When I See Grandma

When I See Grandma is a picture book by Australian duo Debra Tidball (author) and Leigh Hedstrom (illustrator), for pre /early school children. It is about two young children who visit their Grandmother in an aged care home, and was inspired by Debra’s experiences of taking her children to visit their Grandmother during her decline with dementia.

The two children in the story are sometimes sad to see their Grandma because she seems to be always asleep, but they are glad that they can ‘brighten her dreams.’ As they do this, the reader gains an insight into Grandma’s past, linking her past to the present and the children’s vitality transforms the setting to the benefit of the other residents. The children make memories they will treasure forever whilst helping Grandma remember.

When I see Grandma is a love story that connects generations in a powerful way despite barriers posed by age and illness. Author royalties are donated to the Hazel Hawke Dementia Research and Care Fund.

What reviewers have said:

Author Debra Tidball and illustrator Leigh Hedstrom have combined to produce a colourful and delightful children's hardcover book: When I See Grandma.

This little gem is designed to teach little ones to treasure and appreciate life in all its many stages – and that being old, frail and infirm is just as much a part of living as being young and vibrant. It also teaches children that they can have a positive influence on the lives of those they love and who love them.

This would make an excellent gift from Grandma to her young grandchildren. It is designed for pre-school and early grade school children. DS via Goodreads.

To see other reviews on Goodreads, visit https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20985022-when-i-see-grandma

To find other reviews, including a radio interview with SBS, go to Debra’s blog on her website www.debratidabll.com

Released February 2014 and published by Wombat Books, When I See Grandma can be purchased at http://www.wombatbooks.com.au/when-i-see-grandma or from good bookstores including Berkelouw Books, Lindfield Bookshop, The Children’s Bookshop Beecroft and Koorong stores.