A 2020 Schneider Family Honor Book

A heartwarming picture book that explores the experience of autism and the power of friendship.

In Classroom Six, second left down the hall, Henry has been on the lookout for a friend. A friend who shares. A friend who listens. Maybe even a friend who likes things to stay the same and all in order, as Henry does. But on a day full of too close and too loud, when nothing seems to go right, will Henry ever find a friend--or will a friend find him? With insight and warmth, this heartfelt story from the perspective of a boy on the autism spectrum celebrates the everyday magic of friendship.

BACK TO SCHOOL: Familiar school scenarios--from new schedules to making new friends--are portrayed with humor and understanding in this sweet picture book that will appeal to and reassure any child starting or continuing in school.

DIVERSE STORIES: Representing neurodivergent kids is a vital aspect of expanding diverse representation across books for all ages. A Friend for Henry provides a mirror and a window for kids on the autism spectrum and their friends to see themselves in the stories they read.

AN AWARD-WINNING TEAM AND A BELOVED CHARACTER: Jenn Bailey and Mika Song were awarded a Schneider Family Honor Award for A Friend for Henry. Now, fans of this award-winning picture book can grow along with Henry! Henry's story continues in Henry, Like Always, the first book in an early reader series based on the same character.

Perfect for:

• Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school classrooms
• Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder
• Librarians, teachers, and booksellers looking for children's picture books that celebrate diversity and inclusion
• A reassuring read for kids with varying levels of social anxiety
• Gift-givers looking for a sweet and relatable book about making friends