April has arrived and autism acceptance month is here! If you are looking for some book suggestions to read for Autism acceptance month I have compiled a list below. These books are centered around autistic individuals or promote the idea of neurodiversity. Firstly, this list includes the books that I put on display in our school’s Autism acceptance month library. This shelf sits in the library during the month of April to encourage other teachers and students to learn, appreciate, and value the beauty of Autism. Secondly, I teach in an elementary setting so many of these books are picture books or are geared toward elementary students.
Before we dive into this list, I will be linking this article that a friend shared with me. This has opened my eyes to the history of Autism Awareness, the puzzle piece symbol, and the term “ableism”. It’s important to do our own research and remain informed on what we are promoting during the month of April.
1-Nathan’s Autism Spectrum Superpowers by Lori Leigh Yarborough. PT illustrated by Natalie Merheb
This book is about a boy named Nathan. It highlights Autistic traits. Most importantly, this book contains sections titled “helpful hints for friends”. It walks through possible ways you can help an Autistic friend if needed.
2-A Friend Like Simon by Kate Gaynor illustrated by Caitriona Sweeney
This book is about a new student named Simon that joins a class. This story shows the importance of being mindful of differences the that exist. It also highlights the positive contribution that Autistic individuals can bring amongst a group of friends.
3-Uniquely Wired by Julia Cook illustrated by Anita Dufalla
This is a book about Zak. It highlights his Autistic traits and refers to them as gifts. This story goes through his special interests and explains the reasoning behind Autistic traits. Moreover, it allows for conversations to begin about better understanding, appreciating, and accepting differences.
4-All My Stripes by Shaina Rudolph and Daniella Royer illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin
Another great story that highlights Autistic traits and the importance of accepting those who are different. This book also paints a positive picture about Autistic individuals. Most importantly, it talks about positive qualities as well.
5-It’s Okay to be Different by Todd Parr
This book highlights that it’s okay to be different. It gives many different examples of ways we are all different and highlights the ideas of embracing others as they are. This could be a great conversation starter if you are just beginning to talk about differences.
6-Different Like Me by Jennifer Elder illustrated by Marc Thomas and Jennifer Elder
I love this book so much! Each page talks about a historical figures who either accessed the world differently or were different in general, yet made massive contributions to the world. This book reiterates that Autistic individuals can excel too.
7-My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete illustrated by Shane W. Evans
My Brother Charlie was written from a sibling perspective. It talks about his differences in the way that he shows love and compassion. Charlie’s sister finds appreciation and acceptance in his differences.
8-The Girl Who Thought In Pictures The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca
A book that paints the story of Temple Grandin from when she was born to now. It talks about the obstacles she faced. The main idea is that being different is what the world needs. It also highlights the importance of knowing your strengths and pursuing them.
9-“Why is He Doing That?” by Rachel Cuellar
This book highlights the many questions I hear general education students ask about Autistic individuals. It explains many Autistic traits and is a helpful conversation starter about kids accepting differences amongst their peers.
10-Autism Is… by Ymkje Wideman-van der Laan
This book explains how Autistic people access the world differently. It’s about a grandmother explaining to her 6 year old Autistic grandson what Autism is. The grandmother doesn’t view Autism as a bad thing or a secret word but rather gives a helpful explanation of Autistic traits and facts.
11-Leah’s Voice by Lori Demonia illustrated by Monique Turchan
Lastly, this is a story about Leah and Logan. They are two twin sisters and one of them is Autistic. This story talks about Autistic traits and differences that arise in various social situations and within family dynamics that might not seem “normal” to kids. This story also highlights how we can learn to appreciate differences. Everyone has different strengths to admire.
I hope this booklist was helpful in introducing you to more ways to start conversations about Autism for Autism acceptance month. Most importantly, the key point here beyond reading these books to children is to highlight the differences in Autistic individuals. To find beauty, appreciation, and respect in those differences and neurodiversity.
Be sure to check out my other posts related to helping students access the world in whichever ways they need to!
