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Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)

A guide to understanding autism for young readers

Niamh Garvey author Rebecca Burgess illustrator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Jessica Kingsley Publishers

Published:18th Jul '24

Should be back in stock very soon

Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means) cover

This engaging guide for 8-12-year-olds explores the meaning of autism, helping young readers understand their unique experiences and feelings in a friendly way.

Written by autistic author Niamh Garvey, Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means) serves as an engaging guide for children aged 8-12. With vibrant illustrations accompanying the text, this book aims to demystify autism, providing a clear understanding of what it means to be autistic. It addresses common questions and concerns that young readers may have, making it a valuable resource for self-discovery and awareness.

The book invites readers to explore their own identities by discussing the differences between sensory seekers and avoiders. It elaborates on why some tasks may come easily while others are more challenging, helping readers to navigate their feelings, both big and small. By presenting this information in a relatable manner, Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means) encourages children to embrace their unique traits and experiences.

Ultimately, this guide empowers young readers to understand and celebrate their individuality. It offers insights that not only foster self-acceptance but also equip them with interesting facts to share with friends and family. This book is a must-have for any child seeking to understand themselves better and for parents looking to support their children in their journey of self-discovery.

This is a fantastic book; a perfect combination of Niamh's wonderfully clear, practical, affirming information and Rebecca's gorgeous illustrations. It is a must read for children and young people, and indeed anyone who wants to learn about autism and being autistic. -- Dr Micaela Connolly, senior educational and child psychologist
Being autistic and having a good understanding of your own authentic autistic self is as valuable a gift you could ever give yourself - and this wonderful, realistic, optimistic, artistic book is a resource that could aid you towards that glorious understanding of self that all autistic people deserve. -- Dr Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism, Sheffield Hallam University
An informative guide for young Autistic people wishing to understand themselves better. Written in Niamh's friendly and gentle tone, it's a safe companion for this important journey of self-discovery. -- Claire O’Neill, Autistic author and teacher.
An exceptional resource. Accessible and easy to understand, this is a must read for autistic children (and for everyone else!). Looking at areas of strength and areas of challenge as a point of fact, Niamh and Bex both capture and affirm autistic experience beautifully. I can't recommend it enough. -- Sharon McCarthy, Neurodivergent lecturer, advocate, author and parent
I absolutely loved this book. I think autistic kids will gain a great deal from reading this. It is strongly focussed on strengths and inclusion and supporting autistic kids to be proud of who they are. Highly recommended. -- Yenn Purkis, Autistic advocate and author of books for autistic kids.

This terrific book explains what being autistic actually means. It's written with clarity, warmth and humour and the illustrations are exceptional.

A wonderful book that will help every child (and adult) understand what 'being autistic' means.

-- Sarah Webb, children’s author and book reviewer

ISBN: 9781805011712

Dimensions: 228mm x 152mm x 16mm

Weight: 200g

160 pages

Illustrated edition