Making Sense of Autism Spectrum Differences: Books for children

“Making Sense of Aspergers: A Story for Children” by Debra Ende and illustrated by Bettina Guthridge.

This accessible illustrated book uses the metaphor of different computer operating systems to explain the different perspective and worldview held by children with autism spectrum differences. The positive language used throughout the book encourages the development of a positive narrative about differing worldviews.

“To Be Me: Understanding What It’s Like to Have Asperger’s Syndrome” by Rebecca Ettlinger and Mark Tomassi

This illustrated guide for children with high-functioning autism is written with sensitivity and clarity. The concept of differences in the way brains work is laid out through the perspective of a 10 year old boy with Asperger’s syndrome.

“What It Is To Be Me: An Asperger Kid Book” by Angela Wine

This illustrated book for children covers the key differences for children with high-functioning autism in an accessible way.

“I  Am Utterly Unique: Celebrating the Strengths of Children with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism” by Elaine Marie Larson.

This illustrated book highlights behaviors and qualities shared by children with autism spectrum differences. The author uses each letter of the alphabet to anchor the traits.

“E-mergency!” by Tom Lichtenheld and illustrated by Ezra Fields-Meyer

This delightful book, illustrated by a young man with autism differences, centers around what happens when the letter “E” tumbles down the stairs of the alphabet house and is out of commission. Although it does not directly address autism spectrum differences the illustrations and word play strike a chord with children who appreciate visual details.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” by Mark Haddon

This fiction book is narrated by a fifteen-year old with high-functioning autism and provides insight into the sensory-driven perspective of children with autism spectrum differences as the narrator goes on adventures and solves a mystery.