5 Books Meant to Educate and Empower Black Autistic Children

For a while, autism was once thought to be a condition for white children. Meanwhile, Black children who didn’t fit in or behave the way others expected them to would be labeled as bad, problematic, or disobedient. However, a lot has changed since the first autistic diagnosis in  1943. Now, thanks to expanded research and broader definition under The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), one in 36 children are diagnosed with autism.  Additionally, more Black and Hispanic children are receiving autism screening partially due to a better understanding of the diagnosis.

Meanwhile, a 2023 study found that Black families are less likely to have access to resources and therapies meant to help manage autism. The same applies to books. Experts suggest introducing an autism diagnosis with children through books can help teach children to navigate social situations, advocate for their needs, feel empowered and express themselves.

It’s rare to find a book that addresses empowerment, social skills and better understanding of autism for Black children or written by Black authors. Read on to discover books covering life with autism that Black children can connect with. 

1. The Art of Autism

The Art of Autism is a one-of-a-kind book that allows you to go from reading about autism to doing something about it on your own terms. The book was written and illustrated by a Black homeschool family and features several activities, affirmations, and guided information to foster and affirm autism acceptance 

2. Same but different: Teen life on Autism Express

It can be troubling navigating social expectations while managing autism with increased age. Parents often share their concerns about the lack of help for autistic children once they are past elementary age. Same but different: Teen Life on the Autism Express, explores it all and how it applies to dating, parties, hormones and other parts of development. Written by Holly Robinson Peete and her children, readers may be able to see themselves in the experiences as the family documents their journey.

3. Since We’re Friends: an Autism Picture Book

Since We’re Friends: An Autism Picture Book is a go-to book teaching kids how to be a friend to those who process the world differently. It’s written from the perspective of a non-autistic child and how he’s learned to navigate their differences while having fun together. 
Though the book is not written by a Black author, parents, and children, the illustrations of a Black autistic child are a nice addition. Autistic and non-autistic children will appreciate an example of exercising acceptance through friendship. 

4.  The Adventures of Li Li – A Miracle at Bates Memorial

A Miracle at Bates Memorial covers a little girl’s experience with her symptoms of autism; especially when it comes to sensory overload. Together parents and children can learn about sensory issues and how to discuss them with friends and family. This book is the first of a series covering the varying types of sensory issues.

5. A Day with No Words

The New York Times Bestseller, A Day With No Words, follows the day-to-day life of a nonverbal child and his mother. With the help of facial expressions, body language recognition, and a tablet the book highlights that there is more than one way to speak. Each page features noteworthy illustrations that truly engage young minds.