Kids - What to Read

Do you love a good book? Our Children’s Librarians do! And we’re excited to share some great recommendations with you. This page gets updated regularly with reviews of the latest books we’ve been reading.

Way to Be Me

Authors: Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott

This book tells the story of 10-year-old Tally, who is navigating all the excitement, confusion and worry that comes with the last year of primary school, while also coming to terms with an autism diagnosis. With a talent for acting, Tally has her heart set on playing the lead in the Year 6 production. She sees this as her chance to shine and finally gain the approval of her friends and family who always seem to see her as a problem. When the role goes to someone else, Tally thinks the only way to get what she wants is to ‘fit in’ but she cannot keep up the act. Especially when her parents are intent on labelling her as different. This is a book about an autistic girl, written by an autistic girl! Twelve year-old author, Libby Scott, co-wrote this book based on her own experiences. She gives a heartfelt description of what it feels like when people don’t understand you, what happens when you pretend to be ‘normal’, meltdowns, getting a diagnosis, accepting yourself and finding your people. Ways to Be Me is a prequel to two other books by the same writers. This book would suit readers aged 9+.

You can find this book here.