Reading is one of the best ways to learn and there are some brilliant books out there about autism. Here are books I have read and would recommend you try.
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Books about autism
How to raise a happy autistic child by Jessie Hewitson
A great introductory book for parents. A really easy read with brilliant coverage of the key areas of information parents need to know.
Neurotribes by Steve Silberman
A fascinating book full of the history of autism and the neurodiversity movement. It did take me a while to read but it was really worthwhile. This book genuinely helped me to understand autism and see the real value and positives of neurodiversity. I really would urge everyone to take the time to read this book.
Autobiographies
The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida
An easy short read written when Naoki Higashida was 13. The Japanese author is autistic and non verbal. This fantastic book provides an insight into his world. A must read for any parent of a non – speaking child.
Fall Down 7 Times and Get Up 8 by Naoki Higashida
In Higashida’s second book he writes as a young man. I found it to be a very moving book particularly as he shows a real depth of understanding towards his readers. Another must read.
How to be Autistic by Charlotte Amelia Poe
This is a wonderfully honest account of life growing up on the spectrum. Undiagnosed until she was an adult Charlotte provides great insights into being autistic. It is written for everyone and will be enjoyed by autistic and neurotypicals alike. This is an easy read and one I really enjoyed reading and learnt a lot from.
Thinking in Pictures by Temple Grandin
A great insight into how a visual mind works by one of the most famous autistic authors. The book may be slightly dated language wise but it is still a very interesting read.
Books on communication
Is that Clear? Effective Communication in a neurodiverse world by by Zanne Gaynor
A really quick easy read full of fantastic advice on communication. So many misunderstandings can be avoided if we all learn to communicate for a neurodiverse world.
A Different Kettle of Fish by Michael Barton
A quick but fun read. The book explores the bizarre idioms of the English language. Very funny and makes some great points about our use of everyday language.
Building Language using Lego Bricks by Dawn Ralph and Jacqui Rochester
I had the privilege of attending a short workshop by the authors at the Autism Show and their helpful advice on using Lego to support language development is very useful.
Practical Books
Starving the Anxiety Gremlin by Kate Collins Donnelly
A helpful Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Workbook on Anxiety Management
Avoiding Anxiety in Autistic Children by Dr Luke Beardon
An easy read full of great advice on supporting autistic children with anxiety.
The Autism – Friendly Guide to Periods by Robyn Steward
A must read book for young autistic girls.
Books for Children
Learning About Autism with Suzie and Cruzie by Charlotte Olson
A perfect introduction to autism for young children from the Suzie books series.
My Awesome Autism by Nikki Saunders
Another great introduction to autism from the Eddie Book Series.
A lovely book highlighting differences in communicating feelings
Fiction
You may know Chris Bonnello from his website and online community Autistic Not Weird. Chris who has Asperger’s is the author of a brilliant page turner with Underdogs. If you want to learn about neurodiversity and have some fun while you do it this is the book for you.
Underdogs is a near future dystopian war novel with a band of neurodiverse students from a specialist school as its heroes. An easy to read thriller with real depth to the characters. I really enjoyed getting inside the head of young people with autism, ADHD and anxiety and getting a glimpse of how they view the world.
The second book in the series Underdogs Tooth and Nail is now available and it is as brilliant as the first book. Some fantastic characters providing insights into neurodiversity who I am now fully invested in so looking forward to book 3 – Underdogs Acceleration.
You may also want to see my book reviews of 100 Ways Your Child Can Learn Through Play by Georgina Durrant.
I hope you get as much out of these books as I did. If you have suggestions for me to read next let me know in the comments.
A few recommendations from my friends:
My Building Attention eBook might be of interest. It contains tips on getting attention and 23 fun activities.
It is designed to support young children that struggle with attention and communication. Each activity can be completed quickly using household items.
