Chelsea Luker (text), and Eliza Fricker (illustrator), Square Me, Round World, Lightning Source Inc, Mar 2024, 106 pp., RRP $29.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780648605515
Stories of growing up in a world not built for you.
How I rejoiced when this book came across my desk! I have spent many, many hours scouring the internet searching for a book that would perfectly detail what it is like for neurodivergent children to navigate this tricky world that is just not built for them. How to encourage a neurodivergent kid to persevere in a world that makes no sense, in a world that makes them feel so different? How to remind them that there is nothing wrong with them, that they are wonderful the way they are? How to honestly tell them that they will face adversity, they will face daily challenges, but that if they remain true to themselves, they will find that this world needs their individuality, their unique perspective, and that they are not alone on their journey?
Not only has Chelsea Luker delivered a book that covers all of these different aspects of neurodiversity, but she has broken them into smaller, accessible stories; each one touching on the very common and specific hurdles that neurodivergent children (and people in general – this book easily extends to teenagers and adults) face each day. The stories explore feeling different (while accepting that you are different), finding your tribe, masking, reading social cues, translating instructions, feeling overwhelmed (leading to burn out), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), and the profound exhaustion that comes with a brain that is perpetually fighting an uphill battle against a world not built for neurodiversity.
This book could help a child recognise traits and symptoms of neurodiversity for which they could not find the words to describe to parents and teachers. This book can help children already diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) – or any person who identifies as being under the neurodivergent umbrella – see that their challenges are very real, not uncommon, and not something to be ashamed or embarrassed by. This book can enlighten parents, guardians, therapists, and teachers, and assist in seeing into the minds of their younger charges and see things from their perspective – because although it is written by an adult, the topics and feelings are very much from the minds and experiences of younger people. This book can bridge the gap between experience (of children) and understanding (by peers, parents, guardians, and teachers) in a way that will help shape better relationships for neurodivergent kids, now and for the future.
At the back of the book is a thoughtful and considerate discussion guide, a “for more information” section, and notes about the author and illustrator. Kids might overlook these, but I would urge any reader to look through and appreciate the detail of information offered, to access additional important resources, and to read about Chelsea Luker’s background and why she felt this book was needed in our community.
Square Me, Round World is inspirational. It is a testament to Chelsea’s dedication to the cause, where she believes in the profound power of understanding and empathy to bring about social change. Through this book she aims to articulate experiences that might be elusive to some, with the intention of fostering dialogues that lead to shared understanding. Chelsea’s articulation is spot on, and with this book now out there for everyone to read, the goal of shared understanding is so very achievable. Sometimes, too, it’s very reassuring to have a local specialist sharing their expertise; Chelsea is an Australian psychologist who resides in Northern NSW. Eliza Fricker, providing her own personal touch with her illustrations, is also intrinsically tied to the topic of Square me, Round World, as it reflects her own experiences growing up undiagnosed autistic. Both Chelsea and Eliza are strong advocates for supporting neurodiversity in the community, which is overwhelmingly evident in the creation of this book.
Square Me, Round World is the book that all neurodivergent households, therapists, and libraries should have in their collection. Read it, share it, talk about it. Can also be purchased from the Connect Us Psychology website.
Reviewed by Lauren Harcombe
