Vibhuti Cat

It’s Autism Awareness & Acceptance month and all through this month, our focus would be on picture books that deal with Autism. A month isn’t enough to talk about the complex, yet magical, surprising mind and life of an autistic individual. Lil A goes to school with one - her friend who’s on the autism spectrum. She understands he is different, yet he is one amongst them - someone who deserves equal opportunity, respect, love and attention, that every child does. .

Vibhuti Cat, written by Shikhandin and illustrated by Shubham Lakhera, is a lovely story about Magesh - who is most likely autistic and is fascinated by drawing cats. He has his days of trouble with things that are routine to everyone else. Drawing the Vibhuti cat calms him down and is his constant companion and assumes varied forms. Soon he desires to go to school. This book is about how he finds his spot in life, with the help of his gentle, understanding and supportive family. This book illustrates the inner life of a child who has difficulty with speaking/ verbalising. The Vibhuti Cat becomes his form of expression and helps him to gain confidence.The illustrations are beautiful and kept real. .

Autism is grossly misinterpreted and not talked about. Inclusion in the society comes with information and good intentions. Books like Vibhuti Cat (which is the only Indian book on Autism) is an empowering insight into the life of a child who is on the autism spectrum. .

This book is meant for young readers, preferably 5+ onwards. This book is published by Duckbill and can be purchased on Amazon. . . #worldautismawarenessday#worldautismawarenessweek .

Do follow the team of #abc_minions - a group of bibliophiles raising readers. Follow the hashtag to see our weekly book recommendations and we look forward to seeing yours as well. .