Workplaces should strive to make everyone feel seen, including neurodiverse employees, while they work. One way many people feel seen and understood is when they see themselves and their experiences reflected in books. Your workplace can start a book club to read books together from diverse perspectives. For Autism Awareness Month in April, you can even read books about autism to foster a deeper understanding with neurodiverse colleagues. We have three suggestions below for books your workplace should read for Autism Awareness Month.
“The Reason I Jump” by Naoki Higashida
Translated from the original Japanese, this eye-opening account provides a window into the mind of a 13-year-old boy with autism. By channeling his thoughts through an alphabet grid, Naoki dismantles preconceptions with his poignant explanations of why he acts the way he does. It’s a myth-buster and empathy-builder that will resonate with and enlighten your team.
“NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and How to Think Smarter About People Who Think Differently” by Steve Silberman
This groundbreaking book takes the reader through the history of autism, offering a broader context and advocating for appreciating neurological differences as natural human variations. It’s a magnificent testament to the potential within the neurodiverse community and a call to embrace all kinds of minds.
“Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism” by Temple Grandin
Grandin’s memoir provides an introspective look at her life with autism and her rise as one of the world’s most accomplished and well-known adults with autism. Her distinct perception challenges readers to understand and appreciate the unique ways in which people with autism view the world. Your workplace book club will benefit from reading her story.
These books your workplace should read during Autism Awareness Month are just the beginning of neurodiversity in fiction and nonfiction. Businesses looking for ways to reach their full potential should ensure they are encouraging employee engagement. A great way to achieve this is through making sure all employees feel seen and are in sync with one another. Do more research to discover other books your employees may enjoy reading that will help them understand different perspectives and bring them together as a team.
