This beautiful, lyrical tale depicts the imaginative world of an autistic boy and reminds readers to appreciate and embrace those different from ourselves.

In my opinion, this is a very good children’s book. First, this book pushes readers to think about differences between our peers and inclusion. Second, the language is very descriptive. For example, “I hear it all like one big noise. A big drum. Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom.” This quote applies to a readers sense of hearing. Lastly, the illustrations are very simple as well as the writing. The simple writing and illustrations add to the overall message of the story and make it pure and powerful adding to the boy’s shy personality. The overall message of this story is to show that any person or child who is different or isolated can still find things within themselves and are important to the world. It also emphasizes the importance of inclusion.

This book does a great job of trying to inform others of what life on the autism spectrum is like. This book wants to show the perspective of the child and how all they want others to know is that they are also here and have importance. This story is charming and endearing as it tries to let the readers understand the misunderstood. ( )

This book beautifully captures the importance of acceptance of all people, notably people with disabilities. It speaks to children who struggle in finding friends and/or children who seek to be loved and heard as the people they are- a notion that is applicable to all people. This book excels in its plot, illustrations, and writing, three features which I enjoyed most about this book.

The plot follows a young child who struggles to connect with his peers, but finds comfort in his own mind and imagination- a place that is quiet and free. I enjoyed the organization of the plot and the way it flowed page by page. Each scene introduced is in the perspective of the child and flows smoothly into his next thought, even though the transitions may not be so clear in the boy’s mind.

The illustrations were very simple, yet profound in the way that they drew the reader into every detail. I especially like the use of watercolor in the scenes where the boy is being transported by his imagination, granting a sense of exploration and fluidity in the pages. Because of their simplicity and creativity, the illustrations connect with the reader, even if the text were not present.

The writing however is a feature that I enjoyed so much in this book, as it was clear and utilized words that any reader can comprehend. This feature is so important and lends itself further to the way the book is able to connect to readers. A sample of writing that I really enjoyed was the section where the boy explains, “I hear it all like one big noise. A big drum. Boom. Boom. Boom. Boom.” This writing sample is so clear and transports the reader into the mind of this boy so effortlessly.

The main message of acceptance and the way the book so easily connects to readers is reason enough to demonstrate the wonder that is “I’m Here”. When accompanied with a stellar plot, captivating illustrations, and profound writing, this book is truly one of a kind. ( )

Loved it. This book reminded me so much of myself as a child, and I wish I would have been able to read it then. It's just lovely. ( )