Family Focus
The following books can be used to bring understanding about the lives of individuals with autism. The books help to explain the characteristics and differences of autism. Many are written from the point of view of a sibling or other family member.
“A” Is for All Aboard
Author: Paula Kluth
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade (and anyone interested in trains)
Short Summary:
The first alphabet book created with children with autism in mind, A Is for "All Aboard!" is the perfect way to foster literacy using children's fascinations. An ideal complement to Kluth & Chandler-Olcott's "A Land We Can Share": Teaching Literacy to Students with Autism, this one-of-a-kind book is
- All about trains—one of the most popular interests of children with autism
- Filled with vibrant, engaging, and uncluttered art
- Written for children of all reading levels, with vocabulary ranging from basic concepts (bridge) to special train jargon (idler car, monorail)
- Shaped by feedback from children with autism
- Complete with helpful teaching tips for educators and parents
Sure to captivate children with autism—and any young train enthusiast—this book will help kids of all ages improve their literacy skills as they learn the ABCs of one of their favorite topics.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Trains
- Alphabet
A Week of Switching, Shifting, and Stretching: How to Make My Thinking More Flexible
Author: Lauren H. Kerstein
Grade Levels: 1-4 grade
Short Summary:
Empower children on the spectrum to be more flexible! This picture book assists children on the autism spectrum, and any child for that matter, to improve their executive function skills. Specifically, A Week of Switching, Shifting, and Stretching How to Make My Thinking More Flexible guides children to examine their black-and-white thinking in order to start using their adaptive thinking. Using repeated rhymes and illustrations, the child begins to recognize that the more flexible their thinking, the better they can cope with the challenges that life presents, ultimately leading to fewer meltdowns.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Executive function
- Flexible thinking
Supplemental Resources:
All About My Brother
Author: Sarah Peralta
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade
Short Summary:
In this charming picture book, eight-year-old Sarah Peralta demystifies autism by giving us insights into the world of her younger brother, Evan, who is nonverbal. While Evan may not be interested in play dates like Sarah is, he loves to jump on his bed, twirl sticks, swim, and munch on potato chips. Through her simple depictions of Evan's everyday behavior, Sarah encourages others to approach autism without fear or pity. The effects of her book will live long beyond the last pages, as Sarah invites her young readers to share ideas on how to live with siblings or classmates who have autism spectrum disorder.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Friendship
- Family
Supplemental Resources:
Andy and His Yellow Frisbee
Author: Mary Thompson
Grade Levels: K-4th grade
Short Summary:
A heartwarming illustrated children’s book about Andy, a boy with autism. Like many children with autism, Andy has a fascination with objects in motion. It’s Andy’s special talent for spinning his Frisbee combined with a new classmate’s curiosity about his behavior that sets this story in motion. Rosie, the watchful and protective sister, supplies background on Andy and autism, as well as a sibling’s perspective.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Sibling perspective
Supplemental Resources:
ASD and Me: Learning About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Author: Teresa DeMars (parent of a child with autism)
Grade Levels: Kindergarten-3rd grade
Short Summary:
Back in 2010, author Teresa DeMars went looking for a book to explain autism to her son. When she couldn’t find one that fit the characteristics of his autism, she wrote ASD and Me. Written for kids diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, PDD-NOS, or autism, parents will appreciate the way this heartwarming children's picture book will help them explain Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to their child on the spectrum. ASD and Me is written from the point of view of Eli, a seven-year-old boy who has ASD. Through the story, Eli explains how he was diagnosed, and how ASD affects the way he thinks and interprets the world around him. He also talks about some of the social and life skills he has learned that help him fit in with others. The story concludes with some of the interests and activities Eli shares with other children. ASD and Me is a great book to help introduce the subject of autism to siblings, classmates, extended family and to those on the spectrum. (Updated print version of the book may not be available from third party sellers.)
