The Hartage Foundation Launches a New Children’s Book to Help Families Talk About Alzheimer’s

ORLANDO, FL., When Alzheimer’s enters a family, adults often move quickly to doctor visits, care decisions, and daily support. Yet one difficult conversation is often delayed: how to explain memory loss to a child.

Author and professional guardian Homer L. Hartage is helping families approach that moment with his new picture book, The Memory Box and Charlotte’s Big Surprise. The book gives parents, grandparents, caregivers, and educators a warm and practical way to talk with children about Alzheimer’s, dementia, and memory changes.

The book recently received attention from Kirkus Reviews, which described it as “a sensitive and educational picture book” and said it “ultimately succeeds as a useful and compassionate explanation of Alzheimer’s for young readers.” The review also pointed to a common family challenge: many children are not prepared when someone they love begins to change because of memory loss.

Hartage wrote the book to meet that need directly.

“Most parents are not trying to hide the truth from their children,” said Hartage. “They are scared, overwhelmed, and unsure how much to say. They want to protect their child, but silence can create more confusion. This story gives families a safe place to begin.”

In The Memory Box and Charlotte’s Big Surprise, young readers follow Charlotte as she begins to notice changes in someone she loves. Instead of leaving children to guess what is happening, the story uses clear language, emotional reassurance, and a simple, hands-on activity to help them understand memory loss in a calm, caring way.

At the heart of the book is the Memory Box, an activity families can use to collect photos, keepsakes, stories, and familiar objects. The activity encourages children to stay connected with loved ones while giving adults a practical tool for conversation.

The story also includes a tender musical moment that shows how love, emotion, and familiar songs can still reach someone living with dementia. The book has been licensed to include lyrics from the American classic “Summertime,” with music and lyrics by George Gershwin, DuBose Heyward, Dorothy Heyward, and Ira Gershwin, and is licensed by Alfred Music.

“This licensing holds special meaning for the story,” said Hartage. “Music often reaches places words cannot. For many families living with Alzheimer’s, a song can bring comfort, recognition, and connection, even when memory begins to fade.”

Kirkus Reviews also noted the book’s heartwarming use of music, describing it as “a sweet and heartwarming moment… showcasing how the memories of those with dementia can be triggered by music.”

For Hartage, the purpose of the book is simple: help families stop avoiding the conversation and start it with care.

“This book gives families a starting point,” Hartage added. “It helps remove the fear of saying the wrong thing. Children do not need every medical detail. They need honesty, comfort, and a way to stay close to the people they love.”

Upcoming Orlando Launch Events

Book Launch Reception

Friday, June 5, 2026

Women’s History & Cultural Center

Orlando, Florida

Youth & Educator Creative Workshop
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Featuring hands-on Memory Box activities and guided discussion