Finding Nana's Shadow

About the Book

A tender, moving story about the evolving bond between a young girl and her grandmother following Nana's Alzheimer's diagnosis. Helping families find the words, the courage, and the love to navigate this journey together.

Before Reading

1. Who is someone special in your family? What do you love doing with them?
2. What is a memory? Why are memories important?
3. Have you ever heard the word Alzheimer’s? What do you think it means?

Discussion Questions

1. How does the girl feel when Nana starts to change?
2. What are some ways she still shows love to Nana?
3. What helps the family cope together?
4. What can we do when someone we love forgets things?
5. Why do you think the book is called “Finding Nana’s Shadow”?

Vocabulary

Alzheimer’s

an illness that makes it hard for the brain to remember

diagnosis

when a doctor finds out what illness someone has

patience

staying calm and kind while waiting or helping

empathy

understanding how someone else feels

bond

a close, loving connection between people

Activities

• Memory Box: Decorate a box and fill it with drawings, photos or notes about happy times with someone you love.
• Feelings Wheel: Draw a wheel of feelings. Point to how you feel today and talk about it with a grown-up.
• Kindness Card: Make a card for a grandparent or older neighbor to brighten their day.

Curriculum Connections

Social-Emotional Learning · Health · Writing · Art