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Sibling/family
Supplemental Resources:
- Activities based on Eli’s interests are provided in the book
Autismo... ¿qué es eso? (Spanish Edition)
Author: Ymkje Widerman-van der Laan and Rob Feldman
Grade Levels: 10- 12 years
Short Summary:
En este libro para niños autistas, Logan escucha a su abuela decirle a su amigo que tiene autismo y él le pregunta: "Autismo… ¿qué es eso?" Ella le explica qué es el autismo para él en esta historia bellamente ilustrada. Los niños con autismo enfrentan muchos desafíos y, a menudo, son conscientes de su autismo y lo cuestionan. Por supuesto, cada niño es único y es posible que desee o no explicar el término autismo a su hijo a una edad temprana. Pero si lo hace, este libro puede ayudarlo a que sea más fácil para usted, como lo hizo con el autor cuando le explicó el autismo a Logan. Su mente inquisitiva quería saber, y una vez que leyó esta historia, incluso antes de que fuera ilustrada, se sintió feliz con esta explicación positiva y la respuesta a su pregunta.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- familias
- autismo
- auto-aceptación
Davis Speaks: A Brother with Autism
Author: Teisha N. Glover, Nicholas Glover
Grade Levels: Preschool-5th
Short Summary:
Davis Speaks: A Brother with Autism is a true story about Nicholas and his little brother, Davis, who is different from other boys his age. Follow these African American siblings’ loving journey from meltdowns to Autism diagnosis, to speech and occupational therapy, and finally to Nicholas’s appreciation of having a brother with special needs. By the end of this book, the reader will have a better understanding of Autism and the diagnosis process along with types of therapy and some characteristics of children on the Autism spectrum
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Siblings
Supplemental Resources:
Decibella
Author: Julia Cook
Grade Levels: 4-7 years
Short Summary:
She loves using her loud voice so much, everyone calls her "Decibella!" But that's not a nickname to brag about. Isabella's so loud, she interrupts class and irritates others. She doesn't know how or when to use a softer, quieter voice until her teacher introduces the "five volume" of voice - 6-inch, Whisper, Table-Talk, Strong Speaker, and Outside. Learning how and when to use each voice is made a lot more fun when Isabella is told to practice by saying aloud the word "Slurpadoodle!"
Award-winning author Julia Cook's creative storytelling, coupled with eye-pleasing illustrations, help K through 6 readers learn and remember what voice volume to use when speaking in class, chatting in the library, sitting at the lunch table, or playing outside.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Behavior Management
- Self-Control
- Friendship
Supplemental Resources:
Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes
Author: Jennifer Elder (mother of autistic son)
Grade Levels: Grades 3-7
Short Summary:
Different Like Me introduces children aged 8 to 12 years to famous, inspirational figures from the world of science, art, math, literature, philosophy and comedy.
Eight-year-old Quinn, a young boy with Asperger's Syndrome, tells young readers about the achievements and characteristics of his autism heroes, from Albert Einstein, Dian Fossey and Wassily Kandinsky to Lewis Carroll, Benjamin Banneker and Julia Bowman Robinson, among others. All excel in different fields but are united by the fact that they often found it difficult to fit in-just like Quinn.
Fully illustrated in color and written in child-friendly language, this book will be a wonderful resource for children, particularly children with autism, their parents, teachers, carers and siblings.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Diversity
- Intelligence
- Peers
- Friendship
Lucas tiene Superpoderes: un cuento sobre el autismo
Author: Ana Luengo
Grade Levels: Ages 6-10
Short Summary:
"Lucas tiene Superpoderes" (Ediciones DeFǎbula S.C.P), released in Spain, was inspired by Luengo's 11-year-old son Niklas, who is autistic, and her 9-year-old daughter Milena, who is not. Translated, the title means "Lucas has superpowers." The book targets readers ages 6 to 10.
