There is something truly magical about reading a bedtime story to your child. It’s a moment of connection, comfort, and imagination—a time where little minds explore big worlds through the pages of a book.
For me, these moments became even more meaningful when reading to my son. As a mother to an autistic, nonverbal child, our bedtime routine was not just about stories—it was about connection in its purest form. But as I turned page after page, night after night, I began to notice something that stayed heavy on my heart.
Where were the stories about children like him?
Why Representation Matters
Children learn about the world through stories. They learn what is “normal,” what is possible, and where they fit in. When a child never sees themselves reflected in the stories they read, it can quietly send the message that they don’t belong.
Representation in children’s books is not just important—it is essential.
For children with autism and other disabilities, seeing characters who think, feel, and experience the world like they do can be incredibly powerful. It tells them:
You are seen.
You are understood.
You are enough.
At the same time, these stories help other children learn empathy, kindness, and acceptance. They open the door to conversations that might not happen otherwise and help build a more inclusive generation.
The Inspiration Behind “This is Harry”
“This is Harry” was born from a place of love, curiosity, and a deep desire to make a difference.
I wanted to create a story that gently explains autism from a child’s point of view—something simple, warm, and easy to understand. A story that doesn’t focus on limitations, but instead celebrates differences.
Harry experiences the world in his own unique way. Through colourful illustrations and soft, thoughtful storytelling, readers are invited into his world—his sounds, his feelings, his way of communicating, and his way of seeing beauty in things others might overlook.
This is not just Harry’s story. It is the story of so many children who experience the world differently.
More Than Just a Book
Creating this book was never just about writing a story. It was about creating something meaningful—something that could help children feel accepted and help families feel understood.
As a full-time working mom, I never imagined that I would one day hold my own children’s book in my hands. The journey was emotional, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. Every word, every idea, every page was built on love, perseverance, and purpose.
“This is Harry” represents more than a dream come true—it represents a message:
Different is not less.
Different is beautiful.
Building a More Inclusive Future
We all have a role to play in shaping the way children see the world. The stories we share with them today will influence how they treat others tomorrow.
By choosing books that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and understanding, we are helping raise children who are kinder, more compassionate, and more accepting of differences.
And that is the kind of world we all want to live in.
A Message From My Heart
To every parent, teacher, and caregiver reading this—thank you for being part of a child’s story.
And to every child who has ever felt different:
You are special.
You are important.
You are perfectly you.
“This is Harry” is for you.
With love,
Maryke Cawood 🤍✨📚