After completing my first children’s book, A Is for Autism, F Is for Friend, I felt that I needed to expand on that concept beyond an introduction. As an instructional aide working with students who have autism and other disabilities, I have come across so many typical schoolmates who don’t understand what autism is and how to best interact with these wonderful individuals. Targeting an upper elementary through middle school audience, our character Nicholas Hansen came to life. He led me on a journey through his first year in middle school which, for most, is intimidating on its own. Adding the fact that he has autism made his transition even more overwhelming. However, Nick is lucky to have family, staff and classmates supporting him making his journey not only easier, but more fulfilling.

So many typical peers never take the opportunity to interact with students who have autism (especially severe autism), because of the barriers that autism sometimes creates. By introducing Nicholas, I have tried to demystify some of the behaviors and challenges that students with autism experience while also opening up a discussion about autism.

I have done my best to affectionately present this fictional character created from a rainbow of students with whom I have worked. They are my inspiration and my heroes. My hope is that In His Shoes will increase autism awareness and possibly open up some opportunities for wonderful and unique friendships.