A Is for Autism, F is for Friend: A Kid's Book on Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism is a delight. Author Joanna Keating-Velasco's simple, heartfelt book touches on the importance of breaking down barriers to pave the way for unique friendships between children who are not that different after all. She has explained a complex disability in a way that is easy to understand.

The book provides a unique glimpse of life from the perspective of Chelsea, an 11-year-old girl with severe autism. Social situations, like being out on the playground, make it hard for her to get to know her peers. She discusses issues of eye contact, personal space and echolalia.

As Chelsea attempts to make it easier for others to understand her condition, she identifies the many commonalities that she and her schoolmates share. She teaches us that, with sensitivity and a desire to learn from others, we can build friendships with children who have autism.

Each chapter of this short paperback book only lasts a few pages. Even though it looks like it would be geared specifically toward middle school students, many teachers would benefit from what's inside.

As more students with special needs are mainstreamed into regular education classrooms, teachers need a confidence-booster when it comes time for them to work with children who have autism. This book can serve as a good start toward helping them understand the challenges faced daily by this population.

A section called "Talk Time" appears at the end of each chapter. The section is comprised of questions geared to encouraging students to talk about the issues that affect children with autism. The thought-provoking questions will motivate typical children to look at their peers with special needs with more compassion, dignity and respect.

In addition to a glossary that explains technical terms, the book provides a resource section of books, DVDs and Web site links.

Bob Roza is president and owner of Integrative Speech Inc. in Westchester, IL.

The book is available from Autism Asperger Publishing Company, online: www.asperger.net. Price: $10.95.