Henry, Like Always

Gr 1-4–Henry (A Friend for Henry!), who readers might infer is on the autism spectrum, likes his classroom and everything that’s always there, especially the calendar that shows the day’s activities. It’s always the same. On Monday, Mrs. Tanaka announces that there is going to be a change to the schedule—a parade on Friday! Henry’s not happy about it. He wants things to stay the same as always. On Tuesday, the class makes posters for the parade, and on Wednesday, they pick out their instruments. As the day of the parade arrives, Henry finds a way to participate in the event that allows him to stay true to himself. This book gives readers on the spectrum a chance to identify with Henry and offers readers who are not a glimpse of Henry’s inner world. This will inspire and empower all children to find their own way to make any situation work for them. The beginning chapter book’s illustrations are black and white with blue accents that will draw readers’ eyes. Artwork features diverse characters of varied skin tones and facial features.