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Jo's Special Gifts
A heartwarming story celebrating the unique gifts each person brings into the world.
Join Jo, a remarkable autistic boy, on a colorful adventure celebrating his love for science, music, books, spinning wonders, and his trusty green bike.
In this heartwarming tale told in rhyme and brought to life with enchanting illustrations, Jo's special gifts shine, teaching kids the beauty of embracing uniqueness.
Explore the world with Jo, where noise-canceling headphones and AAC devices become symbols of understanding and acceptance.
A delightful journey that encourages children to celebrate their extraordinary minds!
Teachers and parents will enjoy adding this book to their bookshelf:
Representation: Not only are children on the autism spectrum celebrated, but the author, illustrator, and editor of the book are all mothers to autistic children.
Sensory Accommodations: The beautifully colored illustrations highlight the use of the AAC device and noise-canceling headphones.
Inclusivity: Encourages autistic children to embrace their special gifts and their amazing, unique brains.
Parental Advice: Additional helpful tips and insight are provided by the author, who is also a family doctor.
Join Jo, a remarkable autistic boy, on a colorful adventure celebrating his love for science, music, books, spinning wonders, and his trusty green bike.
In this heartwarming tale told in rhyme and brought to life with enchanting illustrations, Jo's special gifts shine, teaching kids the beauty of embracing uniqueness.
Explore the world with Jo, where noise-canceling headphones and AAC devices become symbols of understanding and acceptance.
A delightful journey that encourages children to celebrate their extraordinary minds!
Teachers and parents will enjoy adding this book to their bookshelf:
Representation: Not only are children on the autism spectrum celebrated, but the author, illustrator, and editor of the book are all mothers to autistic children.
Sensory Accommodations: The beautifully colored illustrations highlight the use of the AAC device and noise-canceling headphones.
Inclusivity: Encourages autistic children to embrace their special gifts and their amazing, unique brains.
Parental Advice: Additional helpful tips and insight are provided by the author, who is also a family doctor.
- GenresPicture Books
39 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 29, 2024
“Hello! I’m Jo! I’m just like you.
But I’m unique in my own way!”
Those first two lines of Jo’s Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera perfectly describe the theme of this bright and diverse picture book – the same but unique – making it not only an insightful resource for educators, childcare workers, classmates, friends, and family but also an enjoyable read for all children. I loved in particular how affirming the text & illustrations are for children who look different or act different or use different tools. Lots of diverse kiddos represented on these pages – with glasses, in wheelchairs, with an AAC device, with noise-canceling headphones, with different skin tones, with different senses of style. And all of these differences are celebrated as gifts that make us special.
Since the focus of this book is primarily a little boy with autism, it naturally becomes more than “just” a fun and colorful read or a way to help children with autism feel seen and loved. It also becomes an invaluable resource to help children understand more about why their autistic classmate or neighborhood friend acts – or reacts – the way they do. I couldn’t help but think how this would have been a WONDERFUL book for me to have in my classroom library when I taught school, and I could easily see how a teacher in an integrated class would be able to use Jo’s Special Gifts as a read aloud to create a positive and understanding environment among the students for those on the spectrum.
Bottom Line: Written, illustrated, and edited by mamas of autistic children, Jo’s Special Gifts is a heartfelt and endearing picture book that celebrates the beautiful uniqueness of all children, but especially those on the autism spectrum. I loved Jo and his gift for music, his love of anything space-related, and his affirming parents – and I loved what his candidness (courtesy of the author) taught me about autism in the process. The note at the end to fellow parents of children on the spectrum is full of encouragement and practical advice, too. The illustrations are visually appealing and colorful, and they just honestly radiate joy. It’s a happy book, even when mentioning some of the challenges of autism, and goodness knows we can use more happy books in this current world.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
But I’m unique in my own way!”
