Reviews for 'What About Me?'
eSpectrum, August 2006
Autism Victoria (Inc)
Wantirna Heights School in Melbourne has recently launched a new book written by staff members Athanasia Koutsis and Gerda de Clerq. Titled What About Me? This outstanding book is for the junior primary aged reader who has a brother or sister, or perhaps a cousin or friend with autism.
The text is beautifully laid out and illustrated by the acclaimed illustrator Richard Galbraith.
The writers have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure their young readers feel valued and empowered. The message is simple – we are all different in our own ways, and we are all entitled to respect and understanding.
www.autismvictoria.org.au
Autism News, December 2006
Autism Association of Western Australia (Inc)
'What About Me' is likely to be well received, not only by siblings but by peers, parents and teachers. Much of the appeal of the book is due to the animated style and cartoon format, with Spike, the wise but quirky dog, acting as a guide. The complexities of autism are addressed in a fun way, but without downplaying the difficulties that a sibling may face.
The book deals clearly and succinctly with the day-to-day difficulties for a child with autism, including those relating to social impairment, communication deficit, sensory issues and coping with change.
Siblings are likely to relate knowingly to issues described as "totally embarrassing". Memories of truly embarrassing moments with a brother or sister with autism, could be evoked for readers. But in this book we are made to smile. Spike points out that we all do embarrassing things from time to time.
Siblings are invited to have their say, to make a list of things that "describe my brother or sister". Permission is granted to siblings to state negatives, if that's how they feel. But Spike also points to ways that children can have fun with their brother or sister, with an aptly illustrated reminder that "we're all different... and we're all special".
This is a fun and informative book for primary age children The cartoon format, and a text that is neither judgmental nor sentimental, make this a book that could be shared with enjoyment amongst peers and adults.
Department of Education, Victoria
Jim Watterson
Regional Director, Eastern Metropolitan Region
Newsletter No 8, June 2006
Recently I was delighted when presented by Lois Thomsen, Principal, Wantirna Heights School, with an innovative publication “What About Me?” designed for the brothers and sisters of children with autism. The authors, Athanasia Koutsis, Gerda De Clercq, and Richard Galbraith have written and illustrated a wonderfully sensitive and insightful resource, which will assist not only the siblings and families of autistic children to understand their special characteristics and needs, but will prove to be a most useful resource for teachers.
I found it to be an outstanding publication, which would be most helpful for all who live and work with autistic children. Congratulations to the authors, and Wantirna Heights School, for their foresight in producing and promoting this book.
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