Marika and the Auction is Book 1 in the Storybooks for Seniors series.
Storybooks for Seniors
With simple adventures and gorgeous illustrations, Storybooks for Seniors are for people at various stages of dementia who can no longer follow more complicated stories.
They amuse. They trigger memories. They help start conversations.
They are perfect for visitors to read aloud, whether those visitors are
adult children or young grandchildren.
Picture books written especially for people with dementia
Storybooks for seniors are different than children's picture books
In children's picture books, children are the main characters. Stuff that is important to kids drives the plot: bath time negotiations, baby brothers, new pets, etc.
In Storybooks for Seniors, a lively adult is the main character and children are the supporting cast.
These stories evoke funny, relatable events that seniors might have experienced when they were young parents.
Story settings
The stories take place in the 1970s, when today's seniors were vibrant. Details of the era are sprinkled throughout, to spark memories or inspire chit-chat.
Book titles
Books 1 to 3 feature the adventures of Marika, a resourceful, loyal and energetic mother raising five rambunctious children.
The Marika Book Series
Marika and the Auction
Storybooks for Seniors, Book 1:
Marika wants her children to learn fine table manners and the art of grown-up conversation but must challenge a
shady-looking grouch to collect everything she needs for success.
Available April 30, 2026
Marika and the Golf Balls
Storybooks for Seniors, Book 2: Marika knows that when her children get very, very quiet she must investigate very, very thoroughly. But today, three of them aren't just suspiciously silent, they're missing!
Coming soon
Marika and the Moose
Storybooks for Seniors, Book 3:
Marika is anxiously driving all five children -- and a tent-trailer she can't reverse -- back to the city for the first day of school. But camping country's wildlife has lessons to teach her.
Coming soon
Press & media
Excerpt of Marika and the Auction with an introduction by the author that explains the inspiration for Storybooks for Seniors and how these books can help people with dementia.
A podcast chat with author Helen Metella about the unexpected lessons of dementia. Conversation about the inspiration for writing Marika and the Auction starts at: 41:50
Helen Metella shares a bunch of practical tips for navigating dementia with a loved one.
Upcoming Events
Contact
For interviews with the author, for live readings at seniors care homes and conferences, or to order multiple books at once, please contact:
info@storybooksforseniors.com