Review: A Lemon For Safiya

When Safiya spots an old lady sitting on the kerb, she feels worried for her. Her parents sense something is amiss as well.

The family are quick to see that the old lady is confused, also that she has no English, and it is apparent by her clothing she's from elsewhere, at least originally.

Luckily, Safiya's Mama speaks Arabic and through some gentle conversation, in which the old lady recalls things of the past, they begin to get some sense of her but still not where she lives.

It is not until she is in their car, that Safiya notices her bracelet - which has emergency details engraved.

At last, they are able to find where Maryam lives. Her street is busy with her family going here, there and everywhere looking for her. She had wandered off and become disoriented.

As someone who has watched her mother slowly slip away into dementia, and to whom this exact scenario happened, I know it is all too frightening an experience.

Thankfully, Maryam was found by caring people, who were not only willing to help but able to speak her language to put her at ease. How hard it must be for someone to be doubly isolated, firstly, by their confusion and, secondly, a language barrier.

There will be children for whom this will resonate, particularly those connected with older relatives but even for those without a personal experience, this is a valuable insight into a disease that is gaining more and more awareness, and, sadly, it seems is becoming more prevalent. The text is relatively simple but flows with both the English and the Arabic, and Maryam's rich and warm life is revealed in that simplicity through remembrances. The illustrations, and particularly the facial expressions, exude a real warmth, and a sense of safety.

This book wins points for me on several counts. It deals with a disease with which I have personal connection and which, I believe, is important for all Australians to be more cognizant. It features Australians of diversity, including a non-English speaking character and, along with that, includes the use of Arabic words. For children who speak this, it will give them a special connection but for others unfamiliar with the language, it provides a good exposure and a chance to learn some of the words used.

Lastly, it has a wonderful sense of care and community. This, in my opinion, is something we began to see growing apace during the initial 'covid' times but which seems to have fallen by the wayside. I think we could all use some community warmth and support. I give this a 5 🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋rating. Teaching notes available.

• Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians. Provisional data suggests dementia will soon be the leading cause of death.*
• Dementia is the leading cause of death for Australian women.
• In 2025 there are an estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia. Without a significant intervention, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase to an estimated 812,500 by 2054.
• In 2025 there are an estimated 29,000 people living with younger onset dementia, expected to increase to an estimated 41,000 people by 2054. This can include people in their 30s, 40s and 50s.
• An estimated 1.7 million people in Australia are involved in the care of someone living with dementia. 
• 2 in 3 people with dementia are thought to be living in the community.
• 54% of people living in permanent residential aged care have dementia. 

*Dementia Australia 2025

Title: A Lemon For Safiya
Author: Jemima Shafei-Ongu
Illustrator: Nisaluk Chantanakom
Publisher: Hachette Australia. Imprint; Lothian Children’s Books. $26.99
Date of Publication: May 2025
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780734422224
For ages: 4+

Type: Picture Book