Those first two lines of Jo’s Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera perfectly describe the theme of this bright and diverse picture book – the same but unique – making it not only an insightful resource for educators, childcare workers, classmates, friends, and family but also an enjoyable read for all children. I loved in particular how affirming the text & illustrations are for children who look different or act different or use different tools. Lots of diverse kiddos represented on these pages – with glasses, in wheelchairs, with an AAC device, with noise-canceling headphones, with different skin tones, with different senses of style. And all of these differences are celebrated as gifts that make us special.
Since the focus of this book is primarily a little boy with autism, it naturally becomes more than “just” a fun and colorful read or a way to help children with autism feel seen and loved. It also becomes an invaluable resource to help children understand more about why their autistic classmate or neighborhood friend acts – or reacts – the way they do. I couldn’t help but think how this would have been a WONDERFUL book for me to have in my classroom library when I taught school, and I could easily see how a teacher in an integrated class would be able to use Jo’s Special Gifts as a read aloud to create a positive and understanding environment among the students for those on the spectrum.
Bottom Line: Written, illustrated, and edited by mamas of autistic children, Jo’s Special Gifts is a heartfelt and endearing picture book that celebrates the beautiful uniqueness of all children, but especially those on the autism spectrum. I loved Jo and his gift for music, his love of anything space-related, and his affirming parents – and I loved what his candidness (courtesy of the author) taught me about autism in the process. The note at the end to fellow parents of children on the spectrum is full of encouragement and practical advice, too. The illustrations are visually appealing and colorful, and they just honestly radiate joy. It’s a happy book, even when mentioning some of the challenges of autism, and goodness knows we can use more happy books in this current world.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 9, 2024
Jo's Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera, illustrated by Lorna Humphreys is a touching educational book. It is the first book I can recall reading that helps one understand the complexities of being on the spectrum or the parent of a child on the spectrum.
With a soft huggable matte cover in the most beautiful shade of yellow, it opens up onto the cutest little "This book belongs to _______" page. I immediately had a 'Little Golden Book" flashback. The book is well articulated. Written from Jo's viewpoint, it invites you into the intimacy of his mind.
He shares his story straightforwardly and adorably so that what would normally make you uncomfortable because you don't know what to say or how to react, turns into an "Oh. I get it."
By no means am I saying that the book is an exhaustive reference source that makes the reader all-knowing. It is, however, a wonderful introduction that piques your interest and prompts you to want to learn more.
At the end of the book, Mariam shares some information to aid adults.
What I Liked
- The book caters to kids and adults
- The whole idea of the book
- Jo does not feel sorry for himself, he just is
- The emphasis is on what he brings to the table with his multiple gifts like playing music by ear and perfect pitch. As a singer, those are two huge talents.
What Gave Me Pause
- I was not a fan of some of the rhyming
Key Takeaway
- Everyone has worth, and everyone is born with at least one gift.
My Recommendation
- Check out a copy of this book it would be a great addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes. It turned out to be the book that I didn't know I needed to read. Well done, Mariam!
- If you liked Zion Learns to See: Opening Our Eyes to Homelessness by father/daughter team Terence and Zion Lester, you will love Jo's Special Gifts.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and purchased a copy via Kindle Unlimited. All opinions shared are my own.
With a soft huggable matte cover in the most beautiful shade of yellow, it opens up onto the cutest little "This book belongs to _______" page. I immediately had a 'Little Golden Book" flashback. The book is well articulated. Written from Jo's viewpoint, it invites you into the intimacy of his mind.
He shares his story straightforwardly and adorably so that what would normally make you uncomfortable because you don't know what to say or how to react, turns into an "Oh. I get it."
By no means am I saying that the book is an exhaustive reference source that makes the reader all-knowing. It is, however, a wonderful introduction that piques your interest and prompts you to want to learn more.
At the end of the book, Mariam shares some information to aid adults.
What I Liked
- The book caters to kids and adults
- The whole idea of the book
- Jo does not feel sorry for himself, he just is
- The emphasis is on what he brings to the table with his multiple gifts like playing music by ear and perfect pitch. As a singer, those are two huge talents.
What Gave Me Pause
- I was not a fan of some of the rhyming
Key Takeaway
- Everyone has worth, and everyone is born with at least one gift.
