Grandfather's Story Cloth

Grandfather's Story Cloth by Linda Gerdner and Sarah Langford is a wonderful story. This book is written in English and Hmong, as both Gerdner and Langford have interest and a background in immigrant needs and Laos in particular. This book was also produced in cooperation of the Extendicare Foundation which focuses on research, education and service related programs pertaining to Alzheimer's Disease.
Grandfather lives with Chersheng, his grandson and the rest of Chersheng's family. While they know that grandfather forgets things - like turning off the water, or where he is living, he has never forgotten something really important- like his grandson. When he forgets who Chersheng is and tells him he does not have a grandson, Chersheng is crushed. There is good information in this book about dealing with Alzheimer's and what to expect. Chersheng's mother explains to him in a way he can understand what is happening to his beloved grandfather. She also is able to share with him the story cloth Grandfather made that illustrates the events in his life. Chersheng truly cherishes this gift and then begins to draw his own story cloth. When Chersheng shares his drawing with Grandfather the two connect again as Grandfather is able to remember bits of his past.
I can see so many uses for this book - as a look at a different culture. There is information about story cloths and the Hmong culture. This is also a great resource for students who may have family members suffering from Alzheimers disease. And, the illustrations in this book are beautiful. This could also be used as a springboard to create your own story cloth about your life or that of your family. A wonderful addition to a school or public library.