I liked this book, but I wish it had more of an explanation of why Louis acted the way he did. I did like that the author showed what Louis was capable of- drawing, playing outside, and then playing in a soccer game. I think this book would be good for young children to learn why someone in their class may need special attention; for example, a student who needs a classroom helper during the day. I would have liked more interactions with Louis and the other students, but also a more detailed explanation from Ms. Owlie, the teacher. Overall, it was a cute book, but not as informative as I had hoped. ( )

Louis is new in school and has autism he does not play soccer with others but instead runs through the game. One day the kids start following Louis' lead and realize he understands more than they realized. This story was great at helping a kid try to understand why sometimes the rules can be different for someone who needs special help. It also showed the kids entering into Louis' world instead of forcing him to be a part of what they were doing. It does not mention autism explicitly in the book but it does a good job at conveying realistic children's reactions and situations when engaging with someone with autism. I would recommend this book for a kinder-2nd grade classroom. ( )

This book shows a classroom in which a child with Autistic Spectrum Disorder is included. the label is never mentioned in the book, Louis, the character, displays the behavior called 'echolalia', strongly associated with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, or A.S.D. The children in the class are welcoming and try to include Louis. One day they gain insight into his seemingly abstract drawings and atypical playground behavior, which leads to a breakthrough in social interaction for Louis- he wants to play soccer like all of the other boys. (Not sure why only the boys are playing soccer! One breakthrough milestone at a time, I suppose!) One of the most valuable aspects of this read are that it shows children not only being tolerant and kind to someone different from them, it shows how they seek to include him on a daily basis, investigate into his unique communication style and accept him for who he is. ( )

Louis is a young boy with Autism. His classmates notice that he is different, but get to know him better through a game of soccer. I thought this book gave a good example of how inclusion can be successful. Although Louis has Autism, he is able to make connections with his classmates. I will say the book highlighted more of the differences between Louis and his classmates than the similarities, but I think the message at the end compensates for that. ( )

This book was sweet and I really loved how the students were welcoming and kind to Louis. They always included him in activities even though they knew he was a little different. This is something kids need to learn at an early age, we need to teach students to be kind and accepting of kids that are different. ( )