Children’s books featuring neurodiversity

It's really important for children to see themselves and others in the books they read. Introducing children to different lived experiences helps them develop empathy and understanding, as well as an appreciation for others who may not be the same as they are. Use these brilliant titles to explore neurodiversity and give those who may be neurodiverse a greater sense of self as they read.

Pablo Picks His Shoes by Pablo

Pablo thinks differently, he has autism and uses his creativity to understand the world around him. Pablo draws the Book Animals, and together they help each other face the world with confidence. Pablo and the Book Animals worry that Pablo's shoes will feel left out if they don't come on a trip to Granny's house. What clever solution will Pablo and his resourceful friends think of this time?

A Different Sort of Normal

The beautiful true story of one girl’s journey growing up autistic – and the challenges she faced in the ‘normal’ world. Told through the author’s remarkable words, and just as remarkable illustrations, this is the book for those who’ve never felt quite right in the ‘normal’ world. Very important, very funny and very informative. This is the book the world needs right now.

The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd

Ted and Kat’s cousin Salim steps into a pod on the London Eye, but when it comes back around, he’s completely disappeared. Now Ted and Kat must follow a trail of clues across London, whilst time ticks dangerously by . . .

The Extraordinary Life of Greta Thunberg by Devika Jina

Greta Thunberg is an activist best known for calling attention to the devastating effects of climate change on our planet. A bold voice even against people that want to silence her, Greta has become a source of inspiration for millions of people who want to work towards tackling the climate crisis. From taking part in school strikes and owning that her Asperger syndrome is her superpower, to crossing the Atlantic Ocean in a powerful stand against carbon emissions, this is the incredible story of a schoolgirl who is changing the world.

The Curious Incident of the Dog In the Night-time by Mark Haddon

Christopher is 15 and lives in Swindon with his father. He has Asperger's Syndrome, a form of autism. He is obsessed with maths, science and Sherlock Holmes but finds it hard to understand other people. When he discovers a dead dog on a neighbour's lawn he decides to solve the mystery and write a detective thriller about it. As in all good detective stories, however, the more he unearths, the deeper the mystery gets - for both Christopher and the rest of his family. (Suitable for readers aged 13+)