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Her Beautiful Way of Communicating
Shining As I Am follows a young autistic boy as he shares his life from his point of view, exploring what it means to be human, different, misunderstood, and still deeply loved. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Shining As I Am came from my middle daughter, who is autistic and was nonverbal in her early years. As a mother, I witnessed how often the world misunderstood her silence, her sensory needs, and her beautiful way of communicating without words. I also saw how hard she worked just to be accepted in spaces that weren’t built with her in mind.
Her strength, her light, and her quiet resilience moved me to write a story that would speak not just to her—but to every child who feels different, unseen, or unheard. I wanted to create a book that could gently teach the world how to embrace neurodiversity, while also reminding children like her that they don’t have to change to belong.
Shining As I Am was born out of love, advocacy, and a deep hope for a more compassionate world. It’s a message to my daughter—and children like her—that their light doesn’t need to be dimmed to fit in. They already shine, just as they are.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
At the heart of Shining As I Am is the belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are. One of the most important ideas I wanted to share is that being different is not something to fix—it’s something to celebrate.
I also wanted to help bridge the communication gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical children by offering simple but powerful affirmations of identity, kindness, and inclusion. It was important for me to show that confidence and belonging grow when children feel safe being themselves.
Most of all, I wanted every reader—especially those who feel overlooked or “too different”—to hear this message clearly: You are enough. You are worthy. You shine in your own beautiful way.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Siddhant Jumde?
The illustration process for Shining As I Am was a deeply collaborative and intentional journey. I worked closely with the incredibly talented Siddhant Jumde from Bear With Us Production for nearly eight months. We poured our hearts into every detail—ensuring that each expression, color, and scene honored the children the story represents, especially those who are neurodivergent. Siddhant didn’t just illustrate the book—he connected with its message. His empathy and artistry helped bring the story to life in a way that speaks to both the eye and the soul.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Shining As I Am wasn’t originally planned as part of a series—but the idea of expanding it into one is definitely in my heart. There’s so much more to explore around self-worth, inclusion, and the unique ways children shine in this world.
While it may grow into a series in the future, for now, I’m excited to share that another book is on the horizon! It will continue in the spirit of uplifting children, encouraging self-acceptance, and gently guiding readers to see the beauty in themselves and others. I can’t wait to share more soon!
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Shining As I Am is a heartfelt story that helps children understand autism through the eyes of a young child who experiences the world in a unique way. With gentle words and colorful illustrations, this book explores the beauty of differences, teaching patience, acceptance, and empathy.
Perfect for children, Parents, and educators, Shining As I am fosters a deeper understanding of what it means to embrace difference in ability and to be kind and supportive.
Shining As I Am
Makida Arshi’s Shining As I Am is a heartwarming picture book that tells the story of Adam, a young autistic boy, from his own point of view. We follow Adam from birth through childhood as he navigates milestones, struggles, and joys with the unwavering love and support of his family and friends. The story captures his challenges—like sensory sensitivity, delayed speech, and social differences—but also celebrates his strengths, including drawing and visual learning. Most of all, it highlights what it feels like to be truly loved, understood, and accepted just as you are.
The writing is gentle and honest. It doesn’t try to sugarcoat autism, but it doesn’t frame it as something broken either. That balance is tough, and Arshi absolutely nails it. The rhyming lines give the story a soothing, musical rhythm that feels almost like a lullaby—perfect for bedtime reading but deep enough to start real conversations. The repetition of the phrase “as I am” builds a strong emotional thread. You can feel the compassion baked into every single page.
The illustrations by Siddhant Jumde are beautiful. They’re bright, expressive, and full of warmth. But what really stuck with me was the message. This isn’t just a picture book about autism. It’s a story about being human—about being different, misunderstood, and still deeply loved. It reminds you how powerful patience and kindness can be. There’s this bravery in Adam’s voice that made me want to be more aware and more empathetic. And the way it weaves in other kids on the spectrum with unique strengths and challenges—that really drives home the message that autism isn’t one-size-fits-all.
I’d recommend Shining As I Am to just about everyone—parents, teachers, kids, even adults who need a gentle reminder of how to love better. It’s especially great for families with autistic children, but honestly, it’s for anyone who believes in kindness. It’s the kind of book that leaves a little glow in your heart after you close it. Simple words, big feelings, and a whole lot of truth—this children’s book shines, just like Adam does.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0DRSK3LC1
LITERARY TITAN 