What Happens When Someone Has Autism?

April 1, 2020
Grades 3-5 As views on autism evolve, this entry in the KidHaven Health Library series (6 titles) introduces the disability to early elementary readers, describing the more common traits among autistic people and focusing largely on social, communication, and sensory struggles. It also touches on the scientific community's perspective and describes helpful therapies, with large text and sharp design providing a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, rather than presenting the idea of neurodiversity, the text uses language equating autism to disease ( symptoms, treatment, the lack of a cure ) and promotes questionable practices (applied behavioral analysis) and harmful organizations (Autism Speaks) without context or caution. Still, Kawa writes?with crystal clear prose?through a lens of acceptance, understanding, and support, emphasizing that autistic experiences vary widely across a spectrum and that autistic folks can live full, successful lives.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)