Lori DeMonia, Author
Monique Turchan, Illustrator
Halo Publishing International, Fiction, 2013
Suitable for ages: 5-8 years
Themes: Autism Spectrum, Siblings, Differences, Compassion, Kindness, Special Needs
Opening: Logan stood at the window waiting with excitement. Her friend Abby was coming over for her very first play date. As soon as a car pulled in the drive, Logan yelled out, “She’s here!”
Synopsis: Logan looks forward to a play date with her friend Abby. She introduces Abby to her older sister Leah. They play a board game and invite Leah to play. But Leah leaves the room after her turn. Abby is upset that Leah won’t stay and play. Logan explains that her sister is uncomfortable around new people. Abby tells Logan that “next time we’ll play at my house.” Logan is sad about how her friend treats Leah and wonders why she doesn’t like her. Logan thinks about the similarities and differences between her and Leah. Her mother takes them to a movie and Leah has a melt down and ruins the day. Logan is angry and confused. Her parents explain that Leah has autism and that’s why she doesn’t talk much and gets upset easily. Logan tries to be patient and focuses on what Leah loves best, drawing pictures.
Why I like this book: Lori DeMonia knows first hand the confusion and challenge for a sibling who has an autistic sister or brother. It is a fictional story inspired by her daughters. The story is told with such simplicity that young children will be able to read and understand. Siblings don’t know how to explain it to their friends. They are embarrassed by their behavior and angry when they have meltdowns and ruin family outings. Leah’s Voice is an important story about accepting differences and treating others with respect and kindness. It is perfect for the classroom. Monique Turchan’s illustrations are colorful and lively. They beautifully capture the emotion of the story.
Awards: 2014 Temple Grandin Outstanding Literary Work of the Year award from the Autism Society of America, the Mom’s Choice Award, the New York Book Festival 2013 Honorable Mention Award, and the London Book Festival 2013 Honorable Mention Award.
Resources: Visit the website for Leah’s Voice to see Leah’s artwork and find printable pages. For information about autism visit the Austism Society website.
Reblogged this on Plum Tree Books Blog.
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Thank you for reblogging on Plum Tree Books! So kind of you!
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This looks great Patricia. You do such wonderful work to bring such books as these to the attention of those who are looking for something special.
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Yes, I love to find new books on autism — especially those with a different perspective.
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I love the cover. It sounds like a clever idea and a simple way of explaining autism.
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Yes, it is a good introduction books for kids. Very easy for them to understand.
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Looks good!
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It is a cute book with a helpful message about acceptance and kindess.
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Thank you – this looks wonderful and I am adding it to my summer reading list!
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Glad you enjoyed Lori’s book. I think it is important to introduce young children to subjects like this. You never know when they may have a friend with a sibling that has autism or any health issue.
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YES! My oldest has Asperger’s. He attended K-6 in a school that had many programs for kids on the Spectrum. His grade school did a fantastic job in making inclusion work and educating the entire school population. The kids who attended this school are consistently more understanding and considerate to others with different needs now that they are in a high school with kids who went to 3 other grade schools. Early education works both for kids on and off the Spectrum!
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Thank you for sharing. I’m so glad that inclusion worked for your son. It shows that if you work with the students at and early age, they are far more compassionate and understanding. I’m glad he had such support.
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What a great premise. SUCH a necessary piece of literature for so many children. Great choice.
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Yes I agree. This book is simply written so that children understand what a sibling goes through. Great classroom book!
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This sounds great, Pat!
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It really is an excllent sibling story. Thanks for tweeting!
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This looks excellent. Thank you for sharing it!
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It is an excellent story for siblings! Thanks for stopping!
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Looks like a cute book! Autism can be so confusing for kids. Family dynamics are such an important factor. My experience has been that siblings of little people with autism tend to be incredible little human beings!
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What an interesting observation! Thanks for the comment.
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Lovely book and review. Agree with rhythm, regarding siblings.
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Yes, I liked Rhythm’s comment too. Children who grow up with a sibling that has a problem, are very protective and loving kids. This is a great book!
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A great review for a great book! 🙂
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Thanks Erik! I’m glad you enjoyed the book!
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