#AdvocacyAugust: 10 JKP books to boost your advocacy skills

This August, take time to learn about advocacy! Whether you want to learn how to better stand up for yourself, others, or a cause, these books can support you on your advocacy journey.

Shake It Up! by Quincy Hansen

Does seeing an injustice light a fire within your soul? Do you have a burning passion to take action? If so, you may have the makings of an advocate.

This inspiring book by autistic blogger Quincy Hansen encourages autistic teens to find their voice and make a difference. Featuring interviews with young autistic change-makers and addressing issues like self-image, harmful stereotypes and communication barriers, Shake It Up! aims to build readers’ confidence while inspiring them to take action to change the world to be a better place. Learn more.

Wired Differently by Joe Wells

This collection of illustrated portraits celebrates the lives of influential neurodivergent figures who have achieved amazing things in recent times. The extraordinary stories in this book show the things they achieved not despite being different but because they are different. From politicians, activists, and journalists to YouTubers, DJs and poets, this book highlights a wide range of exciting career paths for neurodivergent readers. Learn more.

The Awesome Autistic Go-To Guide By Yenn Purkis and Tanya Masterman

Full of insights about being awesome and autistic, this book celebrates the strengths of understanding the world in a different way. It looks at all the reasons being you and thinking differently can be totally awesome! It also has tips for managing tricky situations. Additionally, the book includes fun activities and diary pages where you can write your thoughts and feelings to help you concentrate on your strengths and work on your challenges. Learn more.

The Awesome Autistic Guide for Trans Teens by Yenn Purkis and Sam Rose

Calling all awesome autistic trans teens! Yenn Purkis and Sam Rose want you to live your best authentic life – this handy book will show you how!

With helpful explanations, tips and activities, plus examples of famous trans and gender divergent people on the autism spectrum, this user-friendly guide will undoubtedly help you navigate the world as an awesome autistic trans teen.

Covers a huge range common issues trans and gender divergent people face and ways to help overcome them. It further builds a sense of pride to empower you to value yourself and thrive exactly as you are. Learn more.

You Can Change the World by Margaret Rooke

This inspirational book tells the stories of more than 50 of today’s teenagers who’ve dared to change the world. It’s been written to show other teens they can do the same. Bestselling author Margaret Rooke asks teens about their experiences of being volunteers, social entrepreneurs and campaigners, online and beyond. They explain how they have survived in a world often obsessed by celebrity, social media and appearance, by refusing to conform to other’s expectations.

If you want to achieve against the odds and create genuine impact, then this book may be the encouragement you need. Learn more.

The #ActuallyAutistic Guide to Advocacy by Jennifer Brunton and Jennifer Gensic

The #ActuallyAutistic Guide to Advocacy takes an in-depth look at the key elements of effective, respectful, inclusive advocacy and allyship. Every topic was chosen, shaped, and informed by #ActuallyAutistic perspectives.

The step-by-step guide discusses various aspects of how autism is perceived, explores how best to speak up for individual needs, and introduces advocacy for the wider autistic community. Each step outlines one vital aspect of advocacy and allyship, such as emphasizing acceptance, avoiding assumptions and assuming competence. Learn more.

Check out author Jennifer Brunton’s blog here.

The Asperkid’s (Secret) Book of Social Rules by Jennifer Cook

Being a teen or tween is tough for anyone. And if you’re on the Autism Spectrum, life can feel like a game you’re playing without knowing the rules. Jennifer Cook knows – she’s been there! Her internationally bestselling handbook is the key to unlocking those unwritten, often confusing, not-so-obvious social guidelines and bolstering confidence, all at once. Learn more.

Check out Jennifer’s website!

The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook by Haley Moss

Are you living away from home for the first time, graduating from school or perhaps getting a new job? These transitions can be especially overwhelming to deal with as a young autistic adult. This survival guide is certainly bursting with neurodivergent-friendly advice from autistic people themselves (and a few neurotypicals too) for young adults embarking on their own journeys of self-discovery and independence. From guidance on organising your own money to tips on self-advocacy and important life skills, Haley Moss has you covered. Learn more.

Haley’s website can be found here.

The Autism and Neurodiversity Self-Advocacy Handbook by Barb Cook and Yenn Purkis

Being autistic, you might come across more challenges than others around you. Therefore, learning to successfully self-advocate will help you to build confidence, strengthen your relationships and ensure your needs are met.

Written by two autistic activists, this book will give you the tools and strategies to advocate for yourself in any situation. Learn more.

The Spectrum Girl’s Survival Guide by Siena Castellon

Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards – Silver Medal Winner
Nautilus Silver Book Award Winner
Purple Dragonfly Book Awards – First Place

This essential go-to guide gives you all the advice and tools you’ll need to help you flourish and achieve what you want in life. From the answers to everyday questions such as ‘Am I using appropriate body language?’ and ‘Did I say the wrong thing?’, through discussing the importance of understanding your emotions, looking after your physical and mental health and coping with anxiety and sensory overloads, award-winning neurodiversity campaigner Siena Castellon uses her own experiences to provide you with the skills to overcome any challenge. Learn more.

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