Back Of Book:
Holly loves doing experiments and learning new things in science class! But when she finds out the next experience is making slime, she’s worried. Slime is made with glue, and glue is sticky. Holly has sensory issues because of her autism and doesn’t like anything sticky! With help from family and her teacher, Holly receives the accommodations and encouragement she needs to give the slime a try.
My Review:
I received a copy of this picture book from Albert Whitman Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Debut author Jen Malia used her and her daughter’s own experiences with autism and sensory issues and created an important story about empathy and understanding.
The story follows a young girl named Holly as she faces her fear of slime. The text follows Holly in her interactions at home and points out certain triggers like loud noises that can upset people with autism. The story continues to highlight Holly’s social interactions with her teacher and classmates. The main theme of the story is how Holly learns to face her fears and learn that sometimes sticky things can be fun. In addition, Jen weaved in a fantastic STEM lesson about the difference between liquids and solids. The illustrations by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff are bright and bring the slime into focus. The back of the book has a note from the author where she shares more about her experiences with autism. The back of the book also includes a fun recipe for slime.
This is a wonderful story about the iportance of inclusion and understanding for authistic children. I think that this book is a must have for all classroom teachers. It gives readers an inside look into how autistic children can feel as they approach new situtions.
Ages 5 and up
32 Pages
picturebooks4learning 