The story is told through the eyes of 8-year-old Pablo, the oldest of six cousins who gather at their grandmother's home for her 70th birthday celebration. It's the first time the whole family has gathered since Pablo's cousin Lucas, now 4, was an infant. As they observe his behavior, the cousins try to understand why Lucas behaves the way he does. Lucas's mother explains that Lucas is autistic and that some situations are difficult for children with autism.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Family perspective
- sensory
MI Hermano Es Especial Mi Hermano Tiene Autismo: Un Cuento Acerca de Aceptacion
Author: Marta Schmidt-Mendez
Grade Levels: 5-6 years age
Short Summary:
Mi Hermano es Especial, Mi Hermano Tiene Autismo narra la historia del deseo de una niña de tener un hermano. La historia cubre la anticipación que siente una hermana mayor al prepararse para su nuevo papel en la familia. Mi Hermano es Especial, Mi Hermano Tiene Autismo refleja el recorrido de una familia cuando se da cuenta que su gran esperado pequeño está cambiando del alegre niño que ellos conocían a un niño introvertido y menos comunicativo. Esta historia, vista a través de los ojos de una hermana mayor, expresa la confusión y el dolor que una familia siente cuando se enfrenta con un diagnóstico de autismo. La historia también enseña la belleza de aceptar a una persona aunque esa persona sea diferente y demuestra que a veces un sueño no termina, sino que necesita ajustes. Un diagnóstico de autismo tiene impacto en todos los miembros de una familia. Los adultos tienen la oportunidad de hablar con profesionales, explorar el internet y hablar con otras personas en situaciones similares. Los niños tienen menos opciones. Es aterrante para ellos ver a los adultos en su vida en angustia, sin entender el porqué. Este libro ha sido escrito para los niños impactado por el diagnostico de autismo de alguien en su familia. La esperanza del autor es que este libro asista a los padres, maestros y cualquier otro adulto, a ayudar a niños enfrentar esta situación.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Sibling perspective
Mi Hermano Luca
Author: Catalina Serna
Grade Levels: Pre-K to 5th grade
Short Summary:
Eugenia tiene un hermano que se llama Luca, juntos se divierten mucho, aunque a veces él prefiera estar solo. Ella nos cuenta sobre sus cualidades y todo lo que lo hace único y especial. ¿Lo quieres conocer? Este libro nos ayuda a identificar algunas de las características más comunes del autismo y así trabajar juntos hacia un mundo más inclusivo.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Family perspective
- Sensory
- Special interest
Supplemental Resources:
Noah Chases the Wind
Author: Michelle Worthington
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade
Short Summary:
Noah knew he was different. He could see things that others couldn't, like the patterns in the dust that floated down on sunbeams. Noah is different. He sees, hears, feels, and thinks in ways that other people don't always understand, and he asks a lot of questions along the way. Noah loves science, especially the weather. His books usually provide him with the answers he needs, until one day, there's one question they don't answer—and that is where Noah's windy adventure begins.
Filled with rich, sweeping illustrations, this picture book celebrates the inquisitive nature of all children, including those on the autism spectrum, who cannot stop asking a question until an answer has been unearthed.
The book contains a page of information for parents, caregivers, and educators about the importance of helping children feel good about their differences and know that being different is okay.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Sensory
- Inclusion
- Special interest
- Theory of mind
Supplemental Resources:
Pedro’s Whale
Author: Paula Kluth and Patrick Schwartz Artist: Justin Canha (person with autism)
Grade Levels: Grades 1-2
Short Summary:
Based on the real-life event that inspired Paula Kluth and Patrick Schwarz's bestselling "Just Give Him the Whale!," this simple but powerful story introduces educators to one of the best, most effective inclusion strategies: using students' fascinations to help them learn.
Pedro, a young boy who loves whales more than anything, is heartbroken when he's told to put away his favorite toy whale on the first day of school. But then Pedro's teacher discovers the secret to helping him do his best work: not only giving him his whale, but also incorporating his special interest into the whole curriculum. Soon, Pedro's whale is helping all the children learn, as the teacher works whales into math lessons, storytime, simple science experiments, and more! Pedro's whale helps him make friends, too, as the other children start to share his special interest.
An ideal teaching tool, Pedro's Whale will inspire educators to harness their students' natural motivations. The engaging, full-color illustrations (by Justin Canha, a gifted artist on the autism spectrum) also make this book perfect for storytime, so all children can increase their sensitivity to peers with special needs and learning differences.
Everyone who reads Pedro's Whale will remember its eye-opening message: when you work with instead of against what students love, they feel safe, happy, and ready to learn. Used in tandem with "Just Give Him the Whale!," this enlightening story will help teachers maximize inclusion and ensure that students with and without disabilities reach their full potential.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Special interest
- Inclusion
- Acceptance
Supplemental Resources:
Rules
Author: Cynthia Lord (she has a son with autism)
Grade Levels: Grades 3-8
Short Summary:
Twelve-year-old Catherine just wants a normal life. Which is nearly impossible when you have a brother with autism and a family that revolves around his disability. She's spent years trying to teach David the rules, from "a peach is not a funny-looking apple" to "keep your pants on in public," in order to stop his embarrassing behaviors. But the summer Catherine meets Jason, a paraplegic boy, and Kristi, the next-door friend she's always wished for, it's her own shocking behavior that turns everything upside down and forces her to ask: What is normal?
