Being Friends with Bodie Finch

Zara's scared. She doesn't want to go to school any more. New boy Bodie Finch kicks over blocks and snatches toys and throws chairs, and she can't understand a word he says.

But when Miss Tinker arrives to share her understanding of autism, Zara sees what the world feels like for Bodie Finch. She becomes his best friend and advocate.

To everyone's surprise Bodie responds, reaching out to Zara in his own unique way.

This enchanting picture book, illustrated with vibrant full-colour collages, is based on the real-life classroom experiences of the author, early-childhood educator Candy Lawrence. It's more than just a touching story, it's a teaching resource for parents and teachers to help them open conversations with their children about the challenges of inclusion of children with autism in mainstream classrooms. The techniques used by 'Miss Tinker' are genuine, effective ways to respond to the child with autism, and the book comes with a digital teachers' and parents' handbook (co-authored with inclusion specialist Rebecca Thompson) to help caring adults to get the most out of this educational aid.

Being Friends with Bodie Finch is a comforting, helpful story for children and a valuable aid to understanding for adults. Suitable for ages 4-8, but younger and older children may also identify with Zara's difficulties.