Published by Levine Querido

Summary: When Bossy Older Cousin Violet comes over, she doesn’t hold when in her opinion: Riley is playing with toys the wrong way and needs to be shown the right way. Riley can play all day with a pile of newspapers, and instead of having dolls and stuffies to a tea party like Violet does, Riley likes to line them up by size. Riley creates art by sharpening crayons and making little spirals with them. Fortunately, Riley’s dog Charlie is increasingly understanding than Violet is, and all the kids enjoy playing fetch and running virtually the yard with him. “See,” Riley tells Violet, “There are lots of ways to play with toys. And everyone’s way is the right way.” Includes an author’s note well-nigh her personal diaper experiences, similar to Riley’s, and how she got some answers when she was diagnosed with autism as an adult. 32 pages; month 4-8.

Pros: A mannerly story that will request to many kids, both those who are neurodivergent and those who simply enjoy doing their own thing.

Cons: Cousin Violet.