My Recommendation
- Check out a copy of this book it would be a great addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes. It turned out to be the book that I didn't know I needed to read. Well done, Mariam!
- If you liked Zion Learns to See: Opening Our Eyes to Homelessness by father/daughter team Terence and Zion Lester, you will love Jo's Special Gifts.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and purchased a copy via Kindle Unlimited. All opinions shared are my own.
January 28, 2024
From the moment I laid eyes on the first page of Jo's Special Gifts, I knew that this book would bring a burst of joy to children's lives.
It radiates positivity and promotes self-love, while celebrating the beauty of each individual's uniqueness.
Among the vast array of books that touch upon this subject, this read truly stands out as a masterpiece. What sets it apart is its remarkable ability to gently and engagingly teach children about the extraordinary nature of individuals on the autistic spectrum. Through its captivating storytelling, it showcases the diverse personalities, interests, and talents that make each person on the spectrum truly exceptional.
As a result, it is not just a source of entertainment for children, but also a valuable resource for parents, educators, and anyone who wishes to foster understanding and empathy in young minds. Moreover, the book's illustrations are not only vibrant and visually appealing but also intricately detailed, adding an extra layer of magic to an already outstanding read!
In all, it serves as a testament to the profound impact that literature can have in promoting appreciation for the diversity that exists within our world.
It radiates positivity and promotes self-love, while celebrating the beauty of each individual's uniqueness.
Among the vast array of books that touch upon this subject, this read truly stands out as a masterpiece. What sets it apart is its remarkable ability to gently and engagingly teach children about the extraordinary nature of individuals on the autistic spectrum. Through its captivating storytelling, it showcases the diverse personalities, interests, and talents that make each person on the spectrum truly exceptional.
As a result, it is not just a source of entertainment for children, but also a valuable resource for parents, educators, and anyone who wishes to foster understanding and empathy in young minds. Moreover, the book's illustrations are not only vibrant and visually appealing but also intricately detailed, adding an extra layer of magic to an already outstanding read!
In all, it serves as a testament to the profound impact that literature can have in promoting appreciation for the diversity that exists within our world.
March 31, 2024
“Jo's Special Gifts” celebrates the unique gifts we have through spirited rhymes and full-page illustrations. The story has a first-person narrator, Jo, who is autistic, and reveals the special gifts he has.
Not only does this story tell of Jo’s special gifts, but also helps children understand someone with autism a bit better. It also might show children within the autism spectrum, that there are other children that might experience similar emotions, abilities, social skills, etc. as they do.
I love the inclusivity and diversity of the characters depicted in this story. A child with autism, in a wheelchair, musically inclined, etc. I have a nephew who is on the spectrum, and I marvel at his remarkable memory.
Whether young readers are on the spectrum or not, this book showcases how we share commonalities with others, and have unique gifts that are all our own. Helpful notes are included in the back of the book for parents who have questions about the challenges of autism.
First Lines: Hello! I’m Jo!
Genre: Children
Author: Miriam Shapera
Page Count: 40
Reading Age: 3-10
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Not only does this story tell of Jo’s special gifts, but also helps children understand someone with autism a bit better. It also might show children within the autism spectrum, that there are other children that might experience similar emotions, abilities, social skills, etc. as they do.
I love the inclusivity and diversity of the characters depicted in this story. A child with autism, in a wheelchair, musically inclined, etc. I have a nephew who is on the spectrum, and I marvel at his remarkable memory.
Whether young readers are on the spectrum or not, this book showcases how we share commonalities with others, and have unique gifts that are all our own. Helpful notes are included in the back of the book for parents who have questions about the challenges of autism.
First Lines: Hello! I’m Jo!
Genre: Children
Author: Miriam Shapera
Page Count: 40
Reading Age: 3-10
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
April 21, 2024
Jo's Special Gifts is a beautiful, important, representative, loving, educational, sweet, and delightful story! This book is a heartwarming celebration of neurodiversity. It encourages each individual to embrace their own unique gifts and accept others unique gifts.
