I really enjoyed this book for multiple reasons. First, the book pushes readers to think about tough issues like how Jake's grandfather has Alzheimers. For example the book starts off with 3 boys seeing an old man by the dumpster who looks like he might jump in. 2 of the boys shout at the man making fun of him while the other boy stays silent. The boys soon realize this man isn't right in the head and the boy that said nothing feels shameful because the old man is his grandfather who has Alzheimers. I think that this makes readers think about how they should treat others because you never know what is going on with them.
Another reason I like this book is because of the pace of the plot. The book starts with Jake in 3rd grade and leads all the way up to his 8th grade graduation. The reader can really see and understand how Jake feels as he sees his grandfathers memory slip away. For example, when he was young Jake's grandfather almost never forgot who Jake was. But as time progresses Jake becomes surprised if his grandfather actually recognizes him.
The message of the story is to not take loved ones for granted. Jake realizes to not be embarrassed of his grandfather and some of the actions he does become of Alzheimers. Jake learns how to take care of his grandfather and tries to remember the good times they had together. ( )