- San Diego Book Award Winner: Best Children’s Picture Book of 2019
- Starred Review, Shelf Awareness
- A “Teacher’s Pick” on Amazon
- Downloadable Teachers’ Guide
- Bank Street Best Children’s Book of 2019
- CCBC Choices Book, 2019
“Who wins in a competition for attention with a sibling with autism? It’s not a “who,” it’s a “what”: brotherly love.” — Kirkus Reviews
“With a light touch, Pla offers a thoughtful reminder that all siblings need extra love and attention sometimes.” — Publishers Weekly
Nothing seems to be going right for Sammy today. After he walks home in the pouring rain, he finds his autistic little brother Benji is having a bad day too. On days like this, Benji has a special play-box where he goes to feel cozy and safe. Sammy doesn’t have a special place, and he’s convinced no one cares how he feels or even notices him.
But somebody is noticing, and may just have an idea on how to help Sammy feel better.
In this tender story about siblings, author Sally J. Pla shares her experience of raising sons with different personality traits and needs. Benji, the Bad Day, and Me embraces the philosophy that we are all part of a wide spectrum of neurodiversity. And on those really bad, rotten days, you can count on family to be there for you.
“I’m a Sally Pla fan. Someday Birds is one of my faves. I love how she chooses kids with autism for her characters and shows how families work and everyday life goes on. This one is fantastic. “Whether the day is good or bad, Benji and I will be okay. That’s because the two of us are brothers.” – Jaime, Goodreads reader
“Probably the best picture book I’ve read that has an autistic character. Benji just happens to have autism, and it’s never presented as a problem (and he’s not bullied for it!), it’s just how Benji is. Sadly, I’ve not seen many books like this. – Val, Goodreads reader
“So relatable as well as being a glimpse into a real loving family (this brotherhood was so sweet). I thought this was done really well, and has the potential to be used in so so many ways (home, classroom, neurodiversity convos, social emotional convos etc).” – Mrs. Arca, Goodreads reader
“This book is brilliant at capturing a very complex dynamic! Not only does it provide a mirror