I Don’t Like Birthday Parties

Gaspari sheds light on sensory sensitivity in this heartfelt picture book, which centers Lucas, a light brown–skinned boy who dislikes the overwhelming atmosphere endemic of birthday parties: “Every party was the same. Loud! Crowded. Chaotic.” Despite his deep desire to enjoy parties as his peers do, Lucas’s latest party invitation leads to the same experiences: discomfort at loud noises and music, the slimy feeling of temporary tattoos, getting jostled by other children in the bounce house, and the bright flashes of cameras. But with the help of dark-haired, light-skinned “Kate from his class,” Lucas realizes that there might be a way to celebrate that better suits him. Gaspari grounds the text with evocative descriptions and accessible dialogue as Kalla’s warm, simple pencil and watercolor illustrations depict dot-eyed children of varying abilities, skin tones, and hair textures. A gentle encouragement of adaptation over assimilation for those who experience sensory overload. Back matter features a note from a consultant clinical psychologist. Ages 5–8. (Sept.)