My Brother Sammy

About the author: Becky Edwards is a teacher who has specialised in teaching autistic children. She lives in Chichester with her husband and two young children. About the illustrator: David Armitage has been working as an illustrator for almost thirty years. His most well known books are the Light House Keeper books which are published by Scholastic and have been in print for over twenty years. David lives in Sussex and divides his time between fine art, illustrating and publishing the schools magazine Aquilla.

PreSchool-Grade 2-The narrator of this picture book longs for a brother who can talk to him, build towers with him, and join his friends at play. His autistic brother Sammy mimics his speech, knocks down his building blocks, and lies alone on the grass staring at the leaves on trees. When the older boy tries doing and seeing things Sammy's way, a special relationship develops between them. Somewhat indistinct watercolor illustrations, many double-paged, enhance the sensitive tone of the story. A good choice for sharing with children who have "special" siblings and for discussions on feelings.
Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.