MY BRAIN IS MAGIC

A vivacious young narrator takes readers on a tour of their sensory-seeking brain.

The protagonist, a brown-skinned, bespectacled child who sports a blue jumper dress and striped leggings and wears their short brown hair in two buns, explains their “magic” brain, which they compare to a variety of animals. When their brain feels like a bee, it makes them buzz about. When their brain is an octopus, they want to “touch everything!” When their brain is a lion, it’s time to be loud. These and other behaviors are presented as a part of the magic of their brain. The child also mentions calming activities that they do when their brain becomes overwhelmed. The tone is positive and nonjudgmental even when the child is crashing into mom and dad or making a soap bubble mess. This story would be relatable and validating to many young readers with ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergence that leads them to exhibit sensory-seeking behaviors (examples in Sooful’s author’s note include a desire for movement or oral sensory input, like cold or crunchy foods). This celebration of neurodivergence (though it never uses the word) promotes safe ways for young kids to get their sensory needs met. The text is pithy but lively, good for reading aloud. The art is expressive and colorful, with lots of warm pinks and oranges. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A sweet, energetic book that can help neurodivergent kids understand their brains better.