Review by Booklist Review
In an honest, simple narrative, young Callie talks about how much she loves her autistic twin brother, Charlie, and how much they share. As she explains what autism is and how her family cares for Charlie, she also speaks frankly about challenges. The mixed-media illustrations, in bright, opaque colors, show the loving connections in Callie's African American family, as well as the tension and anger. Charlie does so many things well: he plays the piano, for example. Sometimes he supports his sister, and he has an incredible bond with their dog. Still, there are days when it's hard to be Charlie's sister. . . . Sometimes he can ruin the best playdates; other times he won't speak. Warm but never sentimental, this welcome picture book is based on the mother-and-daughter authors' experiences, and a beautiful photo of the authors' family appears on the back cover, while a personal concluding note offers more facts. A great choice for introducing the subject of autism to young children or for starting discussion in any family dealing with disability.--Rochman, Hazel Copyright 2010 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
This mother-daughter author team base their thoughtful and moving story on their experiences living with Ryan's autistic brother, RJ. Callie, a candid narrator whose twin brother is autistic, explains that "Charlie's brain works in a special way." She mentions the boy's strong will ("When Charlie wants something, nothing stops him. Even when it's dangerous") and tendency to withdraw into his own world, acknowledging that "there are days when it's hard to be Charlie's sister." Yet she also documents Charlie's talents and the good times they share. Her often-silent brother has taught Callie important lessons, among them "love doesn't always come from what you say. It can also come from what you do." Throughout, Callie demonstrates maturity and loyalty: "We love Charlie strong. We watch over him with the might of angels. We have to." Equally expressive, Evans's (When Gorilla Goes Walking) mixed-media art features closeup images of the siblings and their parents and conveys the wide range of emotions all experience. The authors' postscripts offer background and advice for families dealing with someone with autism. Ages 6-10. (Mar.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2-Twins Callie and Charlie have a lot in common, but they are also very different: Charlie has autism. Callie narrates the story, describing what autism is and exploring the issues that come along with it. The theme is of love, patience, and acceptance. Endnotes give a few basic facts for children unfamiliar with the disorder. The authors, a mother-daughter team, based this story on personal experience. Evans's bright, mixed-media illustrations skillfully depict the family's warmth and concern. Pair this with Ouisie Shapiro's Autism and Me: Sibling Stories (Albert Whitman, 2009) to raise awareness and understanding of autism. This title should have a place in most library collections.-Laura Butler, Mount Laurel Library, NJ (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
Callie describes similarities and differences between herself and her twin brother, Charlie, who has autism. While the text strains for a child's voice (even though it was co-written by then-twelve-year-old Ryan Elizabeth), the story does eloquently highlight the love between the siblings. Attractive art with visible brushstrokes and large-eyed characters accompanies the tale, based on actress Peete's real family. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Mother and daughter co-authors write about the experience of having an autistic child in the family. Callie, Charlie's twin sister, talks directly to readers, telling them how she and her brother are alike and about the fundamental differences that led her mother to seek medical advice for Charlie. Callie very plainly talks about the joys and frustrations of having Charlie for a brother and emotionally reveals the many ways Charlie has of showing his family the "I love yous" that his autism tries to lock inside. Most evident is the pride Callie has in Charlie. She clearly sees him as a person, with personality and interests, who is smart and caring. "If you ever get to meet my brother, you'll feel lucky to be his friend." Endnotes from the authors tell more of the Peete family story. Evans's mixed-media artwork employs a lot of texture, adding patterning and interest to the simple, uncluttered design. Full-bleed illustrations and up-close views of the characters make this a great choice for group sharing. A seldom-seen perspective on autism delivered concisely and with empathy. (Picture book. 6-10) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
