To mark Dementia Action Week (15 – 21 May) and the release of the paperback, Will Poulter, star of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy 3, will show his support for dementia research by narrating Elmer and the Gift, the final book in the popular series written and illustrated by the late David McKee.
The reading marks a collaboration between Alzheimer’s Research UK, the UK’s leading dementia research charity, and Andersen Press, to celebrate the 30th and last book in the hugely popular Elmer the Elephant series, written and illustrated by McKee, who passed away last year. The heartwarming tale focuses on memory loss, as Elmer tries to help his Aunt Zelda remember the gift she has for him.
Released earlier this month, the paperback book includes special notes in the back of the book, opening up a way to talk to children about dementia.
Will’s narration of the book, found here, helps to raise an issue many families are facing today – what it means when a loved one has dementia. After narrating the book, Will takes a moment to explain what dementia is and what someone who has dementia could be experiencing.
Alzheimer’s Research UK is committed to changing the lives of everyone affected by dementia. Without action, one in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime, and sadly there are currently no treatments available in the UK today to slow the diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, that cause it. The charity funds scientific research to find a cure for the diseases that cause dementia.
Will Poulter, Hollywood actor and Alzheimer’s Research UK supporter, said:
“Sadly, thousands of families are impacted by dementia every day and talking about it at any age is incredibly difficult. I loved reading Elmer and the Gift in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK and I hope it will help adults start these important conversations with little ones.”
Hilary Evans, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Research UK said:
“We are thrilled to share Will Poulter’s beautiful reading of Elmer and the Gift in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK. This is an important story with family, love, kindness, and patience at its heart. Aunt Zelda’s story will be familiar to many families impacted by dementia, and we hope Will’s reading inspires open talks about the condition between adults and children.
“Alzheimer’s Research UK is so grateful to Will for bringing Elmer and Aunt Zelda to life in this reading, and to Andersen Press for partnering with us on this special book.”
Paul Black, PR and Brand Director at Andersen Press said:
“We knew when we first saw David McKee’s final Elmer book that we had something special, and it was an opportunity to bring Elmer’s warmth and inclusivity to the many families out there who may be impacted by dementia. Partnering with Alzheimer’s Research UK, and with Will Poulter’s gorgeous reading, we hope Elmer’s message of kindness can help in those families’ time of need and open up a conversation between all ages.”
Elmer and the Gift is available to buy in all good bookshops. For more child-friendly dementia information, or to watch Will Poulter read the story, visit our website.
