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Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)

Description:

You're autistic - but what does that really mean?

Welcome to the ultimate guide to understanding who you are and what it means to be autistic!

In this fully illustrated graphic guide to what it means to be autistic and discover the differences between sensory seekers and avoiders, why you might find some things super easy and other things extra challenging and even begin to understand and navigate all of your big (and small) feelings.

Best of all, learn what makes you totally unique. You might just come away with some cool facts to share with your friends and family!


Editorial Reviews

Review

This is a fantastic book; a perfect combination of Niamh's wonderfully clear, practical, affirming information and Rebecca's gorgeous illustrations. It is a must read for children and young people, and indeed anyone who wants to learn about autism and being autistic. -- Dr Micaela Connolly, senior educational and child psychologist

Being autistic and having a good understanding of your own authentic autistic self is as valuable a gift you could ever give yourself - and this wonderful, realistic, optimistic, artistic book is a resource that could aid you towards that glorious understanding of self that all autistic people deserve. -- Dr Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism, Sheffield Hallam University

An informative guide for young Autistic people wishing to understand themselves better. Written in Niamh's friendly and gentle tone, it's a safe companion for this important journey of self-discovery. -- Claire O’Neill, Autistic author and teacher.

An exceptional resource. Accessible and easy to understand, this is a must read for autistic children (and for everyone else!). Looking at areas of strength and areas of challenge as a point of fact, Niamh and Bex both capture and affirm autistic experience beautifully. I can't recommend it enough. -- Sharon McCarthy, Neurodivergent lecturer, advocate, author and parent

I absolutely loved this book. I think autistic kids will gain a great deal from reading this. It is strongly focussed on strengths and inclusion and supporting autistic kids to be proud of who they are. Highly recommended. -- Yenn Purkis, Autistic advocate and author of books for autistic kids.

This terrific book explains what being autistic actually means. It's written with clarity, warmth and humour and the illustrations are exceptional.

A wonderful book that will help every child (and adult) understand what 'being autistic' means.

-- Sarah Webb, children’s author and book reviewer

Book Description

Everything children aged 8-12 need to know about being autistic

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars amazingly helpful for spectrum kids & caregivers

B.L. · June 13, 2025

This book is filled with wonderful info, drawings and easy to read for the kiddo. Love it & amazingly helpful for spectrum kids & caregivers learning about the spectrum

5.0 out of 5 stars A truly fabulous book for autistic kids and their allies

I.W. · September 22, 2024

I’m a neurodivergent adult and parent of autistic kids- and also a former educator and if I could endorse this book 100% to anyone meaningful across all contexts- I would! I’m sitting, reading and smiling- the entire way. Written in fun “kid language” - clear but not overly dry or boring- and with a very good proportion of comics peppered within- this is a fun brain read that can be done in one sitting or picked up at will. It’s quite comprehensive and neuroaffirming - I’ll be using it as a text in some kids programming I’ll be running soon! I also think this book 100% belongs in libraries, would appeal to a graphic novel lover, and should be a must-read for autistic kids and also their allies. Adults, read it yourselves too- it’s no lighter on great info than any other adult equivalent! I am able to walk away from this book with even more love for my identity and brain- and that is worth celebrating! This author and illustrator team have done an excellent and coordinated job.

5.0 out of 5 stars From a parent & a School Psychologist point of view

B. · October 17, 2024

This book is everything parents are looking for in helping their child to understand their Autism! I am a parent of a son with Autism, as well as a School Psychologist. From both perspectives on this- I am telling you this book has it all. It explains things from such a beautiful perspective to help your child feel that their neurodiversity is a gift. It also goes into explaining different social norms that your child may feel confused about & offers a better understanding & solutions. I also love how it’s written with visuals & comic strips, different fonts, etc. This book is perfection 💙

5.0 out of 5 stars A great book for kids first learning about autism

R. · September 25, 2025

My daughter really appreciated reading this book after receiving her diagnosis. It helps that in every section it said "Some (but not all) autistic people...", as many common traits aren't true for her.

5.0 out of 5 stars I wish I had had this book when I was a kid!

