Hello Lovely Substackers!
I hope you’ve all had a good week!
Here’s another instalment of Emma Reads and this time with a book I’ve had on my shelf for 10 years. It’s beautiful. ‘My Grandpa’ by Marta Altes.
The book’s sensitively approached yet powerful execution regarding its subject matter is focused wholly on the main characters. Marta’s use of negative space ensures they visually remain central to the narrative throughout. The way Altes has composed the images is a great example of less is more. Using props to elevate a scene/emotion but not to distract from the central theme. The book is about memory loss. Grandpa’s memory is in decline and his little grandchild experiences some of his less lucid moments.
This book shows his condition in a sensitive and warm light, void of pity and full of love. Below the video is a categorical breakdown of the book into sections exploring why it works so wonderfully. In the meantime, pop the kettle on, make yourself comfy and enjoy someone reading to you. We’re never too old to be read a story.