The Memory Key

Lily is very close to her grandfather but, unfortunately, he suffers from Alzheimer’s and more and more of his memory is slipping away each day. As he describes it, he is “only half a book” now, the missing pages representing the memories of his earlier years as a Hungarian refugee who moved to London.  

When Lily discovers a long-lost model train, it leads her and her grandfather on an adventure through time as they revisit memories from his past. She helps him recall cherished moments as well as more sinister memories, including the loss of his sister during a harrowing escape from Hungary amid military occupation.

By sharing these memories, they both find solace in the face of his challenging battle with memory loss. 

This is a very tender and emotive graphic novel from the author/illustrator of A Tricky Kind of Magic. Lily’s struggles with the gradual deterioration of her grandfather may ring true with many children’s experiences of older loved ones but, while it covers serious themes, the overall tone is hopeful and celebrates memories, shared stories and empathy.

An incredibly poignant read which provides a much-needed perspective into an issue which may affect many families.