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Yoey Does It Her Way

Yoey Does It Her Way follows Yoey through her everyday joys. The playground. The swings. Swimming and frozen yogurt. Picture books and music. Bedtime moments. This picture book shows a child who learns at her own pace and keeps going. Her family cheers her on. The story ends with a clear message. Yoey is more than her challenges, and she is proud of who she is.

The writing is simple and direct. That works well here because the book is for young children. I liked how the focus stays on what Yoey loves instead of what she struggles with. It keeps the tone positive. I love how it treats learning differences as one small piece of a whole kid. That line stuck with me. It feels kind and true. The pride from her brother and parents were emotional moments that young readers will be able to see through the emotive images. The ending note for adults adds depth and meaning.

The illustrations on each page are bright and colorful and full of life. Yoey appears in many different scenes, like the playground, the beach, and bedtime, and each one feels cheerful and warm. I loved how her smile, focus, and excitement change from page to page and help tell the story without many words.

I would recommend this children’s book to families with young children. Especially families who want stories about inclusion and kindness. It would be great for classrooms and therapy spaces, too. It feels best for early readers and read-aloud time. This book celebrates kids being themselves.

Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0G54CW1G6

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Allan Learns to Talk

Readers meet Allan, a five-year-old autistic boy who does not speak. His silence often leaves him overwhelmed; when the words simply won’t come, he collapses into tears and screams, unable to express what he needs. His sister Ashley worries constantly, unsure how to bridge the gap between her world and Allan’s.

Everything shifts when Allan begins working with a speech therapist at school. She introduces him to sign language, and the discovery feels life-changing. At last, he has a way to share his thoughts. His family, eager to support him, learns to sign alongside him. As Allan gains this new voice, they notice a remarkable change; he glows with happiness.

Allan Learns to Talk by Sharon Austin offers a gentle, motivating, and deeply inspiring story for young readers, especially those who have siblings or friends on the autism spectrum. Austin’s portrayal of Allan’s experience feels authentic and compassionate, allowing readers to view the world through his eyes. The illustrations elevate the narrative, capturing Allan’s intelligence, creativity, and vibrant imagination with striking clarity.

Equally moving is the family’s unwavering commitment to understanding him. Their willingness to learn sign language enriches the story and highlights the power of support and connection. The book deserves a place in school libraries, pediatric offices, and anywhere children and families seek stories that reflect real challenges and real hope.

As Allan grows more confident, spoken words gently emerge, an especially touching moment occurs when he says, “Mom.” Many parents will recognize their own journeys in these pages, making this book both relatable and heartwarming.

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