As someone who loves multiple individuals with Autsim I couldn't adore this book more! All of the little details like including an illustration of an augmentative communication device, representing various forms of diversity throughout the book, highlighting special interests, and showing who the main character is through words and consistent illustrations does not go unnoticed. This book is full of undeniable heart!
Jo is a lovable, enthusiastic, kind, inquisitive, and sweet boy. Readers are introduced to him through rhyming text and vivid illustrations. Jo's love for space, music, and riding his bike are clear. Young readers will see so much of themselves in Jo, but they will also learn how he processes the world differently than them. He may not like changes or be the best conversationalist, but he is fantastic son, friend, and student. You simply can't help but love Jo and be thankful you understand him a bit better after reading this lovely book.
As someone who loves multiple individuals with Autsim I couldn't adore this book more! All of the little details like including an illustration of an augmentative communication device, representing various forms of diversity throughout the book, highlighting special interests, and showing who the main character is through words and consistent illustrations does not go unnoticed. This book is full of undeniable heart!
Jo is a lovable, enthusiastic, kind, inquisitive, and sweet boy. Readers are introduced to him through rhyming text and vivid illustrations. Jo's love for space, music, and riding his bike are clear. Young readers will see so much of themselves in Jo, but they will also learn how he processes the world differently than them. He may not like changes or be the best conversationalist, but he is fantastic son, friend, and student. You simply can't help but love Jo and be thankful you understand him a bit better after reading this lovely book.
May 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this book about Jo and his special gifts. I am a ASD mom of an 13-year-old Aspergers boy who shares some of these similarities with Jo, the character in this book. Our son is what they now call high functioning so he is different in some ways but in others he is similar, like with the changes in routine. And the touching, my son was very sweet as a young child and wanted to be hugged a little bit. Now as he has grown though and this is perfectly normal for ASD people, they do not like to be touched all the time due to sensory overload. My husband is also Aspergers as well, therefore I am the perfect audience for this book:)
The author is writing as an ASD mom who shares the weaknesses and strengths of Jo and autistic people in general. That is a great thing about this book to share the importance of Autistic people and why they do what they do. I really enjoyed the illustrations as well, they are bright and colorful for all kids!
I highly recommend this book to kids of all ages and what we call in my house, different brain chemistry of all types, including the so-called 'normals'!
The author is writing as an ASD mom who shares the weaknesses and strengths of Jo and autistic people in general. That is a great thing about this book to share the importance of Autistic people and why they do what they do. I really enjoyed the illustrations as well, they are bright and colorful for all kids!
I highly recommend this book to kids of all ages and what we call in my house, different brain chemistry of all types, including the so-called 'normals'!
July 7, 2024
"Jo's Special Gifts" by Mariam Shapera is a very sweet and charming children's book capturing the story of Jo and his special gifts. It's expertly illustrated and works on the imagination of young readers, capturing everything in the story. Both the author and the illustrator are parents of autistic children.
The illustrations inside the book are vivid and colourful, thus adding depth to the story. It helps in the visualisation of the characters and magic elements associated with the gifts that Jo has. The artwork is beautiful and supports the text superbly.
This book is full of good messages for kids to put into practice. It teaches children to be kind, appreciate what they have, and share with everyone else. Such themes the author therein subtly weaves in his story to make it fun yet informative.
Altogether, "Jo's Special Gifts" is a cute read, blending a touching storyline with beautiful illustrations to understand autistic children and adults. In Simple words, what an educative book!?
The illustrations inside the book are vivid and colourful, thus adding depth to the story. It helps in the visualisation of the characters and magic elements associated with the gifts that Jo has. The artwork is beautiful and supports the text superbly.
This book is full of good messages for kids to put into practice. It teaches children to be kind, appreciate what they have, and share with everyone else. Such themes the author therein subtly weaves in his story to make it fun yet informative.
Altogether, "Jo's Special Gifts" is a cute read, blending a touching storyline with beautiful illustrations to understand autistic children and adults. In Simple words, what an educative book!?
April 2, 2024
This is such a special book that celebrates special kids!
