daisy Remembers

This picture book is loosely based on the story of a family friend who struggled with dementia later on in her life. The power of music, kindness, and friendship across the generations, are woven into the story.
Aimed at 4 - 8 year olds. 

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I was going to the park with mum when I first met Daisy. She was sitting on one of the wooden benches by herself, twisting her hands as if trying to remember something.
‘Hi. Have you lost something?’ I asked. She looked up and without replying, looked away. I thought perhaps she hadn’t heard me so I said, ‘Um. . . are you okay? You look sad.’
‘Do I know you?’ she asked softly. ‘I don’t think so. My name is Olive and this is my mum. We live in the house over there.’ ‘That’s nice’ she replied, looking to where I had pointed.
‘Do you live around here too?’ I asked. ‘I’m. . . I’m not sure,’ she frowned. ‘Do you know where I live? I’m trying so hard, but I can’t seem to remember’. Her face was a mixture of worry and hope.
‘I’m sorry, I don’t know. Maybe if you tell us your name?’ She turned away again. ‘I can’t remember my name either.’ A tear started to roll down her cheek.
‘I’m sure my mum and I can help. Why don’t you come home with us and we’ll try and find out for you?’ I looked up at Mum and she nodded her head saying, ‘Yes. Let’s see what we can do.’
I held out my hand and she placed her wrinkled palm in mine.
As we walked back home, I began singing in time to our footsteps. I love music. My grandpa loved music too and the song I sang was an old tune he used to sing to me when I was little.
♪ ‘Daisy, Daisy give me your answer do. I’m half-crazy all for the love of you.’ ♪
Mum and I looked in surprise as Daisy began to sing along. We were almost home when she stopped suddenly and said, ‘Daisy! That’s my name. Daisy Bullock! Now I remember!’ I grinned. ‘Very nice to meet you Daisy.’
Back home, Daisy told us she was having trouble remembering things but when I began singing, her memory started to come back.
Mum made us a cup of tea and Daisy remembered more and more. She remembered she lived on the other side of the park with her daughter. ‘Singing those old songs helped me a lot Olive.’ She patted my hand and smiled.
Mum and I drove Daisy home. Her daughter was so happy to see her and gave her the biggest hug. She explained how Daisy was having trouble remembering things lately. I said that was okay because everyone forgets sometimes.
Before we left, Daisy asked if I would come visit her again. I said I’d like that very much. Now, when we go to the park together, we sing all the old songs my grandpa taught me.
And Daisy remembers everything just fine.

Daisy. © Kerry Gittins 2020. All Rights Reserved.