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Friendship
- Honesty
- Acceptance
- Diversity
Supplemental Resources:
Russell’s World: A Story for Kids about Autism
Author: Charles A. Amenta III
Grade Levels: K-2
Short Summary:
Describes the daily life, likes and dislikes, and habits of Russell Amenta, who is a happy boy despite being severely autistic.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
Supplemental Resources:
Since We’re Friends: An Autism Picture Book
Author: Celeste Shally
Grade Levels: Preschool-2 grade
Short Summary:
Matt’s autism doesn’t keep him from having fun! Even when he struggles in social situations, his friend is there to help him out. The two boys love playing sports, watching movies, reading books, and talking about animals. By working together, a best friend’s understanding and compassion change Matt’s frustration into excitement. No matter where they go—from the basketball court to the playground swings to the neighborhood pool—the two friends enjoy spending time with each other.
David Harrington’s bright illustrations delightfully compliment Celeste Shally’s sweet and touching story of friendship. This book is the perfect guide for parents and children to better understand people with autism spectrum disorders.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Social
- Families
Supplemental Resources:
Sometimes My Brother: Helping Kids Understand Through a Sibling’s Eyes
Author: Angie Greenlaw (mother of child with autism)
Grade Levels: Preschool-2 grade
Short Summary:
This adorable picture book shows readers the challenges that children with autism face and the obstacles they overturn. It is lovingly written in the perspective of three-year-old Foster, who explains his experiences with his older brother, Gavin, who has autism. Vibrant photographs bring you right into their living room, school, and playground. Foster's innocent approach is perfect for teaching others what autism is all about, and for letting other siblings of children with autism know that they are not alone. Angie Healy, the boys' mother, provides a “how-to” section at the end so families can create their own personalized books.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Family
- Siblings
- Autism
Supplemental Resources:
- How to section in book for families about creating their own personalized books
Tacos Anyone?
Author: Marvie Ellis
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade
Short Summary:
Michael is a four year old boy with autism. His older brother, Thomas, doesn't understand why Michael behaves the way he does. The therapist teaches Thomas how to play with Michael, making sibling time fun again. This fully color illustrated, bilingual (English and Spanish) children's book is written for young readers, parents, siblings, family members, and professionals who work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Recipient of the 2005 Barbara Jordan Media Award.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Family
- Autism
- Play skills
- Behavior
This is Me! I Am Who I’m Meant to Be!
Author: Amy Pfluger (mother of 2 boys with autism)
Grade Levels: K-4th grade
Short Summary:
Have you wondered what the world is like through the eyes of someone with Autism? Able is a boy who has autism, inviting you to visit his unique world. This book explains autism in a special way, to help people understand more about autism, to embrace differences and to raise acceptance. This story is to empower kids with autism to believe in themselves and reach their full potential no matter what challenges they have; encouraging them to be confident in being who they are- because they are who they're meant to be!
"This is me! I am who I'm meant to be!" will show you the uniqueness and power of autism, while taking you on a journey of self-acceptance
This autism children's book is a great tool. Parents face challenges raising children with autism, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, also challenges in raising an exceptional child. A family guide to helping the special needs, encouraging kids in being who you are, discover your child's abilities, build confidence for kids, embracing our difference and dealing with anxiety and depression. A great autistic book for kids!
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism acceptance
- Self-acceptance
- Resilience
- Challenges
- Differences
Supplemental Resources:
- Video Read Aloud
- Great to use during spirit week @ school (superpowers)
- Have students dress-up as their favorite superhero
- Design a cape using words that describe your unique self. Can use a towel or a sheet.
