My Brother Sammy
What’s inside...
In a beautifully illustrated picture book, a boy describes the various feelings he has about his younger brother Sammy, who is autistic. Sammy doesn't attend the same school and has different ways of experiencing the world, such as lying under a tree and watching leaves instead of playing in the park. Initially, the older brother is frustrated by Sammy's differences, but eventually learns to appreciate and accept Sammy's unique perspective. This heartfelt story, intended for children ages 4-8, highlights the challenges and eventual acceptance of having an autistic sibling.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Sammy feels when he does things differently from other people?
Why is it important to help and understand family members, even if they're different?
What are some ways you can be a good friend or sibling to someone who has different needs?
How do you think Sammy's brother feels throughout the story and why?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a safe and open environment where your child feels comfortable expressing thoughts and emotions. Validate their feelings and perspectives to deepen their understanding and empathy. Use personal experiences or familial examples when discussing the themes to make them more relatable and tangible for your child. Encourage them to think about how they can apply the learned values from the story in their own life, fostering a sense of responsibility and kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: In 'My Brother Sammy', the story revolves around Sammy's brother learning to understand and accept Sammy's autism. The narrative gently introduces the concept of neurodiversity as Sammy interacts differently with the world around him.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize that everyone has unique strengths and challenges. This understanding can encourage them to be more empathetic and inclusive towards peers who may act, speak, or learn differently in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Patience
Explanation: The protagonist demonstrates patience as he navigates his relationship with Sammy, who requires more time to respond and engage. This portrayal showcases the virtue of waiting and supporting others at their own pace.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that some situations or interactions require patience, and that being patient can be a way to show support and care for others in school or in play.
Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: Despite the challenges, the bond between Sammy and his brother is strong and filled with love. The story highlights how familial relationships can provide support and stability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of nurturing family relationships, teaching them to cherish and support family members, including siblings, in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Expression of Love in Diverse Ways
Explanation: The book illustrates how Sammy and his brother express their love for each other in different ways, adapted to their individual personalities and needs.
Real-World Application: Children learn that expressing affection and love isn’t one-size-fits-all. Recognizing diverse expressions of love helps them appreciate and accept the unique ways people show they care.