Waiting for Benjamin

July 1, 2008
Alexander is trying to work out his feelings for his younger brother, Benjamin, who is autistic. He is especially jealous that two teachers come each day to work with Benjamin. After Alexander finally acts out his rage by spilling water onto Benjamins bed, his father comes up with the idea of taking Alexander campingjust the two of them. Eventually, Alexander feels wanted again, and learns to appreciate Benjamin for the brother he is. The text has verb tense issues and the portrayals of the characters are inconsistent in the illustrations. An authors note at the beginning introduces the disorder to adults, but missing is a note for siblings that would explain more about the condition, including conversation starters to help the unafflicted sibling feel empowered to ask questions and discuss his or her feelings. However, this book is a serviceable introduction to having a younger sibling with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, especially given that there are few books for young children on this topic.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2008
PreS-Gr 2-Alexander tells about his life with his two-year-old brother, who is not yet verbal and who won't play with him. Benjamin also exhibits strange behaviors. Then he is diagnosed with autism. When two teachers come to the house to help him with his language and social skills, Alexander is jealous of the extra attention his brother receives. As time passes, Benjamin begins to develop some language and is now able to play with Alexander, who is no longer embarrassed to have friends over. Realistic illustrations depict the characters and their emotions. The story's message is obvious and direct, as well as somewhat unrealistic considering that not all youngsters will make the progress shown by Benjamin. Still, the book may be useful as an introduction for young children who have a sibling with this condition."Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD"

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2008
Alexander is frustrated by his two-year-old brother's developmental delays and resents the attention Benjamin receives after he's diagnosed with autism. After working with two home-based teachers for "a very long time," Benjamin's improved language and play skills make it easier for Alexander to consider him a friend. Static, overly bright paintings illustrate the wordy but possibly useful story.

(Copyright 2008 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)