Through the Eyes of Me

Author: Jon Roberts
Illustrator: Hannah Rounding
Publisher: Graffeg

Narrated by Kyra, a vibrant and creative little girl with autism, the story explores the world through her eyes. Written by Jon Roberts as a dedication to his daughter, it is hoped that anybody whose lives have been affected by the joys and challenges of autism may be able to connect and identify with the story.

The words have been chosen to be easy to understand; some words and phrases are highlighted in different colours (an adult reader could explore just these words with a very young child or anybody that finds processing lots of speech a challenge).

Kyra describes the things she loves (running, jumping, spinning around, sorting and grouping toys, chicken nuggets and ice cream, pulling funny faces in the mirror, playing with friends), and what she finds challenging (making eye contact, sitting still, eating vegetables, communicating with friends).

While no two children with autism are the same, Kyra describes many traits and behaviours which are common among people on the autistic spectrum, and readers who have been affected by autism will no doubt recognise a good few featured in the book. The sketched illustrations washed in pleasant pastel colours breathe life into Kyra’s story and help to reinforce the emotions she is experiencing.

The messages we found in this book:

Acknowledgement:

Many things are challenging for children on the autistic spectrum, but they also have many positive traits. Kyra is loving and creative with an infectious laugh and a smile that makes everyone happy.
Just because Kyra finds it difficult communicating and making eye contact, doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy playing with friends.
The book acknowledges that some of Kyra’s behaviour might be challenging for other children (she enjoys ripping up books).

Guidance:

The book gently introduces some typical traits and behaviours that children on the autistic spectrum may display including: stacking and ordering objects (to give a sense of comfort and control), being physically very active/finding it difficult to keep still, not making eye contact and finding communication challenging, being sensitive to loud noises and certain food flavours and tastes, walking on tip-toes.
Kyra ‘doesn’t quite understand life’s dangers’ and it is important that her parents are around to keep her safe.
Kyra finds it difficult to know when people are talking to her. She suggests that you say her name before speaking to her to help with this.