Abigail Balfe Books

This book offers a fresh perspective on growing up different and not understanding why, describing childhood from the perspective of someone diagnosed with autism in adulthood. It’s easy to read but (like many of the best books), difficult to classify being partly autobiography and partly a thorough informative guide to autism and wider neurodiversity issues. The bright, attractive illustrations along with the chatty style make the book very accessible. It’s marketed for 8-12-year-olds, but would also be a useful read for older teens. It might be particularly attractive to neurodiverse children, whether or not they have a diagnosis yet, but it has many important messages about acceptance of self, confidence and wellbeing that are applicable much more widely. The way the author reflects on her experiences in childhood makes this a very hopeful and helpful book, particularly for those children struggling with school and friendships and wondering whether things will ever feel less challenging. It’s a lovely celebration of difference and individuality.