A Friend for Henry

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2019

89%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Henry's looking for a friend who gets his need for order and quiet—and finds one without having to change a thing about himself.

A Friend for Henry

book

2019

89%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Henry's looking for a friend who gets his need for order and quiet—and finds one without having to change a thing about himself.

4.7

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Screenwise Verdict

This is exactly the kind of representation kids' literature needs—authentic, affirming, and genuinely useful for both autistic kids and their peers. Jenn Bailey and Mika Song earned that Schneider Family Honor Award.

The story doesn't force Henry to become 'less autistic' to deserve friendship, which is huge. He finds someone who appreciates his need for order and sameness, and that's the whole beautiful point. The 'too close and too loud' moments are depicted with real understanding of sensory overwhelm.

It's not the most imaginative plot—school, friend search, challenging day, resolution—but that familiarity is actually helpful for the target age. The real creativity is in perspective and authenticity. Strong pick for home and classroom libraries, especially as a conversation starter about neurodiversity and what friendship actually means.

Age Fit

Ideal for ages 3-8, especially in preschool and early elementary classrooms. The simple text works for young listeners, while the social-emotional themes resonate through second grade. Particularly valuable for kids navigating friendships or sensory challenges, and for any child learning about neurodiversity.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A gentle, affirming story that celebrates neurodivergent kids exactly as they are. Henry doesn't need to change to make friends—he finds someone who appreciates his need for order and sameness. Models authentic friendship, emotional regulation during overwhelming moments, and creates space for different ways of being in the world without preaching.

Imaginative

The story uses familiar school scenarios with warmth and humor, but it's not particularly inventive in structure or concept. Mika Song's illustrations add personality and visual interest. The real creativity is in perspective—showing the world through Henry's sensory experience ('too close and too loud')—which helps neurotypical kids imagine a different way of processing the world.

Safe

Completely age-appropriate for preschool through early elementary. No concerning content whatsoever. The 'too close and too loud' moments depict sensory overwhelm but in a reassuring, not frightening way. The book actually helps kids understand and navigate social anxiety and sensory challenges, making it a safety resource rather than a concern.

Enriching

Winner of the 2020 Schneider Family Honor Award for books depicting disability experience. Provides both mirror (for autistic kids) and window (for neurotypical kids) into autism spectrum experience. Builds empathy, validates different social and sensory needs, and shows that friendship doesn't require conformity. Particularly valuable for classroom settings to normalize neurodiversity. The representation is authentic and respectful without being clinical or didactic.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Award-winning representation that shows autistic kids they don't need to mask or change to deserve friendship
Helps neurotypical kids understand sensory overwhelm and different social needs without being preachy about it
The resolution is refreshingly authentic—Henry finds his person rather than forcing himself into the wrong friendship
Mika Song's illustrations capture the 'too close and too loud' moments with real empathy
Perfect for classroom read-alouds to normalize neurodiversity and different ways of being in the world

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What to Watch For

Some kids might need help understanding why certain things bother Henry—good opportunity to talk about sensory differences
The book depicts a challenging day for Henry but resolves positively, so sensitive kids won't be left worried

Conversation Starters

"Henry likes things to stay the same and all in order. What are some things that help you feel calm and comfortable?"
"Have you ever had a day where everything felt too loud or too close? What helps when you feel overwhelmed?"
"Why do you think Henry and his new friend are a good match? What makes someone a good friend for you?"
"Everyone's brain works a little differently. What are some things that are easy for you but might be hard for someone else?"

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A Friend for Henry – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise