Top 10 Tuesday – New Books for Autism Month

April is National Austism Month – a time to raise awareness about autism and promote inclusion and connectedness for people with autism. And what better way to help raise awareness and empathy in school communities than by sharing some great books with your students and launching those important classroom discussions?

There are so MANY books to choose from it was hard to narrow it down! Here are 10 (okay, 13) of my favorite new (and some older) books that offer a window into the experience of autism:

Remarkable Remy – Melanie Nathaniel

This is a warm, optimistic story that introduces an autistic character to younger readers. Remi is autisitc and her good friend shares with readers all the “remarkable” ways Remi is unique and has different ways of processing, thinking, and seeing the world. Not only does the book celebrate how great the autistic character is, but it also teaches what it is like to be a friend to someone with autism. 

Benji, The Bad Day, And Me – Sally J. Pla

Great story about two brothers, one autistic, who comfort each other after a tough day at school. Lots of empathy and understanding wrapped up in this one. After Sammy has a bad day at school, he comes home to find his brother, Benji, also having a bad day. The difference is, Benji has a special play box he can go to when he’s having a bad day, but Sammy doesn’t. Until Benji has an idea that just might help his brother. I love how the character of Benji just happens to have autism, but it’s never presented as a problem, it’s just how Benji is.

“Wiggles,” “Stomps,” And “Squeezes” – Calming My Jeeters At School – Lindsey Rowe Parker

This book is a new addition to the Wiggles, Stomps and Squeezes series. Told from a child’s persepctive, it is a story about sensory differences and how some children experience their world. Great language in this book that will help you start useful conversations about the “jitters” some kids experience at school and how to be thoughtful and compassionate and respond to them appropriately when they need to get their jitters out.

Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap NT is OK! – Clay Morton & Gail Morton

This is a great take an autism, told from an autistic character’s POV. He talks about how different his NT (neurotypical) friend is – he is rarely on time, he looks you right in the eye, and he likes hanging out in groups – but that’s okay! I really liked how the author changed the perspective of what mainstream culture considers “normal” in a respectful way.

A Day With No Words – Tiffany Hammond

A must-read for every classroom and library, this book invites readers into the life of an autism family who communicates just as the child does, without spoken language. I remember being so moved when I first read this book. There is so much love and joy in the story while it is also an important lesson in advocating for people with disabilities.

Too Sticky! – Sensory Issues with Autism – Jen Malia

Holly is worried about making slime at school. Will it be too sticky for her? How can she find a way to do the science she loves without having to touch something that makes her squirm? Based on the experieces of the author and her daughter, this story helps readers gain more understanding about sensory issues some people on the autism spectrum experience.

Looking After Louis – Lesley Ely

Louis is the new boy at the female narrator’s school. She describes with curiosity how Louis is ‘not quite like the rest of us’, commenting on his frequent repetition of other people’s words and his lack of social interaction with other students. Eventually, the other children in the class begin to form a postive connection with Louis through a game of football (soccer). I like how the author includes specific characteristics of autism without explicitly saying this was why Louis was different.  A gentle introduction to autism for younger children.

Ways To Play – Lyn Miller-Lachmann

Riley, who is neurodivergent, enjoys playing with all of his toys, stuffed animals, dolls, and bits of newspaper, but his bossy cousin says he is not playing the “right way”. This is very simple story about imaginative play that is both validating and sweet, while also touching on how it hurts to have people judge the way you play. The author AND illustrator are both autistic.

Gina Kaminski Saves The Wolf – Craig Barr-Green

This is an ADORABLE retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, featuring an autistic main character named Gina. The book is told from Gina’s POV who uses emojis to help her show her emotions. During reading time, Gina feels strongly that the story of Little Red Riding Hood is WRONG and decides to change the outcome. She clearly explains the three mistakes she sees and proceeds to correct them. Such an engaging story that showcases a great representation of a child on the autistic spectrum. LOVE this one!

Jeffrey Loves Blue – By Loretta Garbutt

Jeffrey, a child on the spectrum, LOVES the colour blue and he won’t ever stray from it. But a classmate (narrator) shares their perspective and describes him ALWAYS painting with blue paint and not sharing the color with anyone else. The story walks through Jeffrey deciding if he can be brave and paint with another color. I like how focus of the story is not about getting rid of Jeffrey’s fixation but more about widening his perspective to help a friend. Great book to help build empathy from all perspectives. Includes discussion questions at the back.

