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Remember, Grandma?
Margaret's grandma is the special kind. She wears sneakerswith yellow laces and laughs very loud. They go for walks, sing songs together, and gather apples to make Grandma's special mile-high apple pie. But lately Grandma gets mixed up. More and more she can't remember. She forgets the way home and sometimes she doesn't even know Margaret. "She still loves you," says Margaret's mother, "even if she can't remember your name."
Warm and accessible, Remember, Grandma? is an important book that will strike a chord with many readers. For families who have a relative facing memory loss, it may trigger important conversations. And for all children with aging family members, it provides gentle reassurance about the love within families that endures even when memory does not.
Author Biography: Laura Langston llives in an old white house on Vancouver Island with her family. She has had several books published in Canada and England.
Lindsey Gardiner is the author/illustrator of the popular Poppy and Max picture books, among others. She is a lecturer in textile design.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 7, 2004
1 person is currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Laura Langston
32 books33 followersBy the time she hit Grade Four, Laura Langston knew she wanted to be a writer. So did the teachers. It was the persistent daydreaming and invisible friends that tipped them off. Since Laura grew up knowing no writers – and consequently didn’t know how to be one – she became a journalist instead. The trouble is, journalists are expected to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
But making stuff up is way more fun. So eventually Laura traded one notebook for another and today she writes books for tweens, teens, children and sometimes adults.
When she’s not writing, reading or walking her Shetland sheepdogs, Laura can be found spying on people in the grocery store or twisting herself into a pretzel in yoga class. To learn more, visit www.lauralangston.com. Follow her at www.facebook.com/LauraLangston.Author
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 25, 2017
Words can not describe the way i felt after reading this beautiful book. I have nothing but praise for the soft and curvaceous illustrations, the charming words used and the beautiful portrayal of such a saddening illness.
This touching story encaptures the relationship between a Grandma and Granddaughter. The story is from the young Granddaughters point of view and thus this makes the narrative even more touching. We are taken on a journey to hear about all the things they love to do together and the endearing tokens the granddaughter enjoys doing for her Grandma. These include picking the Grandma her favourite flowers, playing the piano to her and together, making Mile-High Apple Pie.
As the story develops, so does the Grandmas dementia and soon she forgets who her Granddaughter is. This is such a saddening part of the story and one that touches the reader most. The author leads on from this skilfully by involving the mother and using her to explain and reassure her daughter.
The book ends with the Granddaughter coming to terms with her Grandmas loss of memory. The last page is heart-warming and beautiful as the Granddaughter reassures her Grandma by re-introducing herself; " I am Margaret, I am your remembering".
A must read by all.
This touching story encaptures the relationship between a Grandma and Granddaughter. The story is from the young Granddaughters point of view and thus this makes the narrative even more touching. We are taken on a journey to hear about all the things they love to do together and the endearing tokens the granddaughter enjoys doing for her Grandma. These include picking the Grandma her favourite flowers, playing the piano to her and together, making Mile-High Apple Pie.
As the story develops, so does the Grandmas dementia and soon she forgets who her Granddaughter is. This is such a saddening part of the story and one that touches the reader most. The author leads on from this skilfully by involving the mother and using her to explain and reassure her daughter.
The book ends with the Granddaughter coming to terms with her Grandmas loss of memory. The last page is heart-warming and beautiful as the Granddaughter reassures her Grandma by re-introducing herself; " I am Margaret, I am your remembering".
A must read by all.
April 29, 2009
Happily sloppy artwork and perfectly picked words and pace present the first-person ponderings of a young girl as her once spunky grandmother slips into forgetfulness in this sweet, sad tale of coping and compassion.
