Henry and the Something New

Published by: Chronicle Books LLC, 2024

Pages:  56

Ages:  6- 9

Lexile: 460L

ISBN: 978-1797213903

Website:  jennbailey.com; mikasongdraws.com

This is an early chapter book about an autistic boy named Henry. His class is getting ready to go on a field trip to a museum.  Henry was excited, but also worried.  The easy text lets us know how he is feeling and questions he asks his teacher.  She is patient and helps to dispel most of his worries. (What if my permission slip falls off the desk?) Henry is a bit unsure of going since this is new, but he is also excited about going because he loves dinosaurs and the museum has dinosaurs.  Eventually, after a few false directions and stops at other places in the museum, Henry and his group get to the dinosaur section of the museum and Henry has a good time.  

The story does not tell us specifically that Henry is autistic. This is book 2 of 4 books about Henry. Here is a list of the Henry books:

1. Henry Like Always (2023)
2. Henry and the Something New (2024)
3. Henry’s Picture-Perfect Day (2025)
4. A Friend For Henry (2019)

Jenn Bailey lives in Kansas with her husband and numerous cats and dogs. Her children are grown. 

Mika Song lives in New York City with her husband and daughter.   

Reviewed by Audrey Campbell, MED

Reading Specialist and Library Media Center Director

Valley Adventist Schools, Rogers Campus

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