Book In Review

      The Friendship Puzzle is a wonderful kids book written about and for those children who interact with other children who have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.  This story is about a young girl, Mackenzie, who goes to school with a young man that she tries to be friends with.  She notices that he doesn’t seem to have any friends and so she attempts to engage him but doesn’t understand why he doesn’t respond to her attempts at friendship. 

       There are some behaviors that the young man, Dylan, does that confuse Mackenzie Mackabee.  He sits and swings alone for long periods of time.  He covers his eyes and his ears for no apparent reason.  He doesn’t seem to smile or talk back when any other students talk to him.  One day, the kids are playing soccer when out of the blue, the young man runs and takes the ball and continues running.  The kids are upset thinking that he is trying to stop their game.

       Mackenzie consults her teacher about her questions regarding young Dylan’s behavior.  The teacher is thrilled to have an opportunity to explain that Dylan has Autism and how that affects him.  She explains that she is sure that Dylan isn’t trying to stop their game or trying to be a bully. 

       You will have to read the wonderful story to see how the situation is resolved and how a little understanding can go a long way to helping others to include someone who is a bit different from themselves.  This is a wonderfully written book and the colorful pictures on the pages help to show how students can learn about one another and appreciate their differences.   The emotions of the characters are reflected in the artwork so that the reader can empathize with the characters in the story. 

        I think this is a wonderful story book for any classroom setting; but, especially any classroom that may include special needs students who may be struggling to feel acceptance from their peers.   The author of the story is Julie Coe and the illustrator is Sondra Brassel; the story was inspired by the children of Jennifer Maloni.  I like the fact that these women intend for this book to make a difference in how children see another child who is a bit different from themselves and appreciate and include them in their social lives!   There are even some great activities to promote positive interaction between children who are living with Autism or any other challenge that sets them apart from their peers and others who are in their daily lives.   After all, everyone deserves the opportunity to be accepted for who they are and to feel like they fit or belong with others in the peer group.  Pick up this book and let it be an inspiration to teachers, students and families everywhere!

        The book can be purchased at:  http://www.amazon.com