More grandmothers on JOMB:
The Grandmother Doll
Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick
When-I-Was-a-Little-Girl
The Gardener
The Lotus Seed
Snow
Sourpuss and Sweetie Pie
Treasure For Lunch
Falling Angels
The Clay Ladies
Healing the Wounds of World War II
A Gift For Gita
Carmine, A Little More Red
Petite Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood
Grandma’s Feather Bed
Bintou’s Braids
Seven Brave Women
Suki’s Kimono
The Not-So-Only Child
A Very Unusual Dog
Aunt Claire’s Yellow Beehive Hair
Mama’s Saris
Mr. Hiroshi’s Garden
I Am Small
Before You Were Here, Mi Amor
The Party
We’d love to hear your thoughts on a favourite children’s book. Leave a voice message on our JOMB listener hotline, +1-206-350-6487.
More grandmothers on JOMB:
The Grandmother Doll
Getting to Know Ruben Plotnick
When-I-Was-a-Little-Girl
The Gardener
The Lotus Seed
Snow
Sourpuss and Sweetie Pie
Treasure For Lunch
Falling Angels
The Clay Ladies
Healing the Wounds of World War II
A Gift For Gita
Carmine, A Little More Red
Petite Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood
Grandma’s Feather Bed
Bintou’s Braids
Seven Brave Women
Suki’s Kimono
The Not-So-Only Child
A Very Unusual Dog
Aunt Claire’s Yellow Beehive Hair
Mama’s Saris
Mr. Hiroshi’s Garden
I Am Small
Before You Were Here, Mi Amor
The Party
We’d love to hear your thoughts on a favourite children’s book. Leave a voice message on our JOMB listener hotline, +1-206-350-6487.
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October 27, 2009Summary: a little girl tells a tale of her grandmother that is losing her memory. The granddaughter comments on examples of times the grandmother might remember, but won’t remember the next time around. The little girl gives explicit detail to her grandmother’s quirks and traits for the readers to find charming. It portrays a tough topic, like Alzheimer’s or Dementia, in a lighthearted way for other young children to possibly understand and not fear.
2. Reading Level: Fluent
3. Genre: Fictional
4. Social Issues The Book Addresses: Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia. Children coming to grips with grandparent’s aging.
5. Specific curricular uses: Read Aloud. The book provides a lot of text for a teacher to work with to make it an interesting book to hear read aloud. Could also be read during independent reading for a particular student who might be dealing with a similar situation.
6. Specific literary elements the book demonstrates: The book plays with fonts. The fonts are large, small, round, stiff, and all sorts of different types. They seem to create emphasis on particular words to make them more dramatic. It’s neat to see font play such an important role in storytelling. The story is told through the granddaughter. The granddaughter is showing us how she understands or doesn’t understand her grandma’s memory loss. It allows the reader to feel a personal connection to this narrator’s inner voice.
7. Interactions & counteractions of the text & image: The text sticks close to the illustrations. The text clusters itself around the actual illustration it is referring too. It’s a cool way to see text and illustration interact with each other. This little girl often mentions more than one thing per page, so the text congregates with the illustration so the reader is able to understand better. The fonts, actual text, and illustration all work together to create the end product.
2. Reading Level: Fluent
3. Genre: Fictional
4. Social Issues The Book Addresses: Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia. Children coming to grips with grandparent’s aging.
5. Specific curricular uses: Read Aloud. The book provides a lot of text for a teacher to work with to make it an interesting book to hear read aloud. Could also be read during independent reading for a particular student who might be dealing with a similar situation.
6. Specific literary elements the book demonstrates: The book plays with fonts. The fonts are large, small, round, stiff, and all sorts of different types. They seem to create emphasis on particular words to make them more dramatic. It’s neat to see font play such an important role in storytelling. The story is told through the granddaughter. The granddaughter is showing us how she understands or doesn’t understand her grandma’s memory loss. It allows the reader to feel a personal connection to this narrator’s inner voice.
7. Interactions & counteractions of the text & image: The text sticks close to the illustrations. The text clusters itself around the actual illustration it is referring too. It’s a cool way to see text and illustration interact with each other. This little girl often mentions more than one thing per page, so the text congregates with the illustration so the reader is able to understand better. The fonts, actual text, and illustration all work together to create the end product.
