Books Explaining Autism for Every Age

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Sometimes, one of the best ways to describe a new and confusing topic to a child can be through a story.  If you are looking to introduce and explain autism to your child, whether it be because of them, a family member or friend’s autism diagnosis, or simple curiosity, here are some books for every age to help you start the conversation.  

Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears (4-8) 

  • A story about a first grader who struggles with sensory overload.  Explains sensory modulation difficulties while creating a more accepting environment for students who become overwhelmed with too much sensory input.  

A Friend Like Simon (4-8) 

  • The story of a boy with autism joining a mainstream school, meant to encourage children to be inclusive and more understanding of a peer who may seem different on the outside.  

Autism Is...? (4-8) 

  • A boy hears his grandmother talking about autism and asks her what it is.  His grandmother describes autism and many of the behaviors that people with autism display.  

My Autism Book (5-9) 

  • A book written to help parents of a newly diagnosed child explain autism to their child.  Designed to be a simple introduction to the topic that explains strengths and differences the child may have.  

My Brother Charlie (7-10) 

  • A girl introduces her twin brother, Charlie, who has autism.  She speaks about her family and how they work together to help Charlie, and how he has many strengths, but also faces challenges.  

Rules (8-12) 

  • A twelve year old girl struggles with having a brother with autism, and has always tried to teach him the “rules,” but begins to question what it really even means to be “normal.”

The Reason I Jump (YA) 

  • A book written by a Japanese thirteen year old boy with autism, who shares his unique point of view and experiences.  

Anything But Typical (YA)

  • A twelve year old boy with autism writes stories on an website, and worries that his friend from the site wouldn’t see him for himself if she knew about his diagnosis.  

Rain Reign (YA) 

  • The main character, rose, is obsessed with homonyms, which not everyone is able to understand.  A storm hits her town, and she has to go on a journey to find her dog.  

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