Jo's Special Gifts Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Every child is unique in their own way and those on the autism spectrum are no exception. Let's find out what makes a little boy named Jo special in Mariam Shapera's newly released picture book Jo’s Special Gifts. Enter to win a book set autographed by the author, along with a Starbucks gift card!

My Review:

Based on the author's personal experience with parenting an autistic child, Jo’s Special Gifts is an uplifting and illuminating book that promotes neurodiversity, autism acceptance and positive parenting. Jo takes delight in reading about space, playing piano, watching spinning objects in action, and riding his favorite bike. Meanwhile, it takes time for him to adjust to changes or learn something new. He is not inclined to engage in a conversation unless the topic really interests him. He may express fear and anxiety by repeating certain words. But what matters most is that he always feels loved and cared for!

Written in rhymes and with great enthusiasm from the perspective of Jo, the book sheds light on how someone with autism thinks and behaves differently, and the kind of support and accommodations that can be provided to help kids with special gifts thrive and shine. It encourages young readers to pursue their passion and embrace diversity. It helps them understand the differences and challenges that their neurodivergent peers may experience. For parents with autistic children, it inspires them to help their little ones discover and cherish their unique talents, and build their confidence by cheering for their efforts as well as their achievements. Parents need to be patient, supportive, or simply be there when their kids need a shoulder to lean on.

Combining vibrant colors with vivid characters, the illustrations are cheerful and imaginative, reflecting the positive tone of the narrative while enriching the story with interesting details. Students with different ethnic backgrounds and physical conditions are thoughtfully represented in the classroom, where various devices can be found to help accommodate children with special needs. In the back of the book, the author also includes a guide to address common questions parents have about supporting a child on the spectrum.

Inspiring and informative, Jo's Special Gifts is a pleasure to read for all, as a sweet reminder of how special each and every one of us is.

About the Book:

Ages 4+ | 39 Pages
Publisher: Mariam Shapera | ISBN-13: 979-8-9896337-0-8

Join Jo, an enthusiastic, curious and sensitive boy, as he shares his autistic joys and challenges with you. This is an emotional journey that celebrates neurodiversity and embracing one’s own gifts. This heartwarming rhyming story celebrates the unique gifts that each person can bring to the world. You will love entering this amazing autistic brain as we celebrate Jo’s special gifts.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

About the Author:

Mariam Shapera who is a family doctor and Autism advocate, was raised in the United Kingdom but now lives in California with her husband and three children. ‘Having to learn to advocate for my autistic son, Jo, I wanted to combine my love for writing children’s books with my goal of increasing autism acceptance. I have observed countless times the way Jo pursues his interests and passions and the autistic joy they bring him. So this book was born.’

For more information, visit mariamshaperatales.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram.

About the Illustrator:

Lorna Humphreys lives in the United Kingdom with her partner, her two daughters and her cat. She works with authors all over the world and, through her illustrations, helps bring many wonderful stories to life. ‘My eldest daughter, Olivia, is autistic and struggles with social interaction and emotional regulation. When Mariam asked if I would collaborate with her, I was delighted to have the opportunity to illustrate a book that would mean so much to children like Jo and Olivia, to remind them of how special and gifted they are!’

Follow Lorna on Instagram.

One lucky Grand Prize winner will receive a signed hardcover copy of Jo’s Special Gifts, a signed copy of Mariam’s first book, Up Up You Go, Jo!, and a $25 Starbucks gift card!

Five additional winners will each receive a signed hardcover copy of Jo's Special Gifts!

Giveaway ends 5/24. Open to US only. Please enter below. Good luck!

Jo's Special Gifts: Book Giveaway

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Mariam Shapera. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.