8 Heartfelt Books About Autism You Should Read with Your Kids

Because understanding and connecting is key.

April 03, 2024

By: Jessica Butler

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8 Must-Read Books About Autism

April is Autism Awareness Month, and there’s just so much to share and learn. Whether your child is on the spectrum or has a friend who is, these inspiring books will challenge, entertain, and connect with them in so many important ways. Which book will you read with your kid first?

Dragon and His Friend

This adorably animated children’s book explains the basics of autism. Follow Dragon as he learns to understand his friend with autism a bit better through various situations and themes. Best of all, you and your child will enjoy the short, rhyming phrases and the accompanying pictures throughout.

BUY IT: Amazon, $12

The Reason I Jump

Discover the one-of-a-kind memoire that is "The Reason I Jump." It was written by a clever 13-year-old with autism, Naoki Higashida, to communicate how those with autism can think, feel, perceive, and behave differently. His book beautifully answers some of the most common questions people have about autism.

BUY IT: Amazon, $13

Autism and Me

A fun guide book like this one is a great tool for older kids with autism. The book contains 35 activities and it’s loaded with tips for handling emotions, navigating school, and communicating with others. It even contains personal stories from real kids for your child to relate to.

BUY IT: Amazon, $12

I see Things Differently

You’ll often hear the phrase "see things differently" used when referring to autism. This book uses that phrase to explain situations, tackle myths, and keep the conversation going. Whether your child has a classmate or a friend with autism or they’re just looking to understand themselves better, they’ll love this wholesome, educational read.

BUY IT: Amazon, $9

All My Stripes: A Story for Children With Autism

Zane the zebra’s stripes are entirely unique — especially his autism stripe — but he wonders why he looks so different from his classmates. Luckily, his mama helps him understand that all of his stripes are powerful and have important meanings behind them. Just like Zane and his mom, you and your kiddo can embrace what makes autism so special.

BUY IT: Amazon, $13

Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts

Follow Zak as he learns about fairness, curiosity, and independence — all while explaining the distinctive and "atypical" ways in which he copes and handles life situations. Zak considers his autism a gift, and you and your child will too.

BUY IT: Amazon, $11

Since We're Friends: An Autism Picture Book

This heartwarming picture book features a very beautiful friendship. Although the main character, Matt, struggles in some social situations, his best friend is always there to support him. In addition to the more obvious autism themes, this pick will also teach your child about compassion and what it means to be a true friend!

BUY IT: Amazon, $13

A Friend for Henry

Explore Henry’s world in this captivating story. Henry is on the autism spectrum and on the hunt for a friend, but a bad day leaves him feeling a bit defeated. Little does he know, a friend is about to find him instead.

BUY IT: Amazon, $12

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