October 12, 2017
Having watched my own grandma battle with Alzheimer's for the best part of a decade, this book really struck a chord with me. I think it would be a lovely way for a child to begin to understand Alzheimer's or any other kind of dementia
November 5, 2019
Book Title: Remember, Grandma?
Author/Illustrator: Laura Langston/ Lindsey Gardiner
Reading Level: 2.6
Book Level: This would depend on the individual student. In general, I would say that because of the content/theme/ideas of the book, that I would rate this as being between second grade through fifth or sixth grade. This text could be appropriate, though, to introduce a middle schooler to this sensitive topic.
Book Summary: "Remember, Grandma" written by Laura Langston and beautifully illustrated by Lindsey Gardiner is a gentle, yet heartwarming, account of a young girls journey experiencing a close loved one's (her Grandmother's) progression through memory loss. While at times a tear jerker, this story masterfully weaves a story of the pain the comes with memory loss with the love and support that can still continue to thrive even in these types challenging life circumstances.
Bookshelf Genre:
Picture Books
Bookshelf Mentor Writing Traits:
Ideas - "Remember, Grandma" written by Laura Langston and illustrated by Lindsey Gardiner would make a powerful mentor text when teaching the writing trait of "Ideas". This novel can easily be used to show students how they can structure writing around a strong, clear, idea that is both memorable and impactful. "Remember, Grandma" is a beautiful example of how you can utilize a strong idea, such a memory loss, to weave a story that not only touches an individual's emotions, but also gives them a glimpse into what many families face with their older loved ones.
Author/Illustrator: Laura Langston/ Lindsey Gardiner
Reading Level: 2.6
Book Level: This would depend on the individual student. In general, I would say that because of the content/theme/ideas of the book, that I would rate this as being between second grade through fifth or sixth grade. This text could be appropriate, though, to introduce a middle schooler to this sensitive topic.
Book Summary: "Remember, Grandma" written by Laura Langston and beautifully illustrated by Lindsey Gardiner is a gentle, yet heartwarming, account of a young girls journey experiencing a close loved one's (her Grandmother's) progression through memory loss. While at times a tear jerker, this story masterfully weaves a story of the pain the comes with memory loss with the love and support that can still continue to thrive even in these types challenging life circumstances.
Bookshelf Genre:
Picture Books
Bookshelf Mentor Writing Traits:
Ideas - "Remember, Grandma" written by Laura Langston and illustrated by Lindsey Gardiner would make a powerful mentor text when teaching the writing trait of "Ideas". This novel can easily be used to show students how they can structure writing around a strong, clear, idea that is both memorable and impactful. "Remember, Grandma" is a beautiful example of how you can utilize a strong idea, such a memory loss, to weave a story that not only touches an individual's emotions, but also gives them a glimpse into what many families face with their older loved ones.
May 8, 2023
This is not a book to read for fun, not a book to read frivolously.
Instead, this is the kind of book to read to your child if an elderly relative has come to live with you, a relative with dementia.
The characters of the grandmother, Margaret's mother, and granddaughter Margaret... All of these are beautifully drawn, with dialog that seems to flow out of everyday life.
It's a book full of wisdom, caring, compassion, and bittersweet love. Very human and helpful.
Not only FIVE STARS for this creation of Laura Langston, with pictures by Lindsey Gardiner.
Not only FIVE STARS but, in addition, I'm shelving this book with "Highest Praise." I can't imagine a better picture book on this tender topic.
Instead, this is the kind of book to read to your child if an elderly relative has come to live with you, a relative with dementia.
The characters of the grandmother, Margaret's mother, and granddaughter Margaret... All of these are beautifully drawn, with dialog that seems to flow out of everyday life.
It's a book full of wisdom, caring, compassion, and bittersweet love. Very human and helpful.
