Class 7 Pupil Becomes Published Illustrator
February 27 2024
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First children’s graphic novel about dementia features co-writing and illustrations by pupil Gracie Irvine, aged 13. Read on below.
“My Wonky Brain” is the first children’s novel about dementia, written and illustrated by an intergenerational group of 10+ people, aged between 12 & 70, including Class 7 pupil, Gracie Irvine. It is inspired by the dementia journey of Willy Gilder (illustrated on the front cover).
The project was led by Valeria Lembo from the University of Edinburgh, who worked with a group of school children and adults, including editor and author Alex Howard Gerald King.
Talking about the production of the first children’s graphic novel aimed at young people, Willy said:
We got the group to interview me, and draw pictures from my life that Alex has assembled into text and illustrations.”
The book has a distinct purpose: to dispel myths and stigma that surrounds a diagnosis of dementia. Some of the adults who collaborated on the project are living with an early onset diagnosis.
Illustrations above by Gracie Irvine, who co-authored My Wonky Brain.
There are many misconceptions about living with dementia and Bold want to change that. My Wonky Brain is their mini-commission in partnership with Capital Theatres.
Illustrations above by Gracie Irvine, who co-authored My Wonky Brain.
There are many misconceptions about living with dementia and Bold want to change that. My Wonky Brain is their mini-commission in partnership with Capital Theatres.
