“This book touched me not just as a pediatrician, but also as the mom of an autistic son. Julia Cook has truly captured the beauty and uniqueness of these kids. I will be recommending this book to patients, colleagues, family members, friends, teachers, or anyone who wants to understand more about autism.” – Dr. Melissa Reinhardt, Pediatrician
"When my son was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, people didn’t talk about autism much at all... Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts is the book I needed ten years ago... I found myself nodding wildly in agreement over one of the first passages in the book "My memory is amazing - when it comes to things I am interested in." SO, so true. The boy in this story, Zak, has an obsession with watches – he owns 379 of them, and can tell you every detail about them. This was Pablo, my son, with fire alarms a few years ago. Like the boy in the story, Pablo has moved on from one obsession to another... Zak goes on to explain the reasons behind lots of special things – super sensitivity to sounds and smells, hand flapping, social blunders…and with every explanation, Zak’s teachers and parents include reasons why these weird behaviors are OKAY... This book would be such an asset for every classroom and school library!" - Laura Neiman, blogger
"This was my first book that deals with autism. It is a children’s book with the intent of educating children about the struggles that other kids deal with each day. After reading it, I am honestly and enthusiastically recommending it, as it encourages compassion and understanding for those who need it the most. Uniquely Wired introduces you to a little boy named Zak who has Autism. Throughout the book, Zak explains that when he is really into a subject which he loves, such as watches, he knows anything and everything about them ... When he loves something, he lives and breathes it. He also shares with you how Autism effects his relationships with other people ... In the back of the book, there are tips which are great for parents and teachers or anyone who wants to grow their understanding of how to become a better companion for someone with Autism. I really love #9 Celebrate the Wins. This is very important because some things such as fastening a seat belt or getting dressed may come easier to many children, but can be difficult tasks for those who struggle with Autism. These moments are so important to celebrate. Encourage them and let them know they are awesome for what they just achieved. This book is so amazing to help educate children on other's that have Autism." - Amber MacDonald, blogger @ Dragonfly Sweetnest
04/01/2018
K-Gr 4—Instead of depicting autism as a disadvantage, Cook portrays Zak as having many gifts to share due to his "uniquely wired brain." Zak has many features that are typical of people with autism, including avoiding eye contact, rapid body movements, an incredible memory, deep passions (trains, watches), and a tendency to repeat phrases. The people in his life, from siblings to teachers, support him and thank him for the patience he teaches them. In creating a positive context around autism and highlighting Zak's similarities and differences, neurotypical students can gain a new perspective. DuFalla's bright cartoon pictures match the upbeat tone of the text and will engage readers. A list of tips for understanding children who are "uniquely wired" is also included. VERDICT A helpful tool for teachers and parents to help foster empathy and understanding among students.—Kathryn Justus, Renbrook School, West Hartford, CT
