Books to Promote Autism Acceptance
As we get into Autism Acceptance Month, we would like to share a few books with you to help promote learning and acceptance. Our hope is that, in addition to finding these books enjoyable to read, you also gain some insight as to how autistic individuals perceive and process the world around them, and that you share these books with others to continue spreading love and acceptance in your community!
Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes
Written by Jennifer Elder, Illustrated by Marc Thomas and Jennifer Elder
Different Like Me follows eight-year-old Quinn, a young boy with Asperger's, as he talks about his autism heroes. People like Albert Einstein, Lewis Carroll, Dian Fossey, and Wassily Kandinsky, all of whom thrived in their fields, but are united by the fact that they often found it difficult to fit in, just like Quinn. This book is a wonderful resource for all children, but will children on the autism spectrum, their parents, teachers, carers and siblings. Click this link to buy the hardcover or eBook on Amazon!
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears? Dealing with Sensory Overload
Written and Illustrated by Jennifer Veenendall
Izzy is a feisty first grader whose behavior is often misunderstood as she tries to cope with sensory overload in her new surroundings. This brightly illustrated book works to explain sensory overload to children, and create an accepting environment for children with sensory processing difficulties, including children with autism. Click here to buy the book on Amazon.
Looking After Louis
Written by Lesley Ely and Illustrated by Polly Dunbar
Looking after Louis follows a boy named Louis and a female classmate who sits next to him. Louis has autism, but through imagination, kindness, and a special game of soccer, his classmates find a way to join him in his world. Then they can include Louis in theirs. Follow this link to buy the book on Amazon.
I See Things Differently: A First Look at Autism
Written by Pat Thomas and Illustrated by Claire Keay
Written by a trained psychotherapist, journalist and parent, this book is a part of the “A First Look At” series of non-fiction picture books for Early Years. This reassuring book aims to explain what autism is in simple terms to help children who have siblings or classmates with autism understand what everyday life feels like from a child with autism's perspective. For more information, and to purchase the book on Amazon, click here.