Most children at some stage of their lives lose a close family member or friend. This story tells a child's experience of a much-loved grandfather getting old, becoming unwell, and dying.
The story also shows that people celebrate death in different ways. The family's response to the death of their much-loved grandfather reflects the multi-cultural make-up of New Zealand. Pakeha (European), Maori and Pacific Island traditions and beliefs are interwoven into the family's response. The story creates an opportunity for adults and children to talk and think about death.