Milly’s Mind: a peek inside autism
Colin and Milly Armstrong
Little Steps Publishing June 2024
It has been such a privilege and joy to illustrate Milly's Mind A Peek Inside Autism. A children's book by Milly and her father Colin, offers a first-person, rhyming perspective on living with Autism Spectrum Condition. It explains how Milly perceives the world, her daily challenges, and joys, aiming to increase understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity for children, parents, and educators. The book is praised for its positive, joyful tone and its use as a tool for teaching kindness and acceptance.
“Huh, so all those times I tried to get you to look us in the eye, that was stopping you from listening?”
“Well yeah, kinda. Your eyes pulled me away from your voice.”
Colin Armstrong
Author of Milly’s Mind
“It took time to find the right illustrator for Milly’s Mind. This book is not only a celebration of neurodiversity; it is a story of love, connection, and the deep bond between my daughter and me. The illustrations needed to hold all of that. After weeks of searching through illustrator profiles and portfolios, I discovered Jo McGivern’s work - and felt an immediate sense of relief. I knew I had finally found the illustrator we needed. Jo’s illustrations radiate warmth, emotion, and love, and that was exactly the quality we were looking for.
Working with Jo was a joy from the very beginning. She took the time to truly know both Milly and me, and she immediately understood the soul of the story. Jo approached the work with care, curiosity, and generosity, collaborating closely and offering thoughtful, inspired ideas along the way. We feel incredibly lucky that Jo chose to illustrate Milly’s Mind. Through her beautiful watercolours, she brought our story to life and captured Milly’s spirit with honesty, tenderness, and grace.”
Catherine Faherty
Internationally renowned autism trainer, teacher, speaker, advocate and best-selling author
“Immediately what first captured my attention were the illustrations. These delightful watercolours by Jo McGivern, gracing each page, invited me into the story with their simple ease and charm. Even before I began reading, I was enamoured with this uncomplicated visual richness of the book.”
Sue Larkey
Educator, author and advocate for autism
“Through beautiful illustrations and delightful rhyming words the book explains Autism Spectrum Condition. Each page delicately depicts the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum, while also celebrating their unique strengths and perspectives. It encourages understanding and acceptance of differences, promoting a sense of belonging for all children, regardless of neurodiversity, and embraces diversity.”
From Amazon reviews:
“This charming and beautifully illustrated book, gives a wonderful and powerful insight into the highs and lows of the life of an autistic girl called Milly.”
“What a beautiful book - the words are in rhyme (Milly’s choice) and the illustrations are captivating.”
“Bought this on a recommendation and very glad I did. Highly recommend this to anyone with even a passing interest in the subject matter. The artwork is gorgeous as well which makes this book an absolute winner.”
“This beautiful book is a celebration, a revelation.”
“This book is just gorgeous.”
“A beautiful and necessary book for our times.”
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