Here are 100 books that Same Way Ben fans have personally recommended if you like Same Way Ben. Book DNA is a community of 13,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of A Friend for Henry

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Author Of Daisy the Daydreamer

From my list on relatable neurodiverse characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

A couple of years ago, in my late 50s, I learned I had ADHD. It was a huge discovery to finally understand why I daydreamed while being lectured and had so many thoughts racing through my mind. When I was younger, I assumed that there was a level playing field between my classmates and me when it came to basic brain function. So, I always felt extra frustrated and sad when I didn’t learn the same way as others. Only recently have I come to the new understanding about what was going on then—that my brain has always worked a little differently.


Jennifer's book list on relatable neurodiverse characters

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Why Jennifer loves this book

Such a sweet book about a boy just trying to find a friend who sees the world as he does. 

I think this is another book we can all relate to, but especially a sensitive child like Henry who doesn’t like overstimulation and kids who’s rules are different than his. Eventually Henry finds a little girl who doesn’t like broccoli and understands he doesn’t like triangles, and together they build a tower with no triangles or broccoli, which feels perfect to both of them.

By Jenn Bailey , Mika Song (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked A Friend for Henry as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

2020 Schneider Family Honor Book

In Classroom Six, second left down the hall, Henry has been on the lookout for a friend. A friend who shares. A friend who listens. Maybe even a friend who likes things to stay the same and all in order, as Henry does. But on a day full of too close and too loud, when nothing seems to go right, will Henry ever find a friend-or will a friend find him? With insight and warmth, this heartfelt story from the perspective of a boy on the autism spectrum celebrates the everyday magic of friendship.


If you love Same Way Ben...

Book cover of Floretta

Floretta by Joan Budilovsky,

Floretta- the story of an old woman who discovers life beautifully anew thru the helping hands of a child. The chakra colors of dawn and twilight are woven through the pages as the cycle of life is magically composed. The subject of “heaven,” has the potential to open discussions with…

Book cover of It's So Difficult

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Author Of Daisy the Daydreamer

From my list on relatable neurodiverse characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

A couple of years ago, in my late 50s, I learned I had ADHD. It was a huge discovery to finally understand why I daydreamed while being lectured and had so many thoughts racing through my mind. When I was younger, I assumed that there was a level playing field between my classmates and me when it came to basic brain function. So, I always felt extra frustrated and sad when I didn’t learn the same way as others. Only recently have I come to the new understanding about what was going on then—that my brain has always worked a little differently.


Jennifer's book list on relatable neurodiverse characters

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Why Jennifer loves this book

I love this book so much! With his beautiful child-like drawings, Guridi masterfully helps the reader see life from the perspective of a neurodiverse child struggling with day-to-day life. Guridi does this by juxtaposing limited palette drawings with off-white backgrounds with full-page black background pages showing the text of the child’s inner dialogue. 

This book would be amazing for both a neurodiverse child managing his or her own life and a parent trying to envision this child’s inner struggles.

By Raul Nieto Guridi , Lawrence Schimel (translator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked It's So Difficult as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

A school day can be so overwhelming: so many people, so many noises, so many things to remember. Grown-ups say it’ll get easier with time, but even saying hello is incredibly hard. Thank goodness for comforts like math, for anything that can relax a restless mind. Maybe this time a few words will come out at last…

An empathetic look at anxiety and overstimulation, It’s So Difficult follows a child throughout the challenging routines of a single day. Even the smallest step forward can be an enormous triumph. 


Book cover of If You Give a Moose a Muffin

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Author Of Daisy the Daydreamer

From my list on relatable neurodiverse characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

A couple of years ago, in my late 50s, I learned I had ADHD. It was a huge discovery to finally understand why I daydreamed while being lectured and had so many thoughts racing through my mind. When I was younger, I assumed that there was a level playing field between my classmates and me when it came to basic brain function. So, I always felt extra frustrated and sad when I didn’t learn the same way as others. Only recently have I come to the new understanding about what was going on then—that my brain has always worked a little differently.


Jennifer's book list on relatable neurodiverse characters

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Why Jennifer loves this book

We all know Numeroff’s “IF” books. I love them all, but I picked the Moose book because the moose scares himself by shouting, “BOO!” But all of them have a similar message.

Whether neurodiverse or neurotypical, we are all familiar with the feeling of starting one task, which leads to another, which leads to another…etc. I remember reading this book to my kids when they were young and how it captured how I felt as an overwhelmed mom (not to mention one with undiagnosed ADHD).

