Book of the Month: The Remember Balloons

The Remember Balloons by Jessie Oliveros has a little bit of everything. A sweet message about memories using balloons as a concept children can understand, a way to explain Alzheimer's/dementia to kids, and connecting all of that to colors and moods.  Also, a real tear-jerker with a perfect tie-in ending.

Summary: James has a bunch of balloons, each of which holds a special memory, but as his grandfather ages and loses his own balloons, James discovers that he is gaining new ones. 

Ages: 5-9 years

"Grandpa's balloons start floating away faster and faster. Running down streets and up hills, I watch the balloons grow smaller." 

This book is definitely sad and beautiful at the same time. This is a perfect book to use to explain how an elderly family member is forgetful. The ending really got to me because it brings a sense of hope to a sorrowful situation. The illustrations done by Dana Wulfekotte also support this picture book's message by making only the balloons colorful and using symbolism that what colors life is our memories.