A Friend for Henry

Publisher: Chronicle Books

Henry’s keen to make friends in his class. However, it’s proving a bit of a challenge and he’s getting increasingly frustrated with his peers.

There’s the girl who waves her hands right in his face, the boy who runs off with the mat that Henry has put in the "right" place, even a child who digs up worms. Plus, people get cross with him for doing things that he thinks are kind. However, with time, Henry learns that friendship is possible and the benefits are definitely mutual.

This is a gentle story of a boy who often struggles to understand the behaviour of those around him. The author’s own experience has given her a well-defined awareness of some of the challenges and experiences that children on the autistic spectrum can encounter. However, autism is not referred to directly and the trials of trying to find friendship are undoubtedly universal.

All young readers will empathise with Henry and find reassurance in the book’s ultimate message of hope.

More books like this

Be Kind

Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Jen Hill

Tanisha is so embarrassed when she spills grape juice on her dress at school, but the little girl telling the story thinks of lots of ways she can show kindness to someone in trouble. A wonderful picture book that reminds us that being kind is one of the simplest and most profound things we can do.

Read more about Be Kind

King of the Classroom

Author: Derrick Barnes Illustrator: Vanessa Brantley-Newton

This wonderfully empowering picture book for little ones not only assuages their possible fears about starting school or nursery but models a celebratory approach to the big day with an upbeat story about being confident.

Read more about King of the Classroom

Share this book with your friends

Use our Bookfinder to discover the perfect children's books for every age...