Children’s books about autism play a crucial role in fostering understanding, empathy, and acceptance. These books can help both children on the autism spectrum and their neurotypical peers better understand autism and celebrate neurodiversity.
- “My Brother Charlie” by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
- A heartwarming story about a girl and her autistic twin brother
- “A Friend Like Simon” by Kate Gaynor
- Introduces autism to children through the story of a boy befriending his autistic classmate
- “All My Stripes” by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer
- Uses the metaphor of a zebra’s stripes to explain how autism is just one part of a person’s identity
- “The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin” by Julia Finley Mosca
- A biography of the famous animal scientist with autism, inspiring children to embrace their unique minds
- “Autism Is…?” by Ymkje Wideman-van der Laan
- Explains autism in simple terms for young children
- “Since We’re Friends” by Celeste Shally
- A story about friendship between a boy with autism and his neurotypical friend
- “The Reason I Jump” by Naoki Higashida
- Written by a 13-year-old boy with autism, offering insights into an autistic mind
- “Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts” by Julia Cook
- Celebrates the unique qualities of children with autism
- “Noah Chases the Wind” by Michelle Worthington
- A beautifully illustrated book about a boy with autism who loves exploring the world
- “Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes” by Jennifer Elder
- Profiles famous people throughout history who may have been on the autism spectrum
These books offer diverse perspectives on autism, helping to build a more inclusive and understanding society from an early age.
