Books that Celebrate & Explain Autism

Books have the power to foster understanding, build empathy, and celebrate the beauty of differences. When it comes to autism, stories can help children see themselves reflected in the pages, understand their autistic friends or siblings, and embrace neurodiversity with kindness and curiosity. 

Whether you’re looking for books that celebrate autism, explain it in a child-friendly way, or highlight autistic characters in everyday adventures, this list has something for everyone. These heartwarming and engaging stories create meaningful conversations and remind us all that there is beauty in our differences. Here are my top recommendations for children’s books that celebrate and explain autism!

All My Stripes by Shaina Rudolph: Zane the zebra feels like his classmates only see his “autism” stripe, not the many other qualities that make him special like his curiosity, honesty, and kindness. With his Mama’s guidance, he learns to embrace all his stripes, recognizing that his differences are part of what makes him uniquely wonderful. All My Stripes is a heartwarming story that helps young kids with autism celebrate their strengths while encouraging acceptance and understanding. Complete with a reading guide and resources for parents, it’s a beautiful reminder that every stripe adds to the brilliance of who we are.

Flap Your Hands by Steve Asbell: Flap Your Hands is a joyful celebration of stimming—the self-soothing movements many neurodivergent children use to manage big emotions. Through rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, four kids show how flapping, fluttering, kicking, and swaying help them feel calm and in control. This picture book by autistic author-illustrator Steve Asbell offers an empowering message: stimming is natural, healthy, and worth celebrating.

I See Things Differently by Pat Thomas  I See Things Differently is a gentle and accessible introduction for kids ages 4-7 to understand autism and how it affects those who have it. Written by a psychotherapist, this book encourages empathy, answers common questions, and helps children support autistic friends, classmates, or siblings. With engaging illustrations and thoughtful discussion prompts, it’s a great resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking to foster understanding and meaningful conversations about neurodiversity.

The Masterpiece by Jay Miletsky The Masterpiece is a playful and heartwarming tale of a group of paintbrushes working together to create something beautiful despite their differences. When some brushes don’t seem to follow the plan, is it misbehavior or just a different way of doing things? Without naming any specific challenges, this charming, rhyming story helps young readers (ages 2-9) recognize and appreciate neurodiversity, fostering kindness and inclusion. With a touch of rhythm and whimsy, The Masterpiece celebrates the idea that every unique stroke contributes to a greater, more beautiful whole.

My Brother Charlie  by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Peete: My Brother Charlie is a moving story about love, understanding, and the unique strengths of a boy with autism. Told from the perspective of his big sister, this touching tale highlights Charlie’s challenges, like making friends and expressing emotions, while celebrating his incredible talents, from his vast knowledge of presidents to his gift for playing the piano. Inspired by the Holly’s son, this beautifully written book, co-authored with her daughter, offers a warm and personal look at autism through the eyes of family.

Remarkable Remy by Melanie Heyworth:  Remarkable Remy is a warm and uplifting story that introduces young readers to an Autistic character in a positive and accessible way. Through the eyes of a loving friend, children learn how Remy’s brain works differently, making the world more interesting and full of new experiences. With simple, engaging language, this picture book celebrates neurodiversity, highlights the strengths of Autistic individuals, and shows the beauty of friendship built on understanding and acceptance. Perfect for readers aged 3 and up!

Looking for even more great books about autism for kids and adults? 📚 Check out All About Autism, a full reading guide packed with insightful and inspiring books for all ages! The guide was created by Kelly Hooker, autism mom and speech therapist, who helps out behind the scenes at Baby Feeding Development. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ngvAlfE4r89bexdbIt5Dd2mPkgRKi5wn/view?usp=sharing]

Books have a beautiful way of opening hearts and minds and when we share stories that embrace autism and neurodiversity, we’re planting seeds of empathy, respect, and connection. Whether you’re raising an autistic child, supporting a sibling, or simply wanting to raise kind and inclusive kids, these stories are a powerful tool. Let’s keep reading, learning, and celebrating the differences that make us all shine a little brighter. 

~Laney