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innodavid's review
3.0
3.5 STARS
The fact that I could relate to this so much made me rethink if I have undiagnosed autism.
The fact that I could relate to this so much made me rethink if I have undiagnosed autism.
nicolemhewitt's review against another edition
5.0
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
The wonderful thing about this book is that it’s told from the POV of a boy on the autism spectrum, but that’s not at all what the story’s about. Bat’s voice feels authentic—his black and white thinking, his sensory sensitivities, his inability to make steady eye contact—and because we’re seeing the world through his eyes, we can understand the way his mind works. His mom’s obvious love and concern for him are evident, and the sibling rivalry with his older sister seems realistic. In the end, it’s hard not to fall in love with this little boy who wants nothing more than to keep a baby skunk as a pet. The book is simple—probably ideal for younger MG readers—but enjoyable. We get a little bit of animal science since Bat learns about skunks and his mom is a vet. Basically, this book will make you feel all marshmallowy inside and give you the urge to give little kids lots of hugs. I definitely plan to read the rest of these.
I listened to the audiobook, and thought that Patrick Lawlor did a wonderful job with the narration. He captured Bat’s innocent spirit perfectly.
The wonderful thing about this book is that it’s told from the POV of a boy on the autism spectrum, but that’s not at all what the story’s about. Bat’s voice feels authentic—his black and white thinking, his sensory sensitivities, his inability to make steady eye contact—and because we’re seeing the world through his eyes, we can understand the way his mind works. His mom’s obvious love and concern for him are evident, and the sibling rivalry with his older sister seems realistic. In the end, it’s hard not to fall in love with this little boy who wants nothing more than to keep a baby skunk as a pet. The book is simple—probably ideal for younger MG readers—but enjoyable. We get a little bit of animal science since Bat learns about skunks and his mom is a vet. Basically, this book will make you feel all marshmallowy inside and give you the urge to give little kids lots of hugs. I definitely plan to read the rest of these.
I listened to the audiobook, and thought that Patrick Lawlor did a wonderful job with the narration. He captured Bat’s innocent spirit perfectly.
paigehansen22's review
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
marypmcg's review
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
juniperpinejournals's review
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
4.0
A sweet chapter book. Would be good for middle grade. Made an excellent read aloud
jennymock's review
5.0
Warning - this book is far too quick a read. I loved living through Bat. Being the son of a veterinarian, he has developed a desire to know everything there is to know about animals. He gets to experience the ins and outs of veterinarian clinics. He loves his family, but finds them annoying at times. His bond with baby skunk Thor is believable and heartwarming. Being a child with autism, his thought process is typical yet unique. Like all kids, he wishes for a friend who he can truly call a friend. Someone he can trust. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
stephaniealysse's review against another edition
5.0
This sweet novel is perfect for children of all ages. A Boy Called Bat is a delightful little book full of joy, care, and one lovable protagonist.
Oh, how I wish I could be Bat’s teacher! I know I would just adore him! He is so sweet and so easy to love. Props to the author for writing a character on the spectrum who is loved and accepted just as he is. I so appreciated that the adults in Bat’s life didn’t try to change him. Also, thankfully, there isn’t any reference to bullying. (I’m so over the assumption that children will go out of their way to bully those who are different! In my experience, the exact opposite is often true. Kids are very capable of being kind and accepting.) Bat may be misunderstood at times, but the people in his life genuinely care for him and want to know him better. I’m so glad there are two more books in this series because I’m not ready to say goodbye to this character quite yet.
This novel would work nicely as a read aloud for the k-2 crowd, and older children should enjoy reading it independently. My classroom library now has a spot reserved for A Boy Called Bat. I can’t wait to share this little treasure with my students.
Oh, how I wish I could be Bat’s teacher! I know I would just adore him! He is so sweet and so easy to love. Props to the author for writing a character on the spectrum who is loved and accepted just as he is. I so appreciated that the adults in Bat’s life didn’t try to change him. Also, thankfully, there isn’t any reference to bullying. (I’m so over the assumption that children will go out of their way to bully those who are different! In my experience, the exact opposite is often true. Kids are very capable of being kind and accepting.) Bat may be misunderstood at times, but the people in his life genuinely care for him and want to know him better. I’m so glad there are two more books in this series because I’m not ready to say goodbye to this character quite yet.
This novel would work nicely as a read aloud for the k-2 crowd, and older children should enjoy reading it independently. My classroom library now has a spot reserved for A Boy Called Bat. I can’t wait to share this little treasure with my students.