Told in a very honest, thoughtful and kid-friendly way, we meet Jo, who is autistic and amazing! The book celebrates all that makes Jo unique, their likes & dislikes, their curiousity, and the ways they show affection. It also shares about some of the challenges they can face when trying to navigate friendships, school, and social situations.
This is a great book to discuss autism with your children or class, and is also a beautiful book to read to a child with autism- seeing themselves in a story, and perhaps finding a connection.
The illustrations are bright, colourful and perfect for engaging little readers.
Told in a very honest, thoughtful and kid-friendly way, we meet Jo, who is autistic and amazing! The book celebrates all that makes Jo unique, their likes & dislikes, their curiousity, and the ways they show affection. It also shares about some of the challenges they can face when trying to navigate friendships, school, and social situations.
This is a great book to discuss autism with your children or class, and is also a beautiful book to read to a child with autism- seeing themselves in a story, and perhaps finding a connection.
The illustrations are bright, colourful and perfect for engaging little readers.
June 6, 2024
Sweet and heartfelt book
Discover this sweet and heartfelt book by family doctor and children's book author, Mariam Shapera! You can tell this book was lovingly written and illustrated. Mariam and illustrator Lorna Humphreys are both parents to autistic children. Mariam regularly posts on social media with ideas, helpful information, and her experiences advocating for her son, Jo. The picture book's main character Jo was inspired by her son. What a beautiful expression of love and a great addition to home and school libraries!
Discover this sweet and heartfelt book by family doctor and children's book author, Mariam Shapera! You can tell this book was lovingly written and illustrated. Mariam and illustrator Lorna Humphreys are both parents to autistic children. Mariam regularly posts on social media with ideas, helpful information, and her experiences advocating for her son, Jo. The picture book's main character Jo was inspired by her son. What a beautiful expression of love and a great addition to home and school libraries!
April 3, 2025
This is a beautifully written book about autism. I loved how, at the end, it included a wealth of informative facts about autism. It highlighted the many similarities between a typical child and a child with autism, explaining the characteristics in such a thoughtful and accessible way. I think it's a fantastic tool for sparking conversations between children and parents, helping to encourage meaningful dialogue and understanding.
December 1, 2025
A Beautiful, Inclusive Read for Everyone!
My children and I absolutely love this book! It’s beautifully written and illustrated, and it captures autistic joy, sensory differences, special interests, accommodations, Gestalt Language Processing and the many ways children communicate with such care and accuracy. It’s a gorgeous, inclusive story that truly belongs in every home and classroom.
My children and I absolutely love this book! It’s beautifully written and illustrated, and it captures autistic joy, sensory differences, special interests, accommodations, Gestalt Language Processing and the many ways children communicate with such care and accuracy. It’s a gorgeous, inclusive story that truly belongs in every home and classroom.
May 26, 2026
This is such an important book, and it is written in a way that feels engaging and accessible for children. As the mom of a child with autism, I really appreciated reading such a sweet and uplifting children’s book. The message is beautiful and such an important reminder for kids to feel seen, valued, and confident in who they are.
I think this would be a wonderful book for parents, teachers, and classrooms.
I think this would be a wonderful book for parents, teachers, and classrooms.
April 24, 2024
As a teacher in a combined special ed school, I really appreciated Ms. Shapera's sensitive efforts in teaching kids on the spectrum to embrace their unique gifts. This amazing book can also bring awareness and understanding about autism to all children. By recognizing Jo's special abilities, children can better understand their own. We need more books like these!
April 25, 2024
"Jo's Special Gifts" is a touching portrayal of neurodiversity, resonating deeply with both children and caregivers. Through vibrant illustrations and rhythmic prose, Shapera delicately navigates the world of autism, celebrating its unique beauty. This book is a heartfelt recommendation for families seeking to foster understanding and acceptance.
April 25, 2024
Lovely story that shares the wonderful things that make Joe unique while also educating about neurodivergence! From his love of space and music, to being autistic, a wonderful journey of learning about how we can all learn to interact, include, and play with everyone! Some great information at the end of the story for parents or teachers beginning to understand the beautiful world of autism.