Henry And The Something New – Jenn Bailey

A touching book about Henry, who has autism, and his fears about his class field trip to the museum. This is the third book in this beginning chapter series about embracing new experiences, starring a sweet and sensitive child on the autism spectrum. Highly recommend the other two books, as well: A Friend for Henry and Henry, Like Always

My Brother Charlie – Holly Robinson Peete & Ryan Elizabeth Peete

Amazing book that explains how it feels to be the twin sister of an autistic boy. Such a great example of a family that manages life and love in a sometimes challenging situation. Lots of great points could be used in discussion with an elementary class. Colorful and touching illustrations. Recommended for grade 2 and up.

Too Much! An Overwhelming Day – Jolene Gutierrez

A reassuring rhyming picture book about sensory overload and what you can do when everything is too much. Such an engaging story that many children will connect to. EXCELLENT backnotes with extensive information for caregivers and educators exploring sensory systems, sensory processing issues, and specific strategies to support kids with when they are overstimulated.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have found one or two new books about autism you are excited to share with your students this month! Happy reading, everyone!

Top Ten Tuesday – Favorite Books Honouring Neuro-Diversity

It matters so much that all children see themselves represented in the books they read — and that goes for neuro-diverse children, too. Over the past few years, there has been a number of incredible resources for teachers or parents who are trying to build empathy and compassion in all children. These picture books feature neurodiverse characters that help readers better understand or relate to children with autism, OCD, ADHD, and other sensory issues.

Here are some of my favorites:

Neurodiversity, What’s That? – Nadine Arthur

A simple, accessible and very positive book introducing young readers to neurodiversity. Bonus is the book is neurodivergent friendly! Large font, light-coloured background, sentences and pictures are well- spaced. Very child-friendly!

We Move Together – Kelly Fritsch

Excellent book that addresses important aspects of inclusion and equity, including the very important lesson that it’s not always simple or easy. Beautiful illustrations and ends with further explanation of each of the main point. A great launch for class discussions.

Some Brains, A Book About Celebrating Neurodiversity – Nelly Thomas

Written in rhyme, this story challenges stereotypes about kids while celebrating neurodiversity. It encourages us to all look for our strengths and to consider differences as uniquely wonderful. Written in a positive way and encourages all children to feel included and celebrated. Includes a helpful glossary.

Just Ask ! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You – Sonia Sotomayor

A great celebration of diversity to read to younger students. It clearly explains a variety of differences or abilities, then inspires discussion about each one. Love the message that being different doesn’t mean it has to be difficult and reminds us all to be kind, strong and embrace differences.

A Friend For Henry – Jenn Bailey

Henry has autism, and he’s looking for a friend in his often too-loud, too-close classroom. When he finds a classmate who listens, who shares, and who even likes things to stay in order too, it’s a heartfelt celebration of compassion and acceptance. The illustrations are beautiful. LOVE this one!

A Day With No Words – Tiffany Hammond

A must-read for every classroom and library, this book invites readers into the life of an autism family who communicates just as the child does, without spoken language. I remember being so moved when I first read this book. There is so much love and joy in the story while it is also an important lesson in advocating for people with disabilities.

My Brother Other – Meg Raby

This book is focuses on autism from a siblings perspective. Raby tells the reader about her brother, Otto, who is autistic. It’s a sweet, honest look at some of the characteristics that make kids with autism unique—like Otto’s fixation with the color yellow, for example. But by the end, readers will come to appreciate that Otto is a kid who loves to play and have fun, just like his sister.

All My Stripes – A Story for Children with Autism – Shaina Rudolph

This story depicts the daily struggles of a small zebra with autism. It encourages the reader to embrace the things that make each of us different and unique and to remember there is much more to Zane the zebra than his “autism stripe”. This book also contains notes for teachers and parents at the back.

It’s Me, Henry – Stephanie Deslauriers

This book is a GREAT depiction of children who are on the Autism spectrum, celebrating their uniqueness and special skills that they bring to a situation. Henry is autistic and his behavior can annoy his classmates. But Henry is also an expert on plants, knowing their Latin names and characteristics. On a field trip to the botanical garden, his expertise shines through. Many good themes in this beautifully illustrated story. Translated from French.