Interestingly, it was written over 30 years ago during a time when ADHD wasn’t as easily diagnosed. In a way, this speaks to the ever-presence of neurodiversity, whether specifically recognized or not. 

By Laura Joffe Numeroff , Felicia Bond (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked If You Give a Moose a Muffin as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

If a big hungry moose comes to visit, you might give him a muffin to make him feel at home. If you give him a muffin, he'll want some jam to go with it. When he's eaten all your muffins, he'll want to go to the store to get some more muffin mix...

In this hilarious sequel to the beloved If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, the young host is again run ragged by a surprise guest. Young readers will delight in the comic complications that follow when a little boy entertains a gregarious moose.

The If You Give...…


If you love Maryann Cocca-Leffler...

Book cover of The City Sings Green & Other Poems About Welcoming Wildlife

The City Sings Green & Other Poems About Welcoming Wildlife by Erica Silverman,

A unique and artful blend of poetry, science, and activism, this picture book shows how city dwellers can intervene so that nature can work her magic.

In Oslo, Norway: citizens create a honeybee highway that stretches from one side of the city to the other, offering flowerpots, resting spots, bee…

Book cover of Niko Draws a Feeling

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Author Of Daisy the Daydreamer

From my list on relatable neurodiverse characters.

Why am I passionate about this?

A couple of years ago, in my late 50s, I learned I had ADHD. It was a huge discovery to finally understand why I daydreamed while being lectured and had so many thoughts racing through my mind. When I was younger, I assumed that there was a level playing field between my classmates and me when it came to basic brain function. So, I always felt extra frustrated and sad when I didn’t learn the same way as others. Only recently have I come to the new understanding about what was going on then—that my brain has always worked a little differently.


Jennifer's book list on relatable neurodiverse characters

Jennifer P. Goldfinger Why Jennifer loves this book

This book gave me goosebumps. Which then inspired me to draw that feeling.

Niko reminded me of myself observing the world and trying to capture it on paper, but Niko takes it a step further as he draws the “ring-a-ling” of the ice cream truck and the warmth of the sun on his face. 

This is another book that all children will relate to, but a special select few will feel inspired, as I did.

By Robert Raczka , Simone Shin (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Niko Draws a Feeling as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Niko loves to draw his world: the ring-a-ling of the ice cream truck, the warmth of sun on his face.

But no one appreciates his art. Until one day, Niko meets Iris . . .

This imaginative and tender story explores the creative process, abstract art, friendship, and the universal desire to feel understood.

A Junior Library Guild selection, Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book, Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Books, Cooperative Children's Book Center Choice, Midwest Connections Pick, NCTE Notable Children's Book in the Language Arts,…


Book cover of Now I'm a Bird

Benson Shum Author Of First Night of Howlergarten

From my list on inclusion and being true to yourself.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up, I was always the outcast. I wasn't the smartest in class. I wasn't the strongest in sports. I was always the shy kid in the back, trying not to make a noise. But when I made a connection with someone or they made the effort to say hi. I treasured our friendship. I love writing and sharing stories where we are talking about inclusion and building empathy toward each other. I hope you will enjoy these books on the list.

Benson's book list on inclusion and being true to yourself

Benson Shum Why Benson loves this book

A heartfelt story about a little girl who had feathers. And how her feathers eventually filled in and her arms became wings.

She was made fun of by some classmates, but as she started to stand up for herself, she found a flock of friends who were just as different. If you ever feel like you are an outcast, this is a book for you. I love this story about how it's ok to be different. You never know who else feels the same way. 

By Sue Ganz-Schmitt , Renia Metallinou (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Now I'm a Bird as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Mom's Choice Award 2021 - Gold Level
Story Monsters Approved Book of the Year Award 2022
Firebird Book Awards - Juvenile Fiction First Place 2021
Firebird Book Awards - Picture Book for All Ages 2021

It isn't easy to be the only kid in school who's a bird. Then again, you can fly!

Julianna didn't mean to be a bird. It just happened, feather by feather. "It's a rare and beautiful condition," explains the note her mom sends to school, though it doesn’t help with the teasing. But Julianna’s wings take her to places she hadn’t imagined, with a birds-eye…


Book cover of Waylon! One Awesome Thing

Laurie Calkhoven Author Of Roosevelt Banks and the Attic of Doom

From my list on laugh-out-loud chapters.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a former book publishing professional turned full-time children’s book author. I’ve never swallowed a frog, battled imaginary bears, or had a slime war with ghosts like my character, Roosevelt Banks, but I have written more than fifty books for children. These range from beginning readers (You Should Meet Misty Copeland) and chapter books (Roosevelt Banks, Good-Kid-in-Training) to middle grade historical novels (Daniel at the Siege of Boston, 1775).

