Parents
know all too well that reading aloud is one of the most important things they
can do to help their child with vocabulary, learning about relationships and
feelings, and that it also works their imagination. But when your child has
autism, sometimes it’s not always easy to find books that will engage their child
and help them discover their own place in the world.
Here are a few books considered to be the
“best about the autism spectrum that can provide a bit of comfort and understanding
through a good story,” from Applied Behavior Analysis Programs, an organization
that provides real world information to those who wish to work in the special
education field.
Hello Roar, Little Dinosaur (Learning
Development Aids, 2012)
Hazel Reeves
Ages 3-8
“Hello Roar, Little Dinosaur” is a book which children with high-functioning autism are sure to
relate to. Like children on the autism spectrum, little Roar thinks about things
in a different way, but she also realizes that that is what makes her special.
Each Roar book features Roar using her unique abilities on an adventure
alongside a family member or friend.
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears? (Autism Asperger
Publishing Company, 2009)
Jennifer Veenendall
Ages 4-8
Izzy is a fun and feisty first grader who is often misunderstood because of her
seemingly odd behavior. This vibrantly illustrated book tells the story of how
Izzy attempts to cope with sensory overload in surroundings that are new to
her, while simultaneously promoting the acceptance of peers with sensory
modulation difficulties.
All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism (Magination Press, 2015)
Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer
Ages 5-8
Zane the zebra has autism, and he is worried that his friends and classmates
will make fun of his stripes, which make him different. As Zane learns that
having autism is one of the many things that actually makes him special, young
readers will relate to Zane and realize that they, too, have plenty to be proud
of.
READ MORE: Sensational toys for sensory kids
Andy and His Yellow Frisbee (Woodbine House,
1996)
Mary Thompson
Ages 5-8
When a new girl at school notices Andy playing alone with his yellow frisbee,
Andy’s protective older sister, Rosie, becomes afraid that the girl will upset
Andy. Through Rosie’s explanations of autism, young readers learn about the
challenges faced by those on the autism spectrum. At the end of the book, the
author also includes a helpful and insightful list autism facts.
Autism Is…? (CreateSpace Independent
Publishing Platform, 2012)
Ymkje Wideman-van der Laan
Ages 5-8
When young Logan hears his grandmother tell her friend that Logan has autism,
he wonders what she means? “Autism Is….?” is Logan’s grandmother’s answer, and
children on the autism spectrum are sure to appreciate her easy-to-understand,
child-friendly explanation of the facts. The book is part of a series featuring Logan
and aimed at young readers on the spectrum, and other books include “Feelings
Are…?”, “Manners Are….?”, “School Rules Are…?”, “Danger Is….?”, and a wide
range of other topics helpful to those with autism.
All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome (Jessica
Kingsley Publishers, 2006)
Kathy Hoopmann
Ages 7 and Up
Not only does this delightful book include fun color photographs of cats and
kittens, it also offers a humorous glimpse at some of the difficulties and joys
of raising a child on the autism spectrum. Hoopmann draws insightful parallels
between children with Asperger Syndrome and household cats, including sensitive
hearing, picky eating habits, and a dislike of being touched.
Can I Tell You About Asperger’s Syndrome?
(Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2003)
Jude Welton
Ages 7-15
“Can I Tell You About Asperger’s Syndrome?” is narrated by Adam, a young boy on
the autism spectrum. Through easily understood explanations and
interesting illustrations, Adam teaches readers what Asperger’s Syndrome is,
the different challenges faced by those with Asperger’s, and how young people
can understand and appreciate their peers on the spectrum.
The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee
(Chronicle Books; Reprint edition, 2015)
Barry Jonsberg
Ages 9-12
Barry Jonsberg’s novel “The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee” tells
the story of a 12-year old girl on the autism spectrum. Candice has plenty of
quirks, and her lovable nature is sure to make any young reader happy to jump
on board her adventure.