B.H. · September 15, 2024

I initially bought this book for my schoolteacher spouse, but as and adult who only recently discovered my autism (and at spouse’s suggestion) Indecided to read it myself. It is wonderful!I wish this book had been around when I was 10. I absolutely love everything about it, and would’ve loved it then! I would also like to recommend it to any adults who have recently realized they are autistic or have recently been diagnosed as autistic. While I am in my 60s, my understanding of what it means that I am autistic is about that of a 10-year old.As I read the book, it reminded me of so many memories from my childhood—events, thought, feelings—that I had never fully processed nor understood. Things that were formative in my life, and that never made sense before. The author’s straightforward, kind, amusing, and thoughtful writing make this complex topic accessible to anyone.Whether or not you are autistic, I have to recommend this book to you. If you have a young autistic kid in your life, it would make a great gift and should help them better understand themselves and help them survive in a mostly non-autistic world. Be sure to read it yourself too, so we we can all work towards making a world that works for all of us.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book!

A.K. · February 7, 2025

My middle child is autistic and this book has helped him articulate what his daily life looks like. It has shown him how to show us what he is feeling. He hasn't needed any help with the larger words or descriptions which is a huge victory in itself.

5.0 out of 5 stars Finding Out

L.B. · July 24, 2025

I am old and just figuring things out now, but this book is awesome for kids and adults as it is so clear. Maybe it is because I am the way I am, but having things so clearly described including facial expressions used in the book was really helpful. Definitely recommend for anyone, at any age, who is thinking about themselves in relation to autism.

5.0 out of 5 stars Kids really connected with it

L.B. · October 14, 2025

My kids (9 and 11) who are both neurodivergent really connected with this book.

Accurate, fun and helpful

A.F. · July 26, 2025

Really nice and fun.My daughter feels understood.She laughs a lot reading the book.It feels like a relief!

10 out of 10

w. · November 19, 2024

This is the book about Autism you have been looking for . Perfect for the Junior readers 10-12. Illustrations and short paragraphs. Some humour and quite engaging.It is in Black and white illustrations no colour but hte overall book I would recommend to anyone wanting to chat with kids about Autism or learn more themselves.

Great book for a newly diagnosed child.

K. · July 12, 2025

This is a really great book for explaining autism to a newly diagnosed child. It was age appropriate for my 8 year old with no learning difficulties and he found it really helpful to understand why he feels certain ways about things. I like the comparison between bio diversity and neurodiversity especially. The illustrations are great and made us chuckle a few times.

A refreshing autistic voice that speaks to all ages!

R.R. · July 26, 2024

"Being Autistic; and what that actually means" by Niamh Garvey is an absolute gem! This book isn't just a great read; it’s a wonderful tool for anyone looking to understand autism better.The illustrations by Rebecca Burgess are fantastic. They’re ‘cool’, fun, engaging, and perfectly suited for kids. The artwork really helps break down complex ideas in a way that’s fun and easy to grasp, making the book super accessible for younger readers. It also makes the book less daunting as there aren’t huge blocks of text.What’s really special about this book is the authentic autistic voice that shines through. Niamh Garvey writes with such clarity and honesty, you can tell this is coming from real, lived experience. It's a refreshing change to hear directly from someone who’s autistic rather than just about autism.The neuroaffirming tone is another big highlight. The book celebrates neurodiversity and helps readers appreciate the unique strengths and perspectives that come with being autistic. It's a positive, empowering read that does a great job of sharing the focus between the challenges and the many wonderful aspects of being autistic.And it’s not just for kids! Adults can learn a ton from this book too. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who wants to understand autism better, you’ll find it incredibly insightful and informative.Overall, "Being Autistic; and what that actually means" is a must-read. It's engaging, enlightening, and beautifully written and illustrated. Highly recommend!

Really good book

C.k. · March 22, 2025

My curious boy has just found out that he has autism and had lots of questions that I wasn't sure how to answer but this book has really helped him relate to his diagnosis. Very insightful and really good use of language at an appropriate level for his age.

Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)

Product ID: U1805011715
Condition: New

4.9

AED8794

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

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All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

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Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

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Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)

Product ID: U1805011715
Condition: New

4.9

Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)-0
Type: Paperback

AED8794

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

You're autistic - but what does that really mean?

Welcome to the ultimate guide to understanding who you are and what it means to be autistic!

In this fully illustrated graphic guide to what it means to be autistic and discover the differences between sensory seekers and avoiders, why you might find some things super easy and other things extra challenging and even begin to understand and navigate all of your big (and small) feelings.

Best of all, learn what makes you totally unique. You might just come away with some cool facts to share with your friends and family!


Editorial Reviews

Review

This is a fantastic book; a perfect combination of Niamh's wonderfully clear, practical, affirming information and Rebecca's gorgeous illustrations. It is a must read for children and young people, and indeed anyone who wants to learn about autism and being autistic. -- Dr Micaela Connolly, senior educational and child psychologist

Being autistic and having a good understanding of your own authentic autistic self is as valuable a gift you could ever give yourself - and this wonderful, realistic, optimistic, artistic book is a resource that could aid you towards that glorious understanding of self that all autistic people deserve. -- Dr Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism, Sheffield Hallam University

An informative guide for young Autistic people wishing to understand themselves better. Written in Niamh's friendly and gentle tone, it's a safe companion for this important journey of self-discovery. -- Claire O’Neill, Autistic author and teacher.

An exceptional resource. Accessible and easy to understand, this is a must read for autistic children (and for everyone else!). Looking at areas of strength and areas of challenge as a point of fact, Niamh and Bex both capture and affirm autistic experience beautifully. I can't recommend it enough. -- Sharon McCarthy, Neurodivergent lecturer, advocate, author and parent

I absolutely loved this book. I think autistic kids will gain a great deal from reading this. It is strongly focussed on strengths and inclusion and supporting autistic kids to be proud of who they are. Highly recommended. -- Yenn Purkis, Autistic advocate and author of books for autistic kids.

This terrific book explains what being autistic actually means. It's written with clarity, warmth and humour and the illustrations are exceptional.

A wonderful book that will help every child (and adult) understand what 'being autistic' means.

-- Sarah Webb, children’s author and book reviewer

Book Description

Everything children aged 8-12 need to know about being autistic

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars amazingly helpful for spectrum kids & caregivers

B.L. · June 13, 2025

This book is filled with wonderful info, drawings and easy to read for the kiddo. Love it & amazingly helpful for spectrum kids & caregivers learning about the spectrum

5.0 out of 5 stars A truly fabulous book for autistic kids and their allies

I.W. · September 22, 2024

I’m a neurodivergent adult and parent of autistic kids- and also a former educator and if I could endorse this book 100% to anyone meaningful across all contexts- I would! I’m sitting, reading and smiling- the entire way. Written in fun “kid language” - clear but not overly dry or boring- and with a very good proportion of comics peppered within- this is a fun brain read that can be done in one sitting or picked up at will. It’s quite comprehensive and neuroaffirming - I’ll be using it as a text in some kids programming I’ll be running soon! I also think this book 100% belongs in libraries, would appeal to a graphic novel lover, and should be a must-read for autistic kids and also their allies. Adults, read it yourselves too- it’s no lighter on great info than any other adult equivalent! I am able to walk away from this book with even more love for my identity and brain- and that is worth celebrating! This author and illustrator team have done an excellent and coordinated job.

5.0 out of 5 stars From a parent & a School Psychologist point of view

B. · October 17, 2024

This book is everything parents are looking for in helping their child to understand their Autism! I am a parent of a son with Autism, as well as a School Psychologist. From both perspectives on this- I am telling you this book has it all. It explains things from such a beautiful perspective to help your child feel that their neurodiversity is a gift. It also goes into explaining different social norms that your child may feel confused about & offers a better understanding & solutions. I also love how it’s written with visuals & comic strips, different fonts, etc. This book is perfection 💙

5.0 out of 5 stars A great book for kids first learning about autism

R. · September 25, 2025

My daughter really appreciated reading this book after receiving her diagnosis. It helps that in every section it said "Some (but not all) autistic people...", as many common traits aren't true for her.

