In this episode we're sharing the highlights from our recent interview with Carol Steinberg, whose children’s book, Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly, adds a much-needed resource for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
A Personal Story Sparked by Loss
Carol’s journey began more than 25 years ago, during her own father’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. She originally wrote the book as part of her grieving process, but it wasn’t until she’d spent years working at both local and national Alzheimer’s organizations that the story truly found its shape. The finished book beautifully balances respect, understanding, and connection for readers young and old.
Empowering Children & Families
One thing that sets Carol’s children’s book apart is its focus on empathy, understanding, and practical intergenerational activities that help children stay connected with loved ones living with dementia. As Carol says, “We need to bust the stigmas. We need the world to know that people with dementia are still people. They're still your loved ones. They may act differently—and I hope I show that in the book.”
Although written for children (ages 5 to 9, but suitable for older readers too!), this book is just as impactful for adults. As Vicki Tapia, AlzAuthors acquisitions editor, noted, the story “helps explain and cope with the changes that are happening [to a loved one].” Plus, the activities at the end offer concrete, research-backed ways that families can nurture connection.
Recommended by the Experts
Don’t just take our word for it—Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly comes with glowing endorsements from field leaders like Teepa Snow, Dr. Daniel Potts, and people living with dementia, who praise its realism, sensitivity, and stigma-busting power.
Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, parent, or grandparent, Carol’s book is a gentle guide to fostering compassion, understanding, and lasting memories—no matter where you or your loved one are on the dementia journey.
Purchase “Come Grandpa Meow, Let's Fly"
Read Carol's AlzAuthors blog post
Learn about the Moderators
AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.
Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.
We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization totally reliant on donations to do what we do. Your generosity will help cover our many operating costs, which include website hosting and maintenance fees, service charges to keep things running smoothly, and marketing expenses to promote our authors, expand our content, improve our reach, and more. Our ongoing work supports our mission to lift the silence and stigma of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To sustain our efforts please donate here.
Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.
We are a Whole Care Network Featured Podcast
Proud to be on The Health Podcast Network
Find us on The World Podcast Network and babyboomer.org
Want to be on the podcast? Here’s what you need to know
We’ve got merch! Shop our Store