Not only FIVE STARS for this creation of Laura Langston, with pictures by Lindsey Gardiner.
Not only FIVE STARS but, in addition, I'm shelving this book with "Highest Praise." I can't imagine a better picture book on this tender topic.
September 6, 2021
Que ternura de libro, tan importante que los niños conozca. Las signos que pueden observar en las personas de edad mayor que van perdiendo la memoria. Incluso las enseñanzas de sus padres al paso de las circunstancias acompañados de la abuelita. Hace que ellos entiendan mejor la situación. Me encantó.
May 3, 2019
Nämä lapsille suunnatut, muistisairaudesta kertovat kirjat ovat kyllä erittäin riipaisevia ja kaihoisaa luettavaa. Toisaalta olen äärettömän onnellinen, että näin vaikeaa asiaa voi käsitellä sadun kautta. Kirjan kuvitus oli sopivan herkkää aiheeseen liittyen.
February 5, 2021
Hermosa y conmovedora historia sobre el cariño que jamás de se olvida, porque no se lleva en la frágil mente sino en el corazón.
February 14, 2015
Remember, Grandma?:
This book touched my heart in a soft spot, because I had a grandmother who started losing her memory before she passed away. This book first appealed to me because I was close with my grandparents and I figured I would enjoy the book. I enjoyed the book immensely, but it definitely hit home for me. I think this is a great book to maybe show a child who might be going through a tough situation like this with one of their grandparents. This book can show that child that is okay and it isn't their fault that their grandparent is losing their memory. It shows how the child can still be there for their grandparent even if the grandparent doesn't remember that child. This book really does have a strong meaning behind it that can help students try to understand things through difficult times.
This book touched my heart in a soft spot, because I had a grandmother who started losing her memory before she passed away. This book first appealed to me because I was close with my grandparents and I figured I would enjoy the book. I enjoyed the book immensely, but it definitely hit home for me. I think this is a great book to maybe show a child who might be going through a tough situation like this with one of their grandparents. This book can show that child that is okay and it isn't their fault that their grandparent is losing their memory. It shows how the child can still be there for their grandparent even if the grandparent doesn't remember that child. This book really does have a strong meaning behind it that can help students try to understand things through difficult times.
July 11, 2013
Wonderful portrayl of dementia through the eyes of a young child.
Unfortunately we were only able to find ONE copy in only ONE library in the whole of NSW, Australia.
This book should be widely available to help children understand the issues that face their loved ones,and to help them understand the feelings they have about the changes.
My daughter is 8 and wonders daily what is happening with her Nanna (who lives with us, as does the Margaret's Grandma in 'Remember, Grandma?') and feels guilt, frustration and fear about the loss of her Nanna.
Highly recommend this book to anyone with a family member with dementia, as even an adult will gain something from reading this simply written and wonderfully illustrated story.
Unfortunately we were only able to find ONE copy in only ONE library in the whole of NSW, Australia.
This book should be widely available to help children understand the issues that face their loved ones,and to help them understand the feelings they have about the changes.
My daughter is 8 and wonders daily what is happening with her Nanna (who lives with us, as does the Margaret's Grandma in 'Remember, Grandma?') and feels guilt, frustration and fear about the loss of her Nanna.
Highly recommend this book to anyone with a family member with dementia, as even an adult will gain something from reading this simply written and wonderfully illustrated story.
July 29, 2011
A young girl shares many things with her grandmother: a love of music, taking walks and baking pies. Grandma is getting older, though, and is starting to have trouble remembering things. Throughout the story, grandma's illness progresses from simply mixing things up (the names of flowers) to mistakenly going into a neighbour's house and forgetting her grand-daughter's name. A sensitive and melancholy book that explores the feelings a young child may have as they experience the progressive dementia of an older relative. (It ends on a tender, but up-lifting note.)
June 6, 2014
So sad! This is a great little easy picture book dealing with an elderly person whose memory is not the way it was. The loss of memory is difficult for kids to fully understand and this cute read expresses the hurt it may cause but overall still maintaining a great relationship.
