A thought-provoking little book of experiences and insights that has a lot to offer

From the December 2015/January 2016 issue of our magazine, Janet Baylis, Manager of the Society's Dementia Knowledge Centre, reviews a book that is in turn funny and thought-provoking.

Dear dementia: The laughter and the tears by Ian Donaghy

This is a little book of short pieces – statements, thoughts and insights – about dementia, each of which is illustrated. However this simple description doesn’t begin to do it justice.

This book is in turn funny and thought-provoking, capable of making readers laugh and also shed a tear. It shares feelings and emotions to help people better understand dementia, and will have a wide appeal for anyone affected by the condition. The format could be particularly attractive for people with dementia who might want to read it with someone.

It comes as no surprise to learn that the author and illustrator has had family experience of life with dementia. He 'gets it' and it was this that motivated him to produce the book.

Hawker (2014), £9.99, ISBN: 9781874790860, from www.careinfo.org and elsewhere.

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