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.
Adrienne Gear - Reading Power Ltd. 