Just Right for You: A Story About Autism by Melanie Heyworth. Written by an autistic author, this gentle, affirming picture book celebrates the unique strengths and ways of being that come with autism. It helps children understand that being different is not only okay but something to be proud of.

 

Why Johnny Doesn't Flap: NT is okay! by Clay Morton and Gail Morton. Through a humorous role-reversal, this story presents a neurotypical boy from the perspective of an autistic narrator, encouraging empathy and challenging assumptions in a playful and respectful way.

 

Lulu Is A Rhinoceros by Jason Flom, Allison Flom and Sophie Corrigan. This charming story uses metaphor to explore identity and being misunderstood. While not explicitly about neurodivergence, it offers a relatable message for children learning to embrace who they are, even when others don’t understand.

 

Me and My PDA: A Guide to Pathological Demand Avoidance for Young People by Glòria Durà-Vilà and Tamar Levi. This accessible guide helps children with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) understand their experiences and develop positive coping tools. It’s written with clarity, compassion, and strong visuals to support self-awareness and advocacy.

 

A Different Kind of Normal: My Real-Life COMPLETELY True Story About Being Unique by Abigail Balfe. Part memoir, part guidebook, this graphic novel-style book offers an honest, funny, and deeply relatable exploration of growing up neurodivergent. Abigail Balfe shares her journey with warmth and humor, making it perfect for older kids and teens.

 

The Brain Building Books by Dr. Liz Angoff. These interactive books support kids in understanding their unique learning profiles using developmentally appropriate language and engaging visuals. Dr. Angoff’s work empowers children to celebrate their strengths and talk confidently about their brains.

 

Welcome to the Autistic Community by Autistic Self-Advocacy Network. This free, downloadable resource introduces newly identified autistic youth to the concept of neurodiversity in a welcoming, affirming way. Authored by autistic adults, it centers lived experience and offers helpful insights into community and identity.

 

The Awesome Autistic Go-To Guide: A Practical Handbook for Autistic Teens and Tweens by Yenn Purkis and Tanya Masterman. Packed with practical tips, affirmations, and real-life reflections, this guide supports autistic young people in understanding themselves and navigating the world with pride and self-compassion.

 

The Spectrum Girl’s Survival Guide: How to Grow Up Awesome and Autistic by Siena Castellon. Written by an autistic teen advocate, this book provides encouragement, tips, and validation for autistic girls and non-binary youth. It promotes confidence, self-understanding, and community connection.

 

The Autism-Friendly Guide to Periods by Robyn Steward. Robyn Steward, an autistic author and educator, offers a straightforward, sensory-considerate guide to menstruation. This book is a valuable resource for young people who benefit from clear, supportive information.

 

Wiggles, Stomps and Squeezes Calm My Jitters Down by Lindsay Rowe Parker. This lively and affirming picture book explores sensory regulation through the eyes of a neurodivergent child. It validates movement, stimming, and self-soothing as essential parts of thriving.

 

My Wandering Dreaming Mind by Merriam Sarcia Saunders and Tammie Lyon. A beautifully written story that supports children with attention differences, this book encourages self-acceptance and helps young readers understand how their creative, active minds work.

 

A Day With No Words by Tiffany Hammond. Told from the perspective of a non-speaking autistic child, this powerful book celebrates alternative communication. It honors the bond between parent and child and affirms all forms of expression.

 

My Shadow is Pink by Scott Stuart. This vibrant picture book supports children in embracing their gender identity and expression. While not about neurodivergence specifically, it offers messages of pride, authenticity, and unconditional acceptance that many neurodivergent kids connect with.

 

My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart. Building on the themes of identity and inclusion, this companion book challenges gender binaries and celebrates being true to yourself. It can be particularly affirming for neurodivergent children exploring complex identities.

 

Queerly Autistic: The Ultimate Guide for LGBTQIA+ Teens on the Spectrum by Erin Ekins. This guide compassionately supports teens at the intersection of neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ identity. Written by an autistic, queer author, it offers practical advice and heartfelt encouragement.

 

The Autistic Trans Guide to Life by Yenn Purkis and Wenn Lawson. Blending lived experience and professional insight, this book offers thoughtful, affirming guidance for trans and gender-diverse autistic youth. It’s a powerful tool for navigating identity with strength and clarity.