My Friend with Autism

by Beverly Bishop, Craig Bishop (Illustrator)

Written for classmates of spectrum students and the classmates' parents, this kid-friendly book explains in positive ways that children with autism are good at some things, not so good at others - just like everyone else! The narrator (a peer) notes that his friend's senses work ""really well"" - he can hear sounds no one else can hear; his eyes work so well bright lights can hurt them. In all cases, the differences are described in a kind, understanding manner. There are charming illustrations for readers to color. ""Notes for Adults"" offer parents more detailed information about the ""kid's pages.""

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Picture Books

30 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Kyleigh Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has two different parts to it. The first part tells a story of a boy with autism and how he is different. It is made for students to read and understand. The second part is for parents and teachers. It is made to further explain questions and provide insight. I would use this in the classroom to teach about inclusion and different character feelings and traits.

[Jaci Benson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like that this enhanced edition comes with a CD full of coloring pages to go with the story. I'm in search for a good book to read to grades 4-8 explaining autism. I would definitely read this book to some of my students, probably the younger students or lower functioning students. However, I wish it would explain how each student with autism is completely unique, and no two are the same.

[Fahula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is useful for a whole class lesson on autism. It approaches sensitivities by describing them as strengths. While describing challenging aspects of autism, it provides examples of how the main character can respond in ways that are helpful to the autistic friend. The colourful pages and illustrations add cheer and interest. Many examples of an individualized education program are presented in a very natural way so that students can make connections. The enhanced edition of this book may be especially helpful for parents of an autistic child who may be new to their child’s diagnosis since the book ends with information and strategies to help children with autism. A CD of colouring pages accompanies the book.

It is similar to a more abbreviated book by Debbie Lockrey-Wessex, A New Friend At School: Helping Students Understand And Accept Autism. Both books involve nonverbal examples of children with autism.

[Jay Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary:
This book is telling the point of view of a child with a friend that has Autism. She describes her friend and his characteristics, how he has really good hearing, good eyesight, and really strong. She talks about him not wanting to ever share and how he reacts in the changing of his schedule.

Analysis:
This would be a great book for your class to get them to understand that people with Autism are not weird but they are the same as everyone else and even though they have a disability that you should still be friends with them.

Application:
I would use this book in my classroom just to make the students aware that not everyone is the same on the outside but that doesn't mean that they should be treated differently. We should become friends with these people and not shun them or make fun of them.

[Tiffany Contreras · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! This book tells us of a friend with autism and his day-to-day challenges such as understanding other people's feelings. As well as that often time transitions and changes in routine are often hard on him. This book is helpful in informing readers that children with Asperger's are unique in their own ways. Such as learning through visual aids. This book is definitely intended to be a great resource in understanding a little more about those who have autistic spectrum disorder.

[Bella Noorbakhsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is about a friend with autism. They share his everyday challenges and obstacles he faces. They show how it's difficult for him to understand the feelings of others. He has difficulty with changes in his routine and day to day transitions. They also share that people with Aspergers are different and special in their own ways. They use visual aids to learn. i think it would be good for ages 4/5 and up.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The one I read was from 2002, I wonder if there are other editions. It’s decent.

[Aneesa]

Describes some of the typical characteristics autistic children share, and how their friends can understand, play with, and help them in class.

[Trista Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Friend with Autism is a Multicultural/Diversity genre book by Beverly Bishop. This book is written at the second or third grade level. Throughout the book, the narrator speaks about the characteristics of his friend that has autism. It explains why the friend may act a particular way and what he can do to help the friend. This book could be used to explain autism to younger students and be used in social skills development. There are no content concerns for this book.

[Valori Shellman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This helped me understand those with autism better. Wish I had it when working with children at church. Great reference to give to church leaders of autistic children.