This is a parable cum story that makes it clear that Grandad has died, but in a way that while sad, is acceptable. Syd and his Grandad are very close, in fact, they live just behind one another, and Syd can go to Grandad's house any time he wants. One day when he goes, Grandad wants to show him something and invites him to come up to the attic. It's an amazing place, with lots of bits and pieces from Grandad's life as a sailor, and when Syd is invited to open a big metal door, he finds himself with Grandad on the deck of a big ship. Together they sail off on an adventure and finally reach a wonderfully exotic island with lots of birds and animals and even a friendly gorilla. Together they make a shelter, and they have a lovely time exploring the island. When it is time to go home, Grandad says that he is '...thinking of staying.' Syd is concerned he will be lonely, but when Grandad points out that all their animal and bird friends are there, he accepts the situation and sails for home after saying a sad good-bye. 'He would miss him very much.' The journey seems long, but Syd sails the ship well, and the next day when he goes to Grandad's house, he finds the big metal door isn't there any more, and that while the house is the same, Grandad isn't. A toucan flies to the window and leaves a letter for Syd. Inside is a picture drawn by Grandad of himself and their gorilla friend. This isn't an unhappy story, but it is a gentle representation of how it feels when someone important leaves life for good. The pictures, so full of life on the island, the colours of the foliage and the creatures surrounding them, are a wonderful way of thinking about life after death for those we love - comfortable, beautiful and happy.