Grandad’s Star pulls at the heartstrings as it tells the story of a famous astronomer who becomes forgetful and can’t remember the names of the stars he’s been fascinated with since he was a boy. His story is told by his granddaughter who sensitively explains Grandad’s situation and shows how she and her mum cope with his memory loss.
The Story: A little girl tells us about her Grandad’s fascination with astronomy. He’s famous and gives talks and answers questions about the stars that are named after him. But gradually Grandad starts to forget the star’s names and then he forgets the little girl’s name. As Grandad becomes more forgetful the little girl shares star stories, teaches him the names of the stars and fixes the old, dented telescope that he’s had since he was a boy.
Grandad’s Star is a beautifully written story that introduces the subject of dementia in a way that a young child can understand. Before he becomes ill Grandad is successful and enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge with his granddaughter and others. But as time goes by and he starts to forget things their roles are reversed and the little girl reconnects with him through his love of the stars and learns to be patient and understanding.
The story is both sad and heartwarming, it oozes with compassion and kindness as the little girl reassesses her relationship and interactions with Grandad as his dementia symptoms become worse. It likens his memory loss to the stars, some days are brighter than others.
We love Rhian Stone’s illustrations which complement the simple, easy to read text. Our favourite spreads show the midnight blue skies and we love the spread at the end with the bear holding his paw towards the little girl.
Grandad’s Star is a thought provoking picture book that can be used to support young readers who may have relatives or friends with dementia. It can stimulate conversations about children’s own situations and help them express their feelings whilst promoting understanding and empathy towards people with dementia.
Age Range: 3 +
Author: Frances Tosdevin / Illustrator: Rhian Stone
Another gentle, heartwarming story that can support children who have relatives or friends with dementia is The Tide by Clare Helen Welsh and Ashling Lindsay.
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