Henry, Like Always: Book 1 (Hardcover)
Staff Reviews
This lovely book's simple, often funny prose and moody, single-color illustrations immerse you in Henry's point of view. Though the text never explicitly states that he is on the autism spectrum, Henry's responses to things like loud noises and changes in routine are recognizably autistic, as is his straightforward manner. When a class parade disrupts the week's schedule, Henry is the only kid who isn't thrilled. The anticipation and other changes to routine throughout the week just make him more stressed out. But right before the parade, Henry's able to find a space in it that feels right for him, and help a classmate do the same. I loved the way this book portrays the universal experiences of feeling left out, overwhelmed, and frustrated in ways that are specific to being on the spectrum. It's the small moments—like when Henry hands his teacher a Quiet Card to let her know that he needs some quiet time alone and Henry's grumpy facial expression when the class is making posters for the parade—that make this book exceptional.
- Sara Waltuck, Brookline Booksmith (Brookline, MA)
— From NECBA Windows & Mirrors 2023 Short ListHenry likes Classroom Ten. He likes how it is always the same. But this week, Henry's class will have a parade, and a parade means having Share Time on the wrong day. A parade means playing instruments that are too loud. A parade means this week is not like always.
Join Henry as he navigates the ups and downs of marker missiles, stomach volcanoes, and days that feel a little too orange. From the creators of the Schneider Family Honor-winning picture book A Friend for Henry, this warmly funny book starring a child on the autism spectrum is a reassuring read for school-bound kids of all stripes.
GREAT FOR BEGINNING READERS: With short chapters and simple text, this book is perfect for newly independent readers who are just moving into longer books.
BACK TO SCHOOL: Familiar school scenarios—from new schedules to making new friends—are portrayed with humor and understanding in this series that will appeal to and reassure any child starting or continuing in school.
DIVERSE STORIES: Representing neurodivergent kids is a vital aspect of expanding diverse representation across books for all ages. Henry, Like Always provides a mirror and a window for kids on the autism spectrum and their friends to see themselves in the stories they read.
AN AWARD-WINNING TEAM: Jenn Bailey and Mika Song were awarded a Schneider Family Honor Award for their picture book A Friend for Henry. See how the story continues in this classic-feeling early reader series based on the same character!
Perfect for:
- Newly independent readers
- An excellent resource for parents of kids on the spectrum
- Librarians, teachers, and booksellers looking for a children’s book that offers a window into the experience of autism
- A reassuring read for kids with varying levels of social anxiety
- Gift-givers looking for a sweet and relatable book about friendship
Mika Song grew up in Manila, Philippines, and Honolulu, Hawaii. She moved to New York to attend the Pratt Institute and worked in animation before making children's books. She lives in New York City with her husband and daughter.
“Bailey and Song have crafted an early reader that effectively immerses the reader in its protagonist’s world… Song’s minimalist pen and ink illustrations perfectly suit Henry’s methodical approach to life. The lilting rhythm of Bailey’s text is calm and predictable; its concise and forthright diction reflects Henry’s view of how the world should be.” — The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“The ending of this short chapter book, heavily illustrated and with a format and content to appeal to new readers, is as satisfying as Bailey’s understanding prose and Song’s gentle, friendly illustrations. Henry is an extremely sympathetic hero—relatable and authentic.” - The Horn Book, starred review
“Will inspire and empower all children… a great addition.” — School Library Journal
A 2023 Good Housekeeping Kids Book Award Winner