A Friend for Henry

 

Bibliography

Bailey, J. (2019). A friend for Henry. Chronicle Books.

ISBN

978-1452171333

Plot Summary

A Friend for Henry follows Henry, a young boy with autism, as he starts a new school year and hopes to find a friend. Henry carefully observes the other children, looking for someone who enjoys the same things he does and understands him. After several unsuccessful attempts, he meets a classmate who appreciates him for who he is. The story highlights friendship, patience, kindness, and the importance of accepting others' differences

Critical Analysis

A Friend for Henry provides an authentic and respectful portrayal of a child with autism. Henry is not defined by his diagnosis. Instead, readers get to know him through his thoughts, routines, and the way he experiences the world. I think this helps readers better understand autism while also seeing that Henry enjoys many of the same things other children do.

One thing I really liked about this book is that it shows friendship takes time. Henry wants a friend, but he also wants someone who accepts him for who he is. The story reminds readers that everyone has different personalities, interests, and ways of communicating, and those differences should be respected.

The illustrations play an important role in telling the story. They help readers understand Henry's emotions and the way he notices details that others may overlook. I think the pictures make it easier to understand his perspective without needing a lot of extra words.

Overall, I think A Friend for Henry is a thoughtful story about kindness, inclusion, and accepting differences. One thing I appreciated most was that Henry didn't have to change who he was to make a friend. Instead, he found someone who accepted him just as he was, which is an important message for young readers.

Review Excerpts

"A gentle and compassionate story about friendship and inclusion." — School Library Journal

"An honest and heartwarming portrayal of a child on the autism spectrum." — Booklist

"A beautifully told story that encourages empathy and understanding." — Kirkus Reviews

Awards and Recognitions

Schneider Family Book Award Honor Book - 2020

Bank Street Best Children's Books of the Year-  2020

Charlotte Zolotow Highly Commended Title-  2020

Connections

• Discuss what makes a good friend and how everyone has different strengths and interests.

• Have students write about a time someone showed them kindness or included them in an activity.