

This story is very sensitively written, explaining what is happening to Grandma and why things are changing. The book is written with the intention of an adult reading the book to a child, which gives the opportunity for the child to ask any questions, or talk about any concerns they may have about the behaviour or change in someone suffering from dementia. The book is beautifully illustrated by Julia Walther with soft colours and appealing characterisations, making this a very useful tool for explaining such a sensitive subject. The authors have also added some useful information which helps the adult reader too. Altogether a skillfully crafted book to help explain what can be a confusing situation for children.

Great book to help explain dementia to children and it's helpful to adults as well.