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Out of sight, not out of mind

Updated: Apr 2

Every now and then I come across a picture book that makes my emotions bubble up inside and salty droplets collect in my eyelids before spilling over the edges, down my cheeks! This is one of those! And I'm certain that for any reader who has a special someone who is far away or who has died, that this book will conjure up the same beautiful feelings. For the memories of those we love dearly remain entrenched in our hearts long after they are gone.


Grandad's Island by Benji Davies is an uplifting story of the bond between a child and his grandfather and the comforting notion that no matter how far away they end up, the memories they have shared together will always keep them close. This book is truly magnificent! In one sense, its a riveting adventure story, complete with a magic metal door and a large, booming ship... with Grandad guiding his grandson, Syd, to a vibrant tropical island. In another sense, its a moving tale, where the author navigates with tenderness, the unbreakable bond between two people who love each other, but who, for some reason, can't stay together.


Syd, lives next door to Grandad. One day he pops over for a visit, only to find Grandad in an unusual place, the attic. After showing Syd around, Grandad reveals a big metal door. Together they step through the door onto a tall ship and set sail. Grandad steers the ship over rolling waves until they make landfall. A tropical island adventure awaits. They explore the island paradise and set up a shelter in the cool breeze. Syd never wants to leave! In this moment, Grandad confesses that he has decided to stay. Its time to part ways... Syd hugs Grandad, tells him he'll miss him very much and sets sail on the bumpy seas back home. Things are different at Grandad's house when he returns but a timely visit from a jungle friend reassures Syd that even though Grandad is gone, he lives on in our memories.


This is the second award-winning book, by the talented Benji Davies. The first was The Storm Whale which is another must-read! Benji's narrative is simple yet moving. He gives the reader just enough to make their own inferences without spelling it out explicitly. His illustrations complement the story beautifully - they are bright and colourful, you can see why Syd never wanted to leave the magical island! The illustrations also match the mood of the book. You see the bright colours of the island when the mood is fun and happy. Then the colours darken as the mood is more solemn, when Syd has said goodbye to Grandad and is negotiating the rough waves in sea.


Title: Grandad's Island

Author & Illustrator: Benji Davies


What's to LOVE about this book:

  • The book deals with loss in a subtle but authentic way. There is no mention of death, but when it becomes relevant to your child, this book will be comforting and relatable.

  • In parts, the author is deliberately vague about his intended meaning leading the reader to make their own inferences about death, heaven, and life after loss. It presents the ideal conversation starter for anyone who has lost or is missing a loved one.

  • For those kids who haven't yet experienced loss in some form, they can simply enjoy Syd and Grandad's wild adventure - I mean what kid doesn't love steering a ship to a tropical island with their favourite person!

  • The vibrant imagery adds layers to the otherwise simple narrative.


Favourite quote:

""Syd, there's something I've been meaning to tell you," said Grandad. "You see...I'm thinking of staying"

"Oh" said Syd. "But won't you be lonely?"

"No... no, I don't think I will," said Grandad smiling."


Messages:

  • No matter the physical distance, those who we love and adore will live on in our hearts through our memories.

  • Some things, like love, will never change, even through loss.

  • Life can be hard without the people we love by our sides, but we are stronger and braver than we think.


If this book resonates with you, here is a link to buy it:

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