Children’s mystery story explores dementia through fiction

A new detective novel uses mystery-solving to help children understand dementia through the adventures of twelve-year-old sleuth Scarlett Buckling.

Scarlett Buckling and the Case of the Missing Pictures follows a young detective whose grandmother goes missing while searching for lost photographs, introducing memory loss through an age-appropriate mystery.

Author Mario Ambrosi based the story on real experiences shared by families, care professionals and people living with dementia. The book was developed with input from charity, Dementia UK.

The plot centres on Scarlett and her friend Bournemouth as they piece together clues about her grandmother’s fading memory. It highlights how fragments of personal history can help families connect with loved ones living with dementia.

“I wrote Scarlett for a couple of reasons,” said Ambrosi. “My uncle lived with dementia, and I know it affects so many families, but it can be really difficult to talk about. I have two kids of my own and wanted to help them understand what was happening and feel comfortable asking questions.”

Ambrosi said detective work provided a natural way to tell the story.

“I’ve always been amazed at how key facts about someone’s life can be the clues that help care professionals provide the best care possible. A detective story seemed the obvious way to talk about it.

“I hope the book may even encourage some young people to consider a career working in care.”

Lord Kenneth Baker, former education secretary and chair of the 2001 Booker Prize, praised the book’s approach.

He said: “I loved meeting the dementia detectives Scarlett and Bournemouth. It is important children learn about dementia, and this sensitive story will help children and adults alike.”

The book aims to help children and their families talk about memory loss in a relatable way.

By using a detective story to frame complex emotional topics, it fosters understanding and empathy among young readers.