It was pretty sad for me to read since I had a great Aunt that was like this and I was that little girl who wondered why she kept asking who I was, but she was a sweet old lady and enjoyed keeping us entertained with crafts.
It was pretty sad for me to read since I had a great Aunt that was like this and I was that little girl who wondered why she kept asking who I was, but she was a sweet old lady and enjoyed keeping us entertained with crafts.
September 13, 2012
This story is a bout a grandmother who is suffering from memory loss. Her granddaughter, Margaret is confused and needs to be reassured that even though her grandma can't remember things she still loves her family. This is a touching book that would be great to introduce to children that are going through the same thing with their older family members.
October 17, 2013
This book touched me deeply. I am very cloose with my grandmother and share many interests with her and she is infact getting older and has been a little forgetful lately. This is a great book for a child who is experiencing the same type of situations. Getting old is difficult but it is a part of life and children need to learn that these things happen in old age.
September 16, 2009
Alzheimer's is a tough topic to tackle in a kids' book, but I think the author did a great job. I started bawling as I read this though and scared my daughter...It think it would be a good book for those dealing with this illness in their own families.
December 8, 2009
What a touching book about a young girl and her grandmother's experience with Alzheimers.
March 21, 2011
A great book to help children and families dealing with those that have Alzheimers or dementia.
I love how the story ended and how their is a recipe at the end of the book.
I love how the story ended and how their is a recipe at the end of the book.
August 15, 2008
This is a beautiful story that sensitively covers the involuntary forgetfulness of a loved one.
April 5, 2013
Story about progressivly worse alzheimers that is handled very well.
April 24, 2013
Great book to explain to children the effects of Alzheimer's disease. Any age or grade. Illness.
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November 8, 2018This is a really sweet way to explain to a child the things that can happen to their grandparents. The artist has created a heart-warming book through these illustrations. Very touching ending.
Read
November 27, 20181) This book has won: Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People designation, National Council for the Social Studies/Children's Book Council
2)k-4th
3)This book is about a young girl named Margaret who is beginning to understand that her grandma is loosing her memory. At first, Margaret didn't believe her dad when he said grandma will eventually stop forgetting everything but then one day, she doesn't remember Margaret's name. This makes Margaret upset and she doesn't want to be with her grandma as much until her grandma remembers certain things about Margaret which makes her realize that she still loves her even if her grandma can't remember her name.
4)I thought this was a sweet book that taught a good lesson about what happens to people sometimes as they age. It subtly hints that Margaret's grandma has Alzheimer's disease without actually saying that she does. This can be relatable for many kids as it is a common disease and it can be hard to deal with when you don't understand what is happening.
5)-Could be used to teach kids about different family structures because the grandma lives with them and have the students draw a picture/write a sentence about who lives with them
-Could be used to give kids a brief lesson about Alzheimer's disease and a few other diseases that some people in the class may relate too or know someone who has it
2)k-4th
3)This book is about a young girl named Margaret who is beginning to understand that her grandma is loosing her memory. At first, Margaret didn't believe her dad when he said grandma will eventually stop forgetting everything but then one day, she doesn't remember Margaret's name. This makes Margaret upset and she doesn't want to be with her grandma as much until her grandma remembers certain things about Margaret which makes her realize that she still loves her even if her grandma can't remember her name.
4)I thought this was a sweet book that taught a good lesson about what happens to people sometimes as they age. It subtly hints that Margaret's grandma has Alzheimer's disease without actually saying that she does. This can be relatable for many kids as it is a common disease and it can be hard to deal with when you don't understand what is happening.
5)-Could be used to teach kids about different family structures because the grandma lives with them and have the students draw a picture/write a sentence about who lives with them
-Could be used to give kids a brief lesson about Alzheimer's disease and a few other diseases that some people in the class may relate too or know someone who has it
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews