April is Autism Awareness Month, and with these stories, readers can see themselves in the pages and learn the importance of understanding and compassion.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca

Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism in her younger years, during a time when little resources or care were provided for children living with autism. Thankfully, her grandmother helped secure the therapy she needed to thrive. In this book, readers follow Dr. Grandin’s journey from diagnosis to becoming one of the most powerful voices in modern science.

Benji, the Bad Day, and Me by Sally J. Pla

In this picture book, Sammy is having a bad day–and nothing seems to be going right for him. When he gets home, he sees that his little brother Benji, who is on the autism spectrum, is also struggling with having a bad day. Together, the boys find ways to turn their bad days around.

All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer

Zane the Zebra has autism, but he’s worried that his differences make him stand out from his peers in a bad way. With help from his mother, Zane learns that autism is one of his many qualities that make him unique–in a great way.

My Brother Otto by Meg Raby

Piper is a big sister to her little brother Otto, who is on the autism spectrum. In this children’s story, Piper and Otto experience what life is like for them each day, showcasing that while they may handle situations differently, understanding and kindness always wins.

A Day with No Words by Tiffany Hammond

Written by a mother living with autism who has two sons who also have autism, A Day with No Words follows the story of a mother and her child on a normal day where they communicate via a tablet. This story highlights what life can look like for those who use nonverbal communication.

Leah’s Voice by Lori DeMonia

For siblings of children with special needs, explaining their sibling’s needs to a friend or peer may be difficult, especially if they don’t understand. This short story focuses on those difficulties and shows the importance of inclusion and acceptance, as told through the eyes of two sisters who face these challenges.

My Friend Julia: A Sesame Street Book About Autism by Jennifer Cook

Your kiddos’ favorite friends from Sesame Street have a new friend for them to meet! Julia is a girl with autism who loves art and her family. In this sweet story, your kiddos will meet Julia while Elmo, Abby, and the rest of the crew share all the things that make her special. This book will be officially released in September.