Laurie's book list on laugh-out-loud chapters

Laurie Calkhoven Why Laurie loves this book

Waylon has lots of ideas for making life more awesome through science, like attracting cupcakes by controlling gravity. But it's impossible for him to concentrate on his inventions when Arlo Brody is dividing the fourth grade boys into two groups. His attempts to navigate fourth grade and be friends with everyone (except for one very scary new kid) are hilarious.

By Sara Pennypacker , Marla Frazee (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Waylon! One Awesome Thing as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 6, 7, 8, and 9.

What is this book about?

From the creators of the New York Times bestselling series Clementine comes another chapter book collection that will keep readers engaged and laughing until the very last page.

Waylon has lots of ideas for making life more awesome through science, like teleportation, human gills, and attracting cupcakes by controlling gravity. But it's impossible for him to concentrate on his inventions when he's experiencing his own personal Big Bang.

Arlo Brody is dividing the fourth grade boys into two groups. Waylon would rather be friends with everyone. Well, everyone except the scary new kid, Baxter Boylen.

Waylon's older sister, Neon, is…


If you love Same Way Ben...

Book cover of Boomer Sees the Town

Boomer Sees the Town by Diann Floyd Boehm,

Discover the first adventure in the Curious Bunny series!

In Boomer Sees the Town, Boomer leaves the forest to explore the wonders, sounds, and surprises of the big city. Perfect for curious minds and early readers, this heartwarming children’s story encourages imagination, discovery, and kindness.

Written by award-winning author…

Book cover of Shift Your Mind: 9 Mental Shifts to Thrive in Preparation and Performance

Alan Stein Jr. Author Of Sustain Your Game: High Performance Keys to Manage Stress, Avoid Stagnation, and Beat Burnout

From my list on managing stress and beating burnout.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a professional keynote speaker and author that has long been fascinated with tenants of high performance. When I began, I was curious about how high performance could lead to increased achievement and accomplishment. Now, I am fascinated by how high performance can lead to heightened happiness and fulfillment. Thus, I love reading, watching, and listening to any resource that can help improve the quality of my life… so that I can pay that forward and improve the quality of life for those I serve. I believe a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. 

Alan's book list on managing stress and beating burnout

Alan Stein Jr. Why Alan loves this book

Your mindset may be the most important factor in not only your performance, but in your happiness and fulfillment as well. It creates the foundation for your attitude and your philosophy on life. Shift Your Mind is a brilliantly written, practical guide full of useful constructs to help you heighten your current perspective and greatly enhance the quality of your life, your relationships, and your performance.

By Brian Levenson ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Shift Your Mind as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Greatness is a matter of timing.

Executive and mental performance coach Brian Levenson has spent years working with high performers in sports, business, and culture. And from the field to the boardroom, he noticed something surprising. Talented people were failing to reach their goals, not because they lacked the necessary skills, but because they didn't understand the mental processes that fueled them.

When it comes to high performance, talent isn't enough.

He began interviewing former CIA agents, world-class chefs, astronauts, athletes, CEOs, and more to find a solution, and soon realized that elite performers have one thing in common. They…


Book cover of Change Your Questions, Change Your Life: 12 Powerful Tools for Leadership, Coaching, and Results

Jude Sclater Author Of Think Like a Coach: Empower your team through everyday conversations

From my list on managers who want to empower their teams.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a practical, straight-talking New Zealander who has lived in the UK since 2007. I’ve coached managers for over a decade, and one thing they all have in common is that they want to develop and empower their teams. What I love the most about my work is seeing the ‘aha’ moments unfold when they work out a path that is right for them. I’ve chosen these books for the ‘aha’ moments they sparked in me, and I hope they do the same for you.

Jude's book list on managers who want to empower their teams

Jude Sclater Why Jude loves this book

I love the big message in this book, which is to focus more on finding the right question instead of the right answer.

I read the intro before going into a coaching session and used the idea of question-thinking with the person I was coaching. We looked at the questions she was asking herself as she went into a meeting with her maternity cover and together we turned those into positive and curious ones. She later came back and told me it worked, and the meeting went much better than she thought it would. Personally, I’ve gotten a lot of benefits from noticing when I’m asking myself judger questions and turning those into learner ones instead. Read the book to find out what I mean.

By Marilee Adams ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Change Your Questions, Change Your Life as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Discover how the questions we ask ourselves and others can either expand our mindsets and open us up to exciting new possibilities or constrict our mindsets and limit our choices for successful change.

