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The memory cage

Every family has its secrets ... ours more than most.

Buch

Eastham, Ruth (Verfasser/-in) DNB

Scholastic

London

2011

227 S.

978-1-4071-2052-2

Jugoslawienkrieg
Vergangsenheitsbewältigung
Familiengeschichte

The Memory Cage is a story about a granddad who fears loosing his memories over an illness and his grandson who cannot forget his past, although it's the only thing he wishes for.##This novel is told from Alex' point of view, an ordinary teenager from the outside, that appears to be a troubled child on the inside. Being subject to terrifying memories of his past and psychical games in the present, he still appears very mature and like a grown- up, especially when it comes to protecting his grandad. Alex is very sensitive, caring and responsible always trying to help him.##I do not read many Middle Grade novels, because I always tend miss a connection to the main protagonist, that is much younger than I am, but Alex made me immediately like him. He's the underdog and I care for him.##Alex and his grandfather share a very intimate relationship. And when his parents want to put grandpa in an old peoples' home because his Alzheimer's is getting worse each day, Alex is determined to find a way to scatter their plans and bring back his grandfather's memory not knowing what hidden secrets he might come across.##On their journey, willing or unwilling, to the past Alex and his grandfather ,William Smith have their funny and sad moments. Their relationship warms my heart, because it never appears constructed, but always very realistic. Grandad has his secrets and just as Alex I couldn't wait to reveal them.##I hadn't imagined William's Alzheimer's to be too hard to read about, as I haven't come in contact with such an illness before, but at some point when he keeps forgetting major things and even big parts of his daily life I became extremely sad, unterstanding the terrible impact of such an illness.#Alzheimer's is presented in an informative way, giving for MG appropriate and understandable basic information about the illness.##In addition it also addresses the topic of war, making it accessible with a certain example, discussions and conflict potential within the Smith family.##This novel is such a precious debut because it deals with most important and high sensitive topics that must affect one. The Memory Cage encourages young teens to think about what's important in life, to be an active part in political debates and generational exchanges.##THE VERDICT##I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Memory Cage, it made me smile and frown, hope and fear and on some pages I couldn't stop the tears from rolling down my face.#This novel has feeling and personality and is not only a recommendable read for Middle Grade students, but for all age groups.