"Ian's Walk"

“Ian’s Walk” by Laurie Lears is a heartwarming tale of sisters and their younger brother with autism. It is a simple story but tells a lot about not only autism but relationships between brothers and sisters. Ian and his older sisters, Tara and Julie, go into town to feed the ducks in the park. Throughout their trip in town, Laurie Lears paints a realistic portrait of what it is like for a child with autism. When the sisters reach the park, they realize that Ian has wandered off. It is then that we see true panic from the girls as they fear they have lost him. Eventually Tara finds Ian under the big bell in the park but this particular situation is a wonderful instance to show true emotions for those who care for those with a disability. One reason I really recommend this book is because of the range of emotions the characters go through. When they are leaving the house, Tara does not necessarily want Ian to come along. She shows frustration and embarrassment when Ian sniffs the brick wall or eats cereal rather than pizza. Tara then shows panic when she loses him and relief, love and acceptance after locating her younger brother. This book also presents realistic brother and sister relationships throughout the story. Even though Ian has autism, Tara gets upset with him just as any sister would with her younger brother. Despite his challenges and what she sees as some embarrassing behavior, she still loves him no matter what. This shows in her desperate attempt to find her brother. The pictures in this story are amazing and add to the dialogue. They are realistic just as the plot and draw the reader in. The way Laurie Lears describes Ian’s world is completely understandable for young readers as well. It will help the young readers relate their thoughts with Ian’s allowing them to better understand autism. I would recommend this book to anyone and will include it in my own diverse library for my classroom.