Talking to Angels

by Esther Pearl Watson

A poetic tribute to the author's autistic sister, Christa, explains why autism is not a barrier to love or friendship and celebrates the special world in which the young girl exists.

Genres: Disability

Library Binding

First published March 1, 1996

Reviews

[Brittany Upshaw]

In the book, "Talking to Angels", Esther Watson describes the interest that her and her sister shares. The story is short and right to the point. The story also describes some of the characteristics that a person with autism might display, such as, the staring into space,or the muteness of an autistic person. As a teacher not only can I discuss to my students what autism is but I can also ask them their interest and how their interest are similar and different than those around them in their everyday lives. I could also relate back to the story and ask whether or not my students' share any of the same interest as those described in the story. Although I enjoyed the story, the only concern that I had with the book were the illustrations. I'm afraid if I'm reading this story to my kindergarten students how would they react to the pictures. The pictures look a bit scary in my opinion but other than that the story was great!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about a girl and her sibling, it is a very short and sweet book about a little girl who is autistic. I found it very interesting. I wouldn't recommend this book to just any child though, but i do think it would be a great book for a child that has a sibling that is autistic to read. I feel it would really help them understand their siblings disability and why they do the things they do.

[Amywagner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think the best part of this book is that the pictures are illustrated by the autistic girl. It is a short, sweet story about the things that autistic children do, say and think. Very good for younger students who need and want a simple explantion to their questions.

[Nanell Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the message in this book. Christa is autistic and it seems the only person who really understands her is her sister. I appreciate the story coming from the sisters perspective, as we can see how she feels about Christa. I like that she see’s her sister for who she is and doesn’t try to change her. Instead she is patient and loves playing with her sister. I like that the author set the focus on what Christa likes to do, instead of what she couldn’t.

[Darlena Glenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book about an autistic sister.