Picture Books About Autism

My Brother Charlie By Holly Robinson Peete & Ryan Elizabeth Peete is a book for siblings of children who have autism spectrum disorder. Written in clear simple language from the sister's perspective the book gives readers a look at what autism looks like for this family. Children will be able to relate to the characters and draw parallels between themselves or someone they know.

Free lesson plan for you to go with My Brother Charlie!

All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism by Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer. Illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin is a vibrantly illustrated book about Zane the Zebra. Zane the Zebra doesn't do things in the same way as other children in school. Others paint with their hooves, he uses a paintbrush. Instead of studying a planet, he creates his own. The book focuses on how he learns to love himself. This picture book about autism can encourage children to love themselves and learn empathy for others.

Autism Is...? (Autism Is...? Books) (Volume 1)  by Ymkje Wideman-van der Laan & Illustrated by Rob Feldman is written in prose that will delight the children. Autism is explained in a simple way that is appropriate and accessible to small children. This book will help children with autism understand who they are, in a way that is positive and comfortable. The illustrations will be appealing to the kids.

20+ Autism Games & Autism Activities Your Child Will Love

Noah Chases the Wind (Redleaf Lane - Early Experiences) by Michelle Worthington & Illustrated by Joseph Cowman is a book that touches my heart. I loved both the message and the magical illustrations. This book explores diversity and the imagination of a child with autism with empathy. While it does that it also speaks to children everywhere who are curious and whimsical. "Worthington's sensitive exploration leaves readers with their own set of questions and perhaps gratitude for all types of perspectives." (Kirkus Reviews)

Noah Chases The Wind - Author Interview

How to Be Human: Diary of an Autistic Girl By Georgia Lyon (AKA Florida Frenz) is a book that focuses on Georgia's journey to learn social skills. The book does an exceptional job of explaining and illustrating how Georgia experienced and processed her autism. Georgia wrote this book so that others, those with and without autism, can better understand that we are all human beings--just packaged differently, and that empowerment comes from understanding ourselves and connecting with others. Although it is a picture book it is geared for older children.

How to Be Human Book Curriculum - loaded with social skills activities!

A Friend Like Simon by Kate Gaynot gently explores friendship. The book is a good introduction for children on how to be inclusive and discover what is likable about themselves and others. It also explains how some children can find different situations or environments difficult without being scary. Reading this book with the children can help them learn to connect with peers who may be different.

Two companion activities for A FRIEND LIKE SIMON by Kate Gaynor

Looking after Louis by Lesley Ely & Illustrated by Polly Dunbar is a book about inclusion. Autism and the behaviors that can come with it are adeptly explained. The book does present mainstreaming in a way that I do not personally agree with, though. I want the children to both learn and have social opportunities in their classroom. That being said, children like this book and clearly understand the message of inclusion.

Here are some activities for Looking after Louis.

The last book, Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev & Illustrated by Taeeun Yoo is not a book about autism. However, children with or without autism will embrace the message. It is a book about being different and how that feels. This book draws the kids in and invites discussion and observations. While reading this book it would be easy to gently guide the discussion towards how autism can affect how people feel and how they can be empowered and feel included.

Strictly No Elephants Coloring Pages from Scholastic.