Wordsworth Dances the Waltz

by Frances H. Kakugawa

Book Overview

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0979064732
• ISBN13: 9780979064739
• Release Date: May 2007
• Publisher: Watermark Publishing
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.4" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

More than just another children's book...

As with all of Kakugawa's other works, this one provides powerful insights to young and old alike, without the overbearing moralizing often thinly disguised in childrens literature. In this case, the lessons are multilayered. It breaks the 'ice-puzzle' for kids who live in households where grandma or grandpa's "condition" is still some kind of mysterious secret. The easy lesson is that those suffering from Alzheimer's remain family members, with the need for respect and love no different from any other family member - even if their needs for care may differ. The more difficult lesson is that we have as much to gain from the people we care for as they have from us. Kids will pick up on that on first reading. Adults may take a few more reads before they get it. It's a 'must read' for all kids and a reminder for anyone who thinks people with dementia are useless and strange. Ms. Kakugawa also conducts workshops and support groups for the Alzheimer's Assn. and other organizations. The book makes it clear that she's no arm-chair story-teller when it comes to caring for and about people. If there was another star, I'd give it to 'Wordsworth Dances the Waltz' hands down.

Should be a part of every elementary school and community library picturebook collection

Wordsworth the Poet is a little mouse who is worried about his Granda. She's is losing her memory and having trouble doing things she used to be able to do quite easily. What can Wordsworth as a loving grandson do to help his Grandma? This is the story and premise for "Wordworth Dances The Waltz", a superbly written picturebook story by Frances H. Kakugawa which is enhanced throughout with the full color illustrations of Melissa DeSica. Just what can Wordsworth do? Well for one thing, writes some poetry to express the situation and his feelings. In the end, Wordsworth comes to understand that despite all the changes in his Grandma's behavior, he still loves her and always will. "Wordworth Dances The Waltz" is an especially recommended picturebook for young children experiencing the phenomena of memory loss, Alzheimers, and other forms of dementia manifesting within their own grandparents. Simply stated, "Wordworth Dances The Waltz" should be a part of every elementary school and community library picturebook collection for young children.