April is World Autism Month. The following middle-grade books celebrate neurodiversity and differences both through nonfiction and fiction.
THE VIEW FROM THE VERY BEST HOUSE IN TOWN, by Meera Trehan, Walker Books US, Feb. 8, 2022, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)
Sam and Asha. Asha and Sam. Their friendship is so long established, they take it for granted. Just as Asha takes for granted that Donnybrooke, the mansion that sits on the highest hill in Coreville, is the best house in town.
But when Sam is accepted into snobbish Castleton Academy as an autistic “Miracle Boy,” he leaves Asha, who is also autistic, to navigate middle school alone. He also leaves her wondering if she can take anything for granted anymore. Because soon Sam is spending time with Prestyn, Asha’s nemesis, whose family owns Donnybrooke and, since a housewarming party gone wrong, has forbidden Asha to set foot inside.
Who is Asha without Sam? And who will she be when it becomes clear that Prestyn’s interest in her friend isn’t so friendly?
Told from the points of view of Asha, Sam, and Donnybrooke itself, this suspenseful and highly original debut explores issues of ableism and classism as it delves into the mysteries of what makes a person a friend and a house a home. —Synopsis provided by Walker Books US
“An unusual, insightful exploration of what makes strong foundations in houses, families, and friendships.” —Review from Kirkus
THE MANY MYSTERIES OF THE FINKEL FAMILY, by Sarah Kapit, Dial Books, March 23, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)
When twelve-year-old Lara Finkel starts her very own detective agency, FIASCCO (Finkel Investigation Agency Solving Consequential Crimes Only), she does not want her sister, Caroline, involved. She and Caroline don’t have to do everything together. But Caroline won’t give up, and when she brings Lara the firm’s first mystery, Lara relents, and the questions start piling up.
But Lara and Caroline’s truce doesn’t last for long. Caroline normally uses her tablet to talk, but now she’s busily texting a new friend. Lara can’t figure out what the two of them are up to, but it can’t be good. And Caroline doesn’t like Lara’s snooping—she’s supposed to be solving other people’s crimes, not spying on Caroline! As FIASCCO and the Finkel family mysteries spin out of control, can Caroline and Lara find a way to be friends again? —Synopsis provided by Dial Books
“[Kapit] emphasizes a diversity of experiences—of autism, Jewish traditions (Ashkenazi and Sephardic), and family and school life—showing that there’s no single iteration of any identity while highlighting a close-knit family that prioritizes making amends and learning to recover.” —Review from Publisher’s Weekly
THE OUTDOOR SCIENTIST: THE WONDER OF OBSERVING THE NATURAL WORLD, by Temple Grandin PhD, Philomel Books, April 5, 2022, Paperback, $9.99 (ages 8-12)
Now in paperback. From New York Times bestselling author and world-renowned scientist and autism spokesperson Temple Grandin comes a book about exploring the world around us, asking questions, and making sense of what we see — with 40 fun outdoor activities that promote independent thinking, which kids can enjoy all year round!
What are the aerodynamics of skipping stones or the physics of making sandcastles? Do birds use GPS to navigate their migratory routes?
In this book, Dr. Temple Grandin, an inventor and world-renowned scientist, introduces readers to geologists, astrophysicists, oceanographers, and many other scientists who unlock the wonders of the natural world. She shares her childhood experiences and observations, whether on the beach, in the woods, working with horses, or gazing up at the night sky. This book explores all areas of nature and gives readers the tools to discover even more on their own.
With forty projects to give readers a deeper understanding of the world around them, from the depths of space to their own backyard, this is a perfect read for budding scientists, inventors, and creators! —Synopsis provided by Philomel Books
“[Grandin] demonstrates how curiosity can propel and fulfill a human being to learn all kinds of things. … An invitation to young readers to observe, enjoy, and learn about the world around us all.” —Review from Kirkus
Copyright © 2022 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.
