Really and Truly: a story about dementia   

Stories about dementia aimed at young children are unusual, and when they are combined with beautifully produced illustrations as well, they are something to shout about.  Charlie and his grandpa share a loving and close relationship, and grandpa tells the most glorious stories.  Whether about a pirate in the attic or a witch in the garden shed or a gnome in the cellar, his stories make Charlie happy, and they always end with the words, ‘Really and truly, Charlie.’  When grandpa goes into the darkness of dementia and must live in a care home, Charlie and his mum and dad visit every week.  Grandpa doesn’t seem to know them or be interested in them, so Charlie decides to make up stories for his grandpa just like grandpa used to do for him, and the stories have a magical effect.  They help him focus on his family, to eat when he hasn’t wanted to, to begin talking again, and, finally, and most importantly, to smile.  Charlie (and the reader) understands that Grandpa isn’t going to get better, that the dementia has destroyed his mind, but Charlie can make him happier with his stories even though that happiness is brief.  The importance of family love and the acceptance of what is happening makes this a ‘really and truly’ great story, and the pictures are exceptional – dark colours when the gloom sets in and bright ones during the fun times, accompanied by little ink-black figures that help the stories along.  So many families are distressed when an older member suffers with dementia, and children need to try to understand what is happening.  This little book will provide that understanding and will be a catalyst for discussion.