Trainman: Gaining Acceptance and Friends Through Special Interests
Author: Stefan Kavan
Grade Levels: 3-7 grade
Short Summary:
In this warmly illustrated children's book, we meet Stefan, who has a deep interest in trains, roads, and maps. At first, Stefan's near-exclusive interest in transportation-related topics isolated him from other kids, but his parents and teachers helped turn his unique talents into an asset. His classmates now respect Stefan for his vast knowledge and have come to recognize that he is more like them than different. This book is an ideal addition to any autism awareness program at the elementary level.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Special interests
- Autism
- Acceptance
Tully and Me: A Story about Differences, Understanding and Friendship
Author: Keeley Shaw
Grade Levels: Preschool-6th grade
Short Summary:
"A smile feels the same on the inside."Tully and Me explores a friendship built on differences and understanding. Tully represents an individual affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. The unique characteristics associated with Autism are portrayed including an affinity for counting and order, and a love for visual stimulation. Whimsical watercolor illustrations help to showcase a unique friendship that is nurtured through adversity and understanding. Tully and Me explores a world where our differences and the universal language of a smile bring us together. Everyone who enjoyed The Dot by Peter Reynolds, We're amazing 1,2,3 by Leslie Kimmelman and Marybeth Nelson, and I'm Like You, You're Like Me by Cindy Gainer will enjoy this read as well! This book is an excellent teaching tool for lessons on diversity, Autism, individuals with special needs, and accepting and curating friendships with people who are different. As well, it is a beautiful story for families to share. This picture book is appropriate for children and adults of all ages.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Diversity
- Friendship
- Autism
- Special needs
Supplemental Resources:
Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome
Author: Clarabelle Van Niekerk
Grade Levels: Kindergarten –2 grade
Short Summary:
Answering the question Why is Sam different?, this heartwarming story tells of the challenges of living with Asperger Syndrome, a form of autism. This firsthand view of the life of an undiagnosed child presents behaviors and characteristics that are common among children with this disorder. Sam doesn't like his pancakes to touch, his sister is annoyed with his repetitive song, and his new coat hurts his skin, but once he is diagnosed, teamwork-based support helps Sam's life become a little easier. With endearing illustrations, the book includes 10 helpful tips geared toward children, showing them how to respect and accept differences as well as to interact with a classmate or friend with Asperger Syndrome.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Sensory
- Differences
Supplemental Resources:
Views From Our Shoes: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs
Author: Donald Joseph Myer
Grade Levels: 4-9th grade
Short Summary:
In Views From Our Shoes, 45 siblings share their experiences as the brother or sister of someone with a disability. The children whose essays are featured here range from four to eighteen and are the siblings of youngsters with a variety of special needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, ADD, hydrocephalus, visual and hearing impairments, Down and Tourette syndromes.
Their personal tales introduce young siblings to others like them, perhaps for the first time, and allow them to compare experiences. A glossary of disabilities provides easy-to-understand definitions of many of the conditions mentioned.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Disability
- Siblings
- Acceptance
Voices are Not for Yelling
Author: Elizabeth Verdick
Grade Levels: 4-7 years
Short Summary:
As parents and teachers know, yelling comes naturally to children. This friendly, encouraging book, geared to preschool and primary children, introduces and reinforces where and when to use an “indoor voice” or an “outdoor voice.” In classic Best Behavior style the author tells young readers, “Your voice is a powerful tool. How you use it is up to you.” Vivid illustrations show the times and places for an indoor voice, the ways people ask us to quiet our voices, and times when yelling might occur. “What happens if you’re mad or frustrated or really, really excited? Your voice gets louder and LOUDER.” But yelling hurts people’s ears and feelings. Children learn that they can quiet their voice and use their words to talk about a problem. “Think before you yell, and use your words well!” Includes a special section for parents and caregivers with activities and discussion starters.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Friendship
- Acceptance
Supplemental Resources:
We’re Amazing 1, 2, 3! (Sesame Street)
Author: Leslie Kimmelman
Grade Levels: Preschool-3rd grade
Short Summary:
This story stars Elmo, Abby, and their friend Julia, who has autism. Together, the three pals have a delightful playdate.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Friendship
- Sensory
Supplemental Resources:
What Does Happy Look Like?
Author: Joseph and Sylvana Karim
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade
Short Summary:
Emotions are difficult for most children to understand, they pose a particular challenge for children with autism spectrum disorders due to their literal and concrete way of thinking and learning. Help for children now comes in the form of this charming picture book, which presents examples of the basic emotions, happy, sad, mad, etc., in environments and situations that are familiar to children and, therefore, are easier to understand. Fun activities at the back of the book make this a truly interactive instructional experience.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Emotions
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears?
Author: Jennifer Veenendall
Grade Levels: Preschool-2nd grade
Short Summary:
Meet Izzy, 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 creates an environment that is accepting of students with sensory modulation difficulties, including many on the autism spectrum. It's a great resource for occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to share with children. Resources for adults at the end of the book include definitions of sensory processing and sensory modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions, and lists of related books and websites.
Themes/Topics Covered:
- Autism
- Sensory
- Behaviors
- Friendship
- Acceptance
Supplemental Resources: