Mama's Chickens

A book about dementia that uses backyard chickens to give a child's-eye view of the disease. Mama doesn't want chickens, but as her dementia symptoms increase, she grows to love them. The children see that she doesn't always act like her old self, which upsets them and the chickens. However, Mama always finds ways to show them how much they are wanted and loved. The book is aimed at children and aims to initiate open and honest communication about dementia and provide love and support for children whose parents suffer from it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2023
Publisher: Exisle Publishing

A captivating and visually stunning book, "Mama Didn't Want Chickens," offers a poignant child's-eye perspective on the onset of early-onset dementia. Through the story of a family with backyard chickens, the author delves into the experiences of a mother battling the cognitive challenges of dementia. Despite initial resistance, the mother's bond with the chickens grows stronger as her symptoms worsen, providing solace and a sense of belonging.

The children in the story witness their mother's gradual transformation, which can be both distressing and confusing. They struggle to understand why she doesn't always act like her old self and feel upset by this change. However, their mother finds creative ways to express her love and affection, demonstrating the unwavering support and understanding she offers her children.

The author, drawing on her own personal experience with early-onset dementia, has crafted an entirely age-appropriate narrative that resonates with children. The endearing characters of the chickens add a relatable dimension to the story, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. By highlighting the impact of dementia on individuals of all ages, the book fosters empathy and understanding while providing valuable information about a reality that many families face.

Dementia, often associated with older individuals, extends beyond its traditional perception. People with early-onset dementia, like the mother in the story, may experience memory loss, difficulty with thinking and reasoning, confusion, and changes in behavior and personality. Michelle Worthington, the author, has firsthand knowledge of these symptoms due to her diagnosis of Progressive Nonfluent Aphasia, a form of dementia.

Worthington's book serves as a powerful tool for initiating open and honest communication about dementia. It aims to educate children about the potential manifestations of the condition and help parents recognize the symptoms in their loved ones. By providing a compassionate and supportive framework, the book empowers parents to offer their children love and understanding during this challenging time.

Worthington's ultimate goal is to reach parents worldwide and provide them with the tools they need to support their children during the onset of dementia. She hopes that her book will initiate a global conversation about dementia, promoting awareness and understanding while fostering a community of support for families affected by this condition.

In conclusion, "Mama Didn't Want Chickens" is a beautifully illustrated book that offers a unique and compassionate perspective on the impact of early-onset dementia. Through the story of a mother and her backyard chickens, the author fosters empathy, understanding, and support for children navigating this challenging life experience. By providing valuable information and initiating open communication, the book empowers parents to be their children's guiding lights, offering love and understanding in the face of adversity.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 252 x 263 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781922539458