Review: My Amazing Autistic Brain

My Amazing Autistic Brain is a joyful, affirming picture book that does exactly what it sets out to do: help children and parents understand autism better while celebrating the brilliance of neurodivergent minds. Building on the success of My Amazing ADHD Brain, this vibrant and fun book feels both familiar and fresh, offering reassurance, pride and positivity on every page. Publishing in March by author and illustrator Emily Snape. Emily Snape is a passionate author, illustrator, educator and mum, and regularly works with young people celebrating and supporting their amazing, creative neurodivergent minds.

The playful illustrations immediately draw you in, making complex ideas about autism feel accessible and engaging for young readers. What really stands out is the book’s inclusive and empowering tone. Rather than focusing on challenges alone, it highlights strengths, individuality and the many wonderful ways an autistic brain can think, feel and experience the world.

This is a book designed to spark meaningful conversations. It gives children the language to understand themselves better and helps parents, carers and siblings gain insight with warmth and clarity. The explanations are age-appropriate without ever talking down, and the overall message is one of acceptance, confidence and celebration.

Perfect for families, schools and anyone wanting to nurture understanding, My Amazing Autistic Brain is a thoughtful and uplifting addition to any child’s bookshelf. It’s not just a book about autism – it’s a book about recognising and celebrating what makes each brain amazing.

By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.