A Friend for Henry

Bibliography

Bailey, J. (2019). A FRIEND FOR HENRY. Illustrated by M. Song. Chronicle Books. ISBN: 978-1-4521-6791-6.

Plot Summary

A FRIEND FOR HENRY is about a young boy, Henry, who is on the autism spectrum and wants to make a friend in Classroom Six. Henry knows what a friend should do from sharing, listening, and 

liking things in a certain order as he does. Unfortunately, Henry's efforts do not go the way he hopes. Until he finds a friend who understands him perfectly and gives Henry the space and kindness he needs.

Critical Analysis

A FRIEND FOR HENRY is a picture book that is quite inclusive for centering around a child on the autism spectrum in an everyday school setting. The story is not about "fixing" Henry. Instead, it shows readers how Henry thinks, feels, and tries to connect with others in his own ways. Allowing readers to understand and connect with Henry's attempt to make friends.

One of the strongest parts is the representation of sensory and emotional experiences in a respectful way. Henry's moments where things are too loud, too close, or not in the right order are detailed, showing readers that Henry is not just being difficult. This is important for inclusive literature because it is building empathy rather than a sense of helplessness.

Mika Song's illustrations are soft and simple, supporting the story well. The simple illustrations allow the focus to remain on Henry's body language, reactions, and facial expressions. It's clear when he is confused, focused, or upset. 

Author Jenn Bailey is a mother of a child on the autism spectrum. This connection strengthens the authenticity built because her focus is to build awareness and empathy as well as represent those children with autism. Overall, this is a meaningful inclusive book.

Review Excerpts

"As the number of diagnosed children on the autistic spectrum increases, so does the need for informative and positive presentations such as this." Booklist, starred review.

"Whether on the spectrum or not, friends don't have to share everything, just enough, and this book sweetly provides." Kirkus, starred review.

Connections

This book would work well during a unit of inclusivity, friendship, social-emotional learning lesson, or a classroom discussion about neurodiversity. It can be used to open discussions about any of these topics, focusing on how Henry needs a friend and how classmates can show him kindness.