I Am Me: Matthew’s Story About Autism by Dyna Matial | A Heartwarming Celebration of Inclusion Book Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — A Joyful Celebration of Identity, Kindness & Inclusion

Some children’s books teach.

Some children’s books inspire.

I Am Me: Matthew’s Story About Autism does both.

Written by Dyna Matial and beautifully illustrated by Titan Fahmi, this colorful picture book introduces readers to Matthew—a bright, curious boy who experiences the world a little differently. Instead of focusing on autism as a limitation, the story celebrates Matthew’s unique personality while helping children understand that everyone experiences life in their own way.

For parents, educators, therapists, and young readers alike, this book delivers an encouraging message: differences deserve understanding, acceptance, and celebration.

Matthew introduces himself just like any other child.

He loves:

• Dinosaurs

• Trains

• Bright colors

• Bananas

Before readers ever hear the word “autism,” they first get to know Matthew as a fun, relatable little boy.

That storytelling choice immediately builds empathy.

Throughout the story, Matthew explains how autism affects him in simple, age-appropriate language.

Readers learn that:

• Loud classrooms sometimes feel overwhelming.

• Covering his ears helps him stay calm.

• Routines help him feel safe.

• Hand flapping is how he expresses excitement.

• Making friends can sometimes be difficult.

• Looking away doesn’t mean he isn’t listening.

These moments help children understand behaviors they may see in classmates or friends without making Matthew feel “different” in a negative way.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its positive representation.

Matthew never asks readers to feel sorry for him.

Instead, he confidently explains who he is.

One of the book’s most memorable moments comes near the end:

“I am different, but so is everyone else.”

Followed by:

“That is what makes the world amazing.”

Those two pages beautifully summarize the entire message of the book.

Illustrator Titan Fahmi fills every page with colorful artwork that keeps young readers engaged.

Highlights include:

• Expressive characters

• Diverse classrooms

• Playground scenes

• Bright sensory-friendly colors

• Warm family environments

• Friendly facial expressions

The illustrations work hand-in-hand with the text to make emotional moments easy for children to understand.

Unlike many picture books, I Am Me continues teaching after the story ends.

Children will also find:

• A “What Makes You Special?” reflection page

• Dinosaur-themed coloring pages

• Simple Autism Facts for Kids

The autism facts are especially well written, explaining that:

Autism is one way a brain can work.

Some autistic people love patterns, details, or certain topics.

Every brain is unique.

These pages encourage discussion between children, parents, and teachers while reinforcing the book’s message of inclusion.

Books shape how children see the world.

When children learn early that differences are normal, they grow into adults who are more compassionate, patient, and inclusive.

This book doesn’t simply explain autism.

It teaches empathy.

And that’s what makes it special

⭐ Storytelling — 5/5

⭐ Autism Representation — 5/5

⭐ Illustrations — 5/5

⭐ Educational Value — 5/5

⭐ Diversity & Inclusion — 5/5

⭐ Classroom Friendly — 5/5

⭐ Parent Discussion Starter — 5/5

⭐ Interactive Activities — 5/5

I Am Me: Matthew’s Story About Autism succeeds because it introduces children to a person before introducing them to a diagnosis. Matthew’s honesty, curiosity, and confidence remind readers that autism is one part of who someone is—not the whole story.

With engaging illustrations, thoughtful educational content, and interactive activities, Dyna Matial has created a book that belongs in homes, classrooms, libraries, and therapy offices alike.

For families looking to introduce autism through kindness rather than stereotypes, this is an excellent place to begin.

Recommended for:

• Parents

• Teachers

• Elementary Classrooms

• School Libraries

• Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Counselors

• Autism Awareness Programs

• Inclusion-Focused Book Collections