April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. Let's raise awareness about people with autism, as well as those who love and support them!
Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder, affects the way a person communicates. It can also affect how a person relates to other people and the world around them. There are many types of autism. In Canada, it's estimated that 1 in 66 kids (ages 5 to 17) have autism.
Learn more with our recommended reads:
My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete, Ryan Elizabeth Peete and Shane W. Evans
A girl shares what it's like living with her twin brother. Charlie has autism and sometimes finds it hard to communicate with words. But in most ways, he's just like any other boy.
The Girl Who Thought In Pictures by Julia Finley Mosca and Daniel Rieley
A true story about Dr. Temple Grandin. After an incident that got her kicked out of school, she went to live on a farm with her aunt. She grew up to be a scientist and inventor who won many prizes. Dr. Grandin's message to everyone is that differences are what makes us unique, and never let doubt hold you back from doing what you love!
Duck Days by Sara Leach
Lauren's best friend has a new friend that Lauren doesn't want to hang out with. To make things worse, her school has a mountain bike day, which scares her because she uses training wheels. Can Lauren face her fears and learn how to go with the flow?
Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen! by Sarah Kapit
Vivy is tired of playing catch in the park and is ready to join a real baseball team. But her mom is worried about her joining a team where she's the only girl, and the only person with autism. When she finally does join the team, she gets hurt and ends up on the bench. But Vivy is determined to not let this get in the way of her dreams!
Planet Earth is Blue by Nicole Panteleakos
Nova and her big sister, Bridget, love astronomy and are excitedly awaiting the launch of the space shuttle Challenger. But then Nova is moved to new foster home and Bridget disappears without a trace. Nova is autistic and, without Bridget, she must find a way to navigate the world on her own.
The Space We're In by Katya Balen
Frank often feels his life has to circle around his little brother Max, who has autism. But when tragedy strikes, Frank finds a way to try to repair their fractured family, and in doing so learns to love Max for who he is.
For more recommendations, including books with positive representation of other disabilities, check out our Disability: Read Up on It! booklist.