Masterpiece – Alexandra Hoffan

An inclusive story featuring Samuel, a boy on the autism spectrum who sees the world differently than his peers. When Samuel’s teacher asks his class to create a piece of art, it quickly becomes apparent that he has a beautiful, unique way of looking at the world. Lessons of empathy, understanding and acceptance are woven throughout the story. Beautiful, touching, heartfelt book.

I Talk Like A River – Jordan Scott

I loved this book when I first read it. It is a stunning, poetic description of what it’s like to experience a stutter, told with overwhelming compassion and dignity. This book is a beautiful opportunity to talk about communication differences, and the importance of having patience while friends sort out what they’re trying to say.

All Sorts – Pippa Goodhart

Such a great book for children who experience OCD. Sorting and categorizing helps some children create order and make sense of their world. But it can also be quite upsetting if things aren’t organized or ‘just right’ in their eyes. This picture books gently shows that sometimes accepting less orderly and regimented ways of doing things can make interacting with their world easier.

Talking is Not My Thing! – Rose Robbins

A simple story about a young cat who is nonverbal and her brother, who finds different ways to communicate. I liked how the thought and speech bubbles were used to distinguish between the sister’s thoughts and the brother’s verbal words. This book has a lovely message about including everyone and adapting to help others out and help them to communicate in different ways.

Don’t Hug Doug (He Doesn’t Like It) – Carrie Finison

Kids with sensory processing issues will really make connections to Doug! This book shares Doug’s perspective—a hard pass on hugs—in a positive and affirming way. Love the straightforward but friendly advice shared: if you aren’t sure whether someone wants to be touched, just ask!

(Note: This book is also good for help any young child learn about the concept of consent in an age-appropriate way.)

My Brain Is A Racecar : A Children’s Guide to a Neurodivergent Brain – Nell Harris

“Brains are just like cars, they all drive round and round a track, picking up information and then bringing it back. Some brains are Race Cars that like to drive extra fast. Sometimes though, they forget to sop and fully complete a task.” Excellent story, inspired by the Nell Harris’s daughters ADHD diagnosis, that helps explain a brain’s processes and needs.

The Alphabet War, A Story About Dyslexia – Diane Burton Robb

This book takes readers on Adam’s journey through elementary school and his battle with dyslexia. It shows the different challenges he faces in each grade and the emotional state as well. Whether the children struggle to read, or they are a natural reader, kids will gain empathy and understanding of their peers who struggle to read.

The Girl Who Thought In Pictures, The Story Of Temple Grandin – Julia Finely Mosca

This is the true story of Temple Grandin, a young girl with autism. When she was young, she related well to animals and later grew to become a well-respected scientist who helped revolutionize farms and equipment for the kinder treatment of animals. Important message in the book representing people who think differently can have a lot to offer society. Rhyming text, so very accessible for younger readers.

Louie and the Dictator – Lisa Bournelis

Highly recommend this engaging book for slightly older students that provides a real-life look into anxiety and OCD in children. Louie is a brave boy who is dealing with anxiety and OCD during the Covid Pandemic. Told in first person, readers follow Louie as he learns how to deal with his “dictator”. Such a great story to help readers gain a better understanding of how OCD can impact a child’s life.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you found a few new books to share with your students! Happy reading, everyone!

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? New books from RFTLOI conference!

It’s Monday and I’m happy to be participating in a weekly event with a community of bloggers who post reviews of books that they have read the previous week. Check out more IMWAYR posts here: Jen from Teach Mentor Texts and Kellee and Ricki from Unleashing Readers

Last week, I was presenting in Toronto at Reading For the Love Of It Conference.  This was my 4th conference and I’m always THRILLED to participate.  Not only are there amazing presenters (and many fan-girl moments for me!) but there is also a HUGE publishing display – which means (you guessed it!) BOOK BUYING!  My friend Tory McTaggart from Bound2Learn Publishing always brings the most amazing picture books!  My suitcase was FULL!   Here are the favorite finds I brought back:

Say Something! – Peter H. Reynolds

“Your voice can inspire, heal, and transform.  Your voice can change the world.  Are you ready to say something?”  Amazing book inspiring young people to stand up, share their voice, and speak up for what they you believe in.  An inspiring, non-preachy call to action by the amazing Peter. H. Reynolds

Little Brown – Marla Frazee

LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!   So much potential for discussion with this book!  Is Little Brown left alone because he is cranky or is he cranky because he is left alone?  These are just two of the many questions readers will be faced with in this book.   I love that Marla Frazee doesn’t dummy down the story, includes great “grown-up” words like “dilemma” and ends the story without an ending – inviting the reader to come up with the best solution to help Little Brown.   I can already see writing activities, skits, and tips.  Adorable illustrations.