April 29, 2024
A one-stop book for it all. This is the story of a boy with autism and the parents who love and support him unconditionally. It is dipped in positivity and rolled in empathy. Through engaging rhyme and astounding illustrations, the message unfolds as to each person’s uniqueness, talents, and personalities. Every home and library needs this book on their bookshelves.
May 5, 2024
raising awareness and understanding
This story takes us on a journey of understanding the thoughts and feelings of a child with autism. It would be a great book to educate kids on showing compassion for others who might act or think differently than they do. The beautiful illustrations pull you into a world of colorful creations. The book has a useful resource section too.
This story takes us on a journey of understanding the thoughts and feelings of a child with autism. It would be a great book to educate kids on showing compassion for others who might act or think differently than they do. The beautiful illustrations pull you into a world of colorful creations. The book has a useful resource section too.
November 29, 2024
Jo's Special Gifts is a heartwarming children's book that celebrates individuality and kindness. The story follows Jo, a young girl who discovers her unique talents and learns to embrace them. Through beautiful illustrations and a simple narrative, the book encourages young readers to appreciate their own special gifts. It's a lovely story that promotes self-esteem and empathy.
April 23, 2024
Heartwarming Story
Mariam’s story is beautiful and gently explains their unique and special world through Jo’s gifts. Highly recommend to any family especially for children who need to learn about and embrace autism.
Mariam’s story is beautiful and gently explains their unique and special world through Jo’s gifts. Highly recommend to any family especially for children who need to learn about and embrace autism.
April 25, 2024
A heart-warming story told through the eyes of an autistic child. The book is so relatable and the story is written in a very gentle way. The illustrations are beautiful and complement the story well.
May 3, 2024
Full of life and color!
What an amazing way to capture Jo and all his special gifts! This book is perfect as it diverse and full of love. The illustrations bring the pages to life while the rhyming is fun and sweet!
What an amazing way to capture Jo and all his special gifts! This book is perfect as it diverse and full of love. The illustrations bring the pages to life while the rhyming is fun and sweet!
April 24, 2024
Beautiful story celebrating our differences. Children with autism will love this story and see that they are special. And children without autism will learn that it's ok to be different.
April 2, 2025
This book touched my heart. Jo’s world is full of color, kindness, and curiosity. It’s a gentle way to help kids understand and appreciate differences. I’m so glad we added it to our shelf.
April 30, 2024
Jo is a young boy on the autism spectrum. The rhyming text of the book explains some of the ways he interacts with the world. He enjoys things that spin, music, and outer space. Routine can be a comfort, but changes and surprises may cause “a scene.” His mother tells him that he has special gifts such as his acute hearing and attention to details. Jo admits that he is not much of a talker and doesn’t care for kisses, but he does like hugs and tickles.
Illustrations show Jo playing the piano, having a spinning top contest with other children, and riding his bike. Some scenes show Jo carefully counting all the grapes in his bowl or shouting out words that he likes. Jo’s parents are patient with him; he reads and stargazes with his dad, his mother holds him close when he is sad.
Back matter includes a note from the author with answers to questions she commonly receives on how to involve a child in more play, language and social skills, dietary changes, potty training, and general principles to keep in mind when raising and caring for children on the autism spectrum. This would be a good book to read with siblings or classmates of children with ASD, to show that neurodivergent children are children first - and they have their likes, dislikes, and special gifts just the way any other child does.
Illustrations show Jo playing the piano, having a spinning top contest with other children, and riding his bike. Some scenes show Jo carefully counting all the grapes in his bowl or shouting out words that he likes. Jo’s parents are patient with him; he reads and stargazes with his dad, his mother holds him close when he is sad.
Back matter includes a note from the author with answers to questions she commonly receives on how to involve a child in more play, language and social skills, dietary changes, potty training, and general principles to keep in mind when raising and caring for children on the autism spectrum. This would be a good book to read with siblings or classmates of children with ASD, to show that neurodivergent children are children first - and they have their likes, dislikes, and special gifts just the way any other child does.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews