Nana Nana

$19.99
Nana Nana is a touching multigenerational story that helps children navigate the emotional journey of having a loved one with dementia. In his brilliant debut, Nate Bertone shares the tender bond between a boy and his grandmother as they both face the changes brought on by her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. At first, Nana simply forgets small things—song lyrics, birthdays, even Nate’s name. But as her memory fades and her personality shifts, Nate learns to meet her where she is, showing patience, kindness, and an open heart. With emotive illustrations by James Claridades, this book encourages children to ask questions, express big feelings, and find comfort in love that never fades. Told with warmth and optimism, Nana Nana offers a gentle, powerful resource for families navigating dementia—proving that, even in the face of loss, connection and compassion remain.
Nana Nana is a touching multigenerational story that helps children navigate the emotional journey of having a loved one with dementia. In his brilliant debut, Nate Bertone shares the tender bond between a boy and his grandmother as they both face the changes brought on by her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. At first, Nana simply forgets small things—song lyrics, birthdays, even Nate’s name. But as her memory fades and her personality shifts, Nate learns to meet her where she is, showing patience, kindness, and an open heart. With emotive illustrations by James Claridades, this book encourages children to ask questions, express big feelings, and find comfort in love that never fades. Told with warmth and optimism, Nana Nana offers a gentle, powerful resource for families navigating dementia—proving that, even in the face of loss, connection and compassion remain.

  • Hardcover, 11x8.6, 1lb, 50 pages

  • "With humor and heart, Nate Bertone delicately navigates the challenges of Alzheimer's, teaching children that love and laughter endure, even in life’s most challenging circumstances." - Seth and Lauren Rogen, Founders of Hilarity for Charity

    "As someone who lost my beloved Grandmother to Alzheimer’s‚ I was warmed to the core by Nate’s loving tribute to his Nana. Being able to have a conversation about Alzheimer’s in this form‚ with children‚ is such a blessing! How wonderful to be able to teach that even though our loved ones may not remember the times we’ve had‚ we can remember for them.” -Wayne Brady, Emmy award winning actor, Grammy nominated singer, writer, producer

    "To those of us who have experienced the sadness caused by Alzheimer’s, this book is so special. Because of Nate’s talent and dedication, I'm confident that this witty and heart-felt work of art will bless, comfort, and educate many young lives." - Jay Allen, Country artist, songwriter and philanthropist

    "The book [Nana Nana] skillfully blends hard facts and feelings, mentioning Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, such as mood swings, while also demonstrating Nate’s patience and adoration. A bittersweet tale for kids that deftly illustrates the conflicting emotions that can occur when a loved one is struggling with dementia." - Kirkus Reviews

    A comforting multigenerational story and powerful resource for children with a loved one diagnosed with Dementia—tackling big feelings and encouraging openness, compassion, and understanding.

    Nana Nana illustrates the sweet relationship between a boy and his beloved grandmother as they both grapple with changes associated with her Alzheimer’s diagnosis and its painful, winding path. In his brilliant debut title, author Nate Bertone captures the experience of dementia told from a child's perspective.

    Initially, Nana is having a hard time doing the things she and Nate used to enjoy together. She has started to forget the words to her favorite songs, Nate's birthday, and even his name. But as the book progresses, Nana's memory deteriorates even more, and her symptoms escalate to include changes in personality and behavior.

    The love bleeds off the page in the incredibly emotive illustrations by James Claridades. Nana Nana gives children a better understanding of Alzheimer’s and how to handle the changes in their loved ones. The conversation between Nate and Nana flows so beautifully and organically, and the tone is optimistic. Nate consistently exhibits incredible compassion for his Nana. He is patient with her, and he is kind. This book begs the question, “What happens if we just play along like children do?"

    Nate’s innocent but perceptive questions show children that it’s OK to ask questions and have big feelings. It's okay to notice changes in someone, and it’s OK to be sad.

    Nana Nana shines a unique and compassionate light upon a subject that can oftentimes be uncomfortable or scary for children. The conversational journey between Nate and his Nana is warm, tangible, and approachable, but the impact is profound. Their story allows for a greater understanding of such a confusing and heart-wrenching disease—opening the door for further conversation and ultimately proving that love always remains.

    About the Author
    Nate Bertone is an internationally acclaimed designer, director, writer, and Broadway producer. Though his work has been seen on stages across the globe, this is his debut children’s book. While watching his Nana battle Alzheimer’s disease, Nate became passionate about prevention, care, and support for those with and affected by the disease. He has since written three pieces where Alzheimer’s plays a key role –– a musical, Letters From War, a play, The SeaView Nursing Home for the Newly Deceased, and his debut children’s book, Nana Nana. He is an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University and was a Dean's Scholar at Central Saint Martins, London. Nate is a member of The Dramatists Guild and USA829. For more information, please visit: @natebertone, @alzheimerschildrensbook, natebertone.com and alzheimerschildrensbook.com.

    James Claridades' illustration work has been featured in many stories for Farfaria children’s book app. James’ work has become well known through social media, where he shares his love for musical theatre, recreating scenes of Broadway musicals through vibrant illustrations. His work has been featured at an Anniversary exhibit for Broadway’s Wicked at The Gershwin Theater in New York City, and Nana Nana marks his debut publication in the United States. He is based in the Philippines.