I am a parent to a 14 year old. They are very classically intelligent but struggle with empathy. Last year they were diagnosed with autism which opened up discussions to struggles they are facing. They have told me that they struggle to empathize with others and with vocalizing their feelings in general. Unfortunately this has been negatively impacting relationships (ours as well as others). So I’d like to have a book that we could potentially read together. I think that might help us bond and if I could learn a thing or two I would appreciate that.
Nothing gendered, please, they identify as nonbinary and have a hard time relating to others—so something targeted towards women or men will be harder for them to relate to.
by milky_latte_
3 Comments
Dont know if it would be right for them but there is a book called Almond by Sohn Won-Pyung that is a fiction book about a young neurodivergent boy who as underdeveloped amygdala which makes him struggle to feel and name emotions. It wont necessarily help but may be educational for you or relatable for your child.
My favorite book about empathy is a children’s picture book called The Rabbit Listened. Simple and so sweet. The main character is androgynous with the name Taylor, which I appreciate, since I also have a non binary kiddo.
Another book I love is called Jude Saves the World. It’s realistic fiction about a non binary kid and their relationships with their friends, mom, and grandparents. So not about empathy per say, but might facilitate good conversations. My kids loved it.
I have heard good things about “Born for Love” by a child psychologist but cannot speak to whether it’s appropriate to read with your child. Perhaps check it out at the library and see what you think?
[https://bookshop.org/p/books/born-for-love-why-empathy-is-essential-and-endangered-maia-szalavitz/16021217?ean=9780061656798](https://bookshop.org/p/books/born-for-love-why-empathy-is-essential-and-endangered-maia-szalavitz/16021217?ean=9780061656798)