Russell’s World: A Story for Kids About Autism
Charles A. Amenta, III, M.D., Author
Monika Pollak, Illustrator
Magination Press: Non-fiction, 2011
Suitable for Ages: 5 – 10
Themes: Autism Spectrum, Sibling Relationships, Family Support, Differences
Opening: “Russell is a kid with special differences. He has autism. This means his behaviors can be surprising in three big ways. He likes to be alone…He can’t talk…He doesn’t play the way other kids do.”
Synopsis: Russell is nine years old and has a form of autism which makes it hard for him to talk and learn. He hums, babbles, giggles and screams. He has two younger brothers, Benjamin and Gregory, who love Russell and play with him when he’s willing. They also know when they need to leave Russell alone. When his brothers have friends over, Russell leaves the room. Benjamin and Gregory are important in helping Russell copy things they do through repetition. Russell attends school where he learns sign language, manners and playing with other children. But, there are times that Russell puts his relationship with his brothers to the test when he breaks their toys or throws tantrums during the night. Unlike many children with autism, Russell, loves hugs and tickles. He is happy boy with brothers who support him.
Why I like this book: This story is a heart warming look into a family living with a child with autism. It is written by Russell’s father, a doctor, who uses very simple language to help children understand autism. The story is told through a collage of photographs of Russell and his brothers accompanied by colorful illustrations that create a background. Very clever. Throughout the story Dr. Amenta shares a situation, and then helps kids understand Russell’s response. He’s also quick to point out that even though Russell may be nonverbal, other kids with autism do talk, have an easier time learning and have special talents. He explains to kids that autism affects each child differently. I feel that parents of an autistic child would find this book useful in helping siblings understand the differences.
Since the book was first published in 1992, Russell and his brothers are now adults. Russell runs a small envelope stuffing business and has a deep love of music. Benjamin is a pianist and Gregory is a mathematician/physicist and percussionist. Music is a very strong bond for this family.
Resources: There is extensive back matter in the book for parents. In using the book with children, ask them what is alike and what is different in Russell’s world compared to their own. Siblings of kids with autism may see both similarities and differences between Russell and their brother/sister.
This book has been provided to me free of charge by the publisher in exchange for an honest review of the work.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Books.
Children's Books Heal 
This is a wonderful book to help kids understand autism. I love that Russell’s younger brothers seem to know when and when not to involve him. It is true that the younger children are exposed and understand, the easier they adapt, and cope. A great choice, Pat and thanks for sharing.
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Diane, I liked finding a non-fiction picture book on autism. The author does a nice job of sharing his own family in such a way kids can relate and understand the subject.
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Ooo, another good one for my ever-growing list! Just heard about Leah’s Voice yesterday … do you know that one? … sounds kind of like Russell. Thanks, Pat.
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Barbara, I’m glad you enjoyed the review. I liked that this book was a non-fiction PB. No, I haven’t read Leah’s Voice. I’ve reviewed so many of the PBs on the subject, so am open to titles other’s find.
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I critiqued a manuscript recently for someone who wrote about this subject. I’ll be sure to pass this along to her!
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Wendy, there was a flood of books and I’ve reviewed so many of them. Hope there will be more in the pipeline. It’s an important subject with more new info available.
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How nice to read a true story on the subject and what wonderful careers they all ended up with. Thanks for sharing, Pat.
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Catherine, I was happy to review a non-fiction book based on a doctor’s own experiences with his autistic son. And, I was so happy that Russell has his own business and leading a productive life. The transition into adulthood is important for kids with autism.
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Non fiction like this is useful for adults and children alike. Every story is different, but still, reading about an autistic sibling and his family will be helpful to many children. I am so glad you gave us an update 21 years later, Pat, on how the sibs are doing.
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Yes, for me that really made the book. Because Russell has his own job and is leading a productive life. Thought it time to share a non-fiction PB.
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Pat,
Beautiful job as always with this review. Thank you for sharing. The illustrations sound intriguing. I also enjoyed finding out what the brothers are doing now.
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Janie, I was pleased they showed a picture of the family and gave an update about the grown brothers. My interest tends to lean towards, “how are ASD kids going to transition into adulthood.” And, this story shows that at the end. The father needs to write another book.
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Pat,
I agree. That would also be a fascinating book!
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It is great that we know how this family has fared. Following the story through is so important and sends out such a positive message of hope to those learning about autism. Thanks, as always, for sharing.
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Niamh, I liked that they followed the story through so that we have a sense of how Russell is doing.
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That cover is spectacular! And the book sounds wonderful! I spend a lot of time with autistic individuals and I find them quite fascinating. At the schools that I go to, kids are mostly quite comfortable with the special needs kids that join their classes, but this book looks like it would be a good one to add to my library and share with them. Thanks for sharing!
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I thought the cover was magical — because the brothers are cuddling and giggling. I also like knowing what happened to Russell as a young man. On Apr. 2, I posted a list of books I’ve reviewed on ASD over two years, you might check that out too.
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Yes, I most certainly will! Thanks!
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I forgot that I did already save that list! Thanks Ms Tilton!
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There are a lot of great books on there. And, you only need to check my reviews to see which ones would work in the classroom. If you click on my right side bar, Autism Spectrum and Asperger’s, all of the books will appear.:)
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Thanks Ms Tilton!!
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Books like this are so helpful in helping my students understand a classmate with autism.
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Sandi, I’m happy you share books like Russell with your students. Understanding at different abilities at an early age is helpful to students.
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What a great book. I like the cover.
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Yes Erik, it is a great book cover and a helpful book!
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One family in our life has two children, one autistic, and the relationship between the two siblings is absolutely wonderful. Having a resource like this to help siblings understand and navigate their lives together is terrific. Thanks for sharing it!
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Thanks Craig. I’m glad you liked the choice. I’m glad the children you know have a strong relationship. I would like to see more resources for siblings. And, more stories written by siblings.
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Pat, this is a truly important book! It shows how the family was such an important anchor for this special child…and I love that we know the young man has joy in his life and a strong bond with his brothers. 🙂
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Yes, I enjoyed the book and liked that we know what happens to Russell as a young adult. This was a very loving and supportive family.
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