5.0 out of 5 stars I wish I had had this book when I was a kid!

B.H. · September 15, 2024

I initially bought this book for my schoolteacher spouse, but as and adult who only recently discovered my autism (and at spouse’s suggestion) Indecided to read it myself. It is wonderful!I wish this book had been around when I was 10. I absolutely love everything about it, and would’ve loved it then! I would also like to recommend it to any adults who have recently realized they are autistic or have recently been diagnosed as autistic. While I am in my 60s, my understanding of what it means that I am autistic is about that of a 10-year old.As I read the book, it reminded me of so many memories from my childhood—events, thought, feelings—that I had never fully processed nor understood. Things that were formative in my life, and that never made sense before. The author’s straightforward, kind, amusing, and thoughtful writing make this complex topic accessible to anyone.Whether or not you are autistic, I have to recommend this book to you. If you have a young autistic kid in your life, it would make a great gift and should help them better understand themselves and help them survive in a mostly non-autistic world. Be sure to read it yourself too, so we we can all work towards making a world that works for all of us.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book!

A.K. · February 7, 2025

My middle child is autistic and this book has helped him articulate what his daily life looks like. It has shown him how to show us what he is feeling. He hasn't needed any help with the larger words or descriptions which is a huge victory in itself.

5.0 out of 5 stars Finding Out

L.B. · July 24, 2025

I am old and just figuring things out now, but this book is awesome for kids and adults as it is so clear. Maybe it is because I am the way I am, but having things so clearly described including facial expressions used in the book was really helpful. Definitely recommend for anyone, at any age, who is thinking about themselves in relation to autism.

5.0 out of 5 stars Kids really connected with it

L.B. · October 14, 2025

My kids (9 and 11) who are both neurodivergent really connected with this book.

Accurate, fun and helpful

A.F. · July 26, 2025

Really nice and fun.My daughter feels understood.She laughs a lot reading the book.It feels like a relief!

10 out of 10

w. · November 19, 2024

This is the book about Autism you have been looking for . Perfect for the Junior readers 10-12. Illustrations and short paragraphs. Some humour and quite engaging.It is in Black and white illustrations no colour but hte overall book I would recommend to anyone wanting to chat with kids about Autism or learn more themselves.

Great book for a newly diagnosed child.

K. · July 12, 2025

This is a really great book for explaining autism to a newly diagnosed child. It was age appropriate for my 8 year old with no learning difficulties and he found it really helpful to understand why he feels certain ways about things. I like the comparison between bio diversity and neurodiversity especially. The illustrations are great and made us chuckle a few times.

A refreshing autistic voice that speaks to all ages!

R.R. · July 26, 2024

"Being Autistic; and what that actually means" by Niamh Garvey is an absolute gem! This book isn't just a great read; it’s a wonderful tool for anyone looking to understand autism better.The illustrations by Rebecca Burgess are fantastic. They’re ‘cool’, fun, engaging, and perfectly suited for kids. The artwork really helps break down complex ideas in a way that’s fun and easy to grasp, making the book super accessible for younger readers. It also makes the book less daunting as there aren’t huge blocks of text.What’s really special about this book is the authentic autistic voice that shines through. Niamh Garvey writes with such clarity and honesty, you can tell this is coming from real, lived experience. It's a refreshing change to hear directly from someone who’s autistic rather than just about autism.The neuroaffirming tone is another big highlight. The book celebrates neurodiversity and helps readers appreciate the unique strengths and perspectives that come with being autistic. It's a positive, empowering read that does a great job of sharing the focus between the challenges and the many wonderful aspects of being autistic.And it’s not just for kids! Adults can learn a ton from this book too. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who wants to understand autism better, you’ll find it incredibly insightful and informative.Overall, "Being Autistic; and what that actually means" is a must-read. It's engaging, enlightening, and beautifully written and illustrated. Highly recommend!

Really good book

C.k. · March 22, 2025

My curious boy has just found out that he has autism and had lots of questions that I wasn't sure how to answer but this book has really helped him relate to his diagnosis. Very insightful and really good use of language at an appropriate level for his age.

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More from this brand

Similar items from “Disability”