Jo’s Special Gifts

Written by Mariam Shapera

Illustrated by Lorna Humphreys

This book is written and illustrated by parents of an autistic child. As a special educator who has worked with dozens of autistic children, I highly recommend this book both to autistic parents and teachers and also to those seeking to understand autism.

Jo is a beautiful child who is autistic. He has a special interest in music and space, both areas in which he excels. Jo learns differently. He sometimes shouts out his words and needs to have a structured routine in which to function. Jo tries his best to fit in socially though he sometimes needs adaptations.

I liked the way the illustrator portrays children with disabilities in a wheelchair and a child wearing noise-cancelling earphones. The parents support Jo with unconditional love. Every child deserves to learn in the way that best suits his talents and capabilities.

Another valuable part of the book comes at the end when the author shares tips about communication, socialization, and the sensory needs of autistic children, which are a valuable source of knowledge for any adult working with an autistic child.

Highly recommended as a read aloud discussion book for preschool and elementary school children.

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