ALL MY STRIPES by Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer
HARDCOVER
Authors: Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer
Illustrator: Jennifer Zivoin
ALL MY STRIPES: A STORY FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM, introduces us to Zane, a young zebra who worries that his classmates only notice his “autism stripe” and overlook all the other things that make him who he is.
Feeling misunderstood, Zane confides in his mother, who gently reminds him that his autism is just one of many stripes; alongside his kindness, creativity, and unique talents. This reassuring message helps Zane embrace his full identity, and the book closes with a helpful caregiver’s guide that offers insights into autism spectrum disorders and ways to support children who feel different.
Jennifer Zivoin’s warm, expressive illustrations capture Zane’s emotions in a way that is both simple and deeply relatable. The artwork avoids clutter, giving children space to focus on Zane’s journey, while adding an extra layer of empathy and connection.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emotional accessibility. It approaches a sensitive topic in a child-friendly, reassuring way that speaks to both neurodiverse and neurotypical children. The narrative encourages readers to see autism not as a limitation, but as one part of a person’s whole identity. This positive framing helps foster empathy, inclusion, and understanding, not just for children on the spectrum, but for their peers as well.
Whether you’re looking to support a child on the autism spectrum or teach all children about empathy and acceptance, this book makes a meaningful and uplifting addition to any collection. A must-have for parents and educators who want to celebrate individuality and kindness.