Change Your Questions, Change Your Life is an international bestseller that has sold over 400,000 copies in twenty-two languages. People have discovered that, when we’re looking for answers, we often forget to take the time to ask the right questions. But, as Dr. Marilee Adams shows, intentionally using questions helps us make wiser choices, find solutions, and transform our personal and professional lives.

Dr. Adams uses a…


Book cover of The Power to Change

Allie Marie Smith Author Of Social Media Reset

From my list on overcome social media obsession and get your life back.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm an award-winning author, podcast host, life coach, and the Founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a faith-based non-profit organization that empowers girls and women to know their value and purpose, experience vibrant mental health, and lead flourishing lives. I’m passionate about the mental health of girls and women and am a leading voice on the impact of social media—and what we can do about it. I live in Santa Barbara County with my husband, Paul, and I love being unplugged, writing, playing with horses, surfing, and adventuring up and down the California coast.

Allie's book list on overcome social media obsession and get your life back

Allie Marie Smith Why Allie loves this book

I’ve always been committed to personal growth, and as a high-achiever, I’m constantly setting new goals. This book is a faith-based guide to transforming your life by aligning your habits with your God-given identity. He offers a paradigm shift that argues that lasting change doesn’t come from willpower alone but from changing how you see yourself through the lens of who God says you are.

This has informed the way I see my goals and has taught me that if I want to change my behavior or accomplish a goal, I need to renew my mind systems, and relying on God’s strength, I can break negative patterns and form new, life-giving habits. I recommend this book to all the women I work with as a life coach, and it’s been the most practical and powerful book that has contributed to my recent professional and personal success. 

By Craig Groeschel ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Power to Change as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Life-Changing Spiritual and Practical Strategies for True Transformation.

Nothing is more frustrating than knowing you need to change and trying to change, but failing to change. You feel stuck, no matter how hard you try. Craig Groeschel, author of Winning the War in Your Mind, knows what it's like to be caught in that cycle. That was his own story-until he discovered these practical and biblical principles for experiencing lasting change.

In The Power to Change, Craig will help you find true change in your relationships, habits, and thoughts by unpacking:

How God's power, not your willpower, leads to true…


If you love Maryann Cocca-Leffler...

Book cover of Hazel and Mabel

Hazel and Mabel by Melissa Stoller,

A satisfying story of rediscovering friendship after time spent apart.

For many years, Hazel and Mabel were inseparable. The two friends made up stories, spent the night together, and shared their snacks. Then, Mabel moved away. As time passes, Hazel and Mabel think of each other often, but they also…

Book cover of Change Your World: How Anyone, Anywhere Can Make a Difference

Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino Author Of The Change Guidebook: How to Align Your Heart, Truths, and Energy to Find Success in All Areas of Your Life

From my list on to implement and manage change.

Why am I passionate about this?

Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino is the founder of The Best Ever You Network and co-founder of Compliance4. Through these companies, she has helped individuals and organizations around the world be their best and achieve world-class excellence with gratitude-based behavior and belief systems. She is one of America's foremost personal and corporate development consultants specializing in mindset, change management, strategy, leadership, and taking action. Elizabeth is also the author of the award-winning personal development book PERCOLATE - Let Your Best Self Filter Through (Hay House) and multiple children’s books as a contributor and author. Elizabeth lives her daily life with life-threatening food allergies. Elizabeth and her husband live in Maine with their four sons and three rescued cats. 

Elizabeth's book list on to implement and manage change

Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino Why Elizabeth loves this book

This is a very relatable book from everyday people who have created change for good. I firmly believe that the practice of change starts with us individually and this book supports that concept. I believe that to be our best and live our best lives, we must solidly and whole-heartedly look within.

By John C. Maxwell , Rob Hoskins ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Change Your World as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

John Maxwell and Rob Hoskins have invested their lives as champions of change. Maxwell's organizations EQUIP and the John Maxwell Leadership Foundation have transformed communities by training more than five million leaders from literally every country in the world. Hoskins's One Hope has transformed the lives of more than one billion children and youth in 120 countries around the globe.

Now, for the first time, these two leaders have partnered to write a book about how anyone, anywhere, can transform their world. Offering practical principles based on solid research and real-life experience, the authors teach how to recognize where and…


Book cover of A Friend for Henry
Book cover of It's So Difficult
Book cover of If You Give a Moose a Muffin

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5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in change, school, and neurodiversity?

Change 45 books
School 288 books
Neurodiversity 105 books