Waiting for Benjamin: A Story about Autism

Altman, Alexandra Jessup. Waiting for Benjamin A Story about Autism. Albert Whitman & Company, 2008. ISBN: 9780807573648.


Alexandra Jessup Altman is a Senior Interventionist for the Autism Spectrum Program for the HowardCenter for Human Services; therefore, with her background knowledge she was able to create a realistic fiction book with a heart wrenching, emotional account of how a big brother, Alexander, deals with his brother Ben’s diagnosis of autism. Altman takes the reader on an emotionally narrative roller coaster leaving one empathetic, understanding, and enlightened into the trials and tribulations an entire family faces upon diagnosis. “Zander” experiences anger, embarrassment in front of friends, envy of the attention and praise Ben receives, and frustration. The text flows smoothly leaving one eager for a contented ending. The pictures are boldly colored paintings with vivid brushstrokes, yet Susan Keeter (illustrator) is still able to capture detailed, telling facial expressions of the characters. Due to Altman’s experiences, she is able to portray reasonable emotions for adults, kids, and teachers who are dealing with acceptance of a disability. This book can easily be used as a read aloud for K-2 or as an independent read for 3-6, but regardless of age Waiting for Benjamin is sure to lead to meaningful, deep discussion where kids can feel free to express how they relate to the characters.

Kerry Fatzinger, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950