How to Give Your Cat a Bath: In Five Easy Steps – Nicola Winstanley

A perfect addition to your instructional writing anchor book collection!  Tongue in cheek spoof on a typical instructional manual because, SURPRISE!, cats don’t like to be bathed!  Super cute and giggle-worthy!

The Girl and the Wolf – Katherena Vermette

The Girl and the Wolf is a sort of reversal of Little Red Riding Hood but with a lovely message. When a girl gets lost in the woods, a wolf guides her to finding her own way home. The wolf does not lead her home but asks the girl what she will do. When she answers, “I don’t know”, the wolf reassures her that she does, indeed, know. He encourages her to close her eyes and take a breath before trying again to determine her course of action. So many great themes in this book – problem solving, questioning, indigenous ways of knowing, mindful breathing, staying calm, nature, instincts, survival skills, inner strength. This would make an excellent addition to your indigenous book collection!

The Wall in the Middle of the Book – Jon Agee

Wow.  This book is pretty much a metaphor for what is going on in the US at the moment.   Jon Agee does an amazing job with simple text and simple illustrations to share a strong message.  A knight is convinced that the wall is protecting him from all the dangers on the “other side”.  Great split screen illustrations show just how wrong the knight is!  I think kids will enjoy shouting out the “dangers” that are happening on the left side of the wall.  VERY clever and a great book for inferring!  (can’t help but wonder if Trump would actually make any connections!!!)

What If…. Then We…. Very Short, Shorter than Ever Possibilities – Rebecca Kai Dotlich

I LOVE “One Day… The End” and use it as an anchor book for teaching beginning-middle-end in writing lessons.  So when I saw this new book by Rebecca Kai Dotlich – I knew it would be just as delightful – and I was right!   Two polar bears embark on an adventurous journey – and encounter many “what if?” moments along the way with a little courage, friendship and problem-solving sprinkled in!  I’m definitely adding this to my writing anchor books!

From Tree to Sea – Shelley Moore Thomas

This soothing, peaceful patterned book is definitely going to be added to my new writing anchor books.  What does the earth show us?  Each page in this gentle book describes what nature shows us – “Stones shows me how to be strong.  If I am kicked around sometimes, like a rock on a road, I just keep rolling along.”    Gorgeous illustrations.  A great choice for Earth Day – or any day!  This is a KEEPER!

Everything is Connected – Jason Gruhl

Well, you can’t get more of an “Adrienne” book than this one!  A beautiful book with a beautiful message – we are all connected to everything in the universe – even the blobfish!  Playful, lyrical rhyming text will make for a wonderful read-aloud.   Thought provoking and empowering.

A Friend for Henry – Jenn Bailey

A delightful story that does an excellent way of reflecting the behaviors and challenges of a child on the autism spectrum.  Henry is looking for a friend in his new class but none of them seem to be the best fit for him…. until he meets Katie.  I love that this book does not focus on having to change to fit in, but finding a friend who fits you.  Delightful illustrations.

Tomorrow Most Likely – Dave Eggers

A child imagines the many ordinary things that await him tomorrow.  Tomorrow most likely…..Packed with lovely rhymes, repetitions and a sprinkle of silly!  Another great read-aloud and anchor book for writing!   Bold and blocked illustrations.

Look – Fiona Woodcock

So clever!  This story about a brother and sister visiting the zoo is told entirely through words that have the double “oo” in them.  Each word is embedded into the bright and vibrant illustrations.  Great for emergent readers for word recognition, but could also be a great inspiration for writing one word stories!

Crab Cake – Andrea Tsurumi

I love books with many layers.   Take this one, for example.  It is the charming story of a crab who makes crab cakes, explores sea life,  and includes a messagea of sustaining our oceans, using your gifts, working together as a community, and inspiring others.  Wow! This one is well worth it’s price in crab cakes!

Thanks for stopping by!

Hope you found a book or two that caught your eye!