Dancing with Memories

Dancing with Memories by Sally Yule with Professor Ralph Martins and Maggie Beer, illustrated by Cheryl Orsini (HarperCollins Australia) HB RRP $16.99 ISBN 978176043994

Lucy, an old lady introduces herself, saying, ‘Sometimes I remember I forget. Sometimes I forget that I remember.’ She tells the reader that her home is full of memories, with the words, ‘Dancing with memories helps me remember.’ Today is special as her granddaughter is getting married. She puts a note about the wedding in her handbag and sets off to meet the four o’clock deadline. She catches a bus but forgets where she is headed. She meets friends who take her home where everyone is waiting. Although Lucy has dementia she can still dance at her granddaughter’s wedding.

This is a simple story that introduces young readers aged 5+ years to the concept of aging and dementia. It is colourfully illustrated with lots of white space. In a double-page spread at the end of the book, Professor Ralph answers questions about dementia, while on the last four pages, well-known cook, Maggie Beer, saying children should have a colourful and diverse diet, offers two double-page spreads of recipes, and healthy lunchboxes.