cover image Point to Happy: A Book for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Point to Happy: A Book for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Miriam Smith and Afton Fraser, photos by Margo Smithwick. Workman, $19.95 (40p) ISBN 978-0-7611-5715-1

The mother-daughter team of Smith and Fraser has created a book designed to strengthen the communication and social skills of children on the autism spectrum. Printed on heavy cardstock, it features photographs of children displaying different emotions, activities, and simple concepts; a plastic pointer, attached by ribbon, allows children to point to the children as directed. "The boy is thirsty," reads the text above a box drinking from a juice box. "Point to thirsty." The concepts grow increasingly complex, as children master the basics; family photos can be placed on the final spread to tailor the book to individual families. It's a smart and valuable resource. Ages 2%E2%80%93up. (Apr.)