Lucy Halliday’s new book, The Adventures of Gerald and Josh, offers a heartwarming and interactive reading experience for children with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The story follows two autistic penguin brothers on a zoo adventure, encountering relatable sensory challenges and finding comfort in sensory-friendly solutions.
Designed to help neurodivergent children feel understood, the book engages readers with fun activities, like finding and counting animals. It also promotes empathy, making it a valuable resource for families, carers, and educators.
Relatable Story for Neurodiverse Children
Lucy Halliday, a mother of two neurodiverse children, based this book on her own experiences. Through the characters of Gerald and Josh, children can relate to familiar challenges such as sensory overload and finding safe spaces. For instance, during their zoo visit, the brothers face difficulties with the noise and crowds. However, when they feel overwhelmed, their mother finds a sensory room, allowing them to continue enjoying their day.
Interactive Features
The Adventures of Gerald and Josh also features interactive elements, asking young readers to find and count various animals throughout the story. This feature not only entertains but also provides a supportive tool for children with ADHD and ASD, encouraging focus and engagement during storytime.
A Resource for Neurotypical Children and Siblings
While the book is written for neurodiverse children, it also serves as a tool for neurotypical siblings and peers. The author hopes to raise awareness of autism and normalise behaviours like sensory overload and stimming. Through Gerald and Josh’s experiences, children can better understand why others may struggle in certain environments and develop empathy.
Lucy Halliday says, “I hope the book helps children understand why others may experience sensory overload or noise issues. It can assist siblings in understanding what autism is and why their brother or sister may struggle with outings.”
Available Now
The Adventures of Gerald and Josh is independently published and available to purchase in paperback (£9.63) and Kindle format (£3.99) on Amazon. For more details, visit Amazon link.
This touching and valuable story is sure to become a favourite for families with neurodiverse children, helping them feel seen and supported.
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