Bitsy Bat, School Star works because it uses sensory language and visual humor to explain the autistic experience through an upside down perspective. Bitsy empowers readers by using her art to bridge the gap between her needs and her peers. Books in this family share themes of social bravery, neurodivergent protagonists, and creative solutions to sensory challenges.
Reach for this book when your child expresses feeling like they do not fit in or when they are struggling with the sensory and social demands of a new environment. Bitsy Bat, School Star follows a little bat who starts school and quickly realizes that the way she learns, plays, and experiences the world is different from her classmates. While she initially tries to change herself to fit in, she eventually discovers that her unique perspective is actually her greatest strength. This story is an essential tool for validating the experiences of neurodivergent children while teaching all children the value of inclusive thinking. It handles themes of sensory processing and social anxiety with a gentle, affirmative touch, making it ideal for the preschool and early elementary years. It is a beautiful way to normalize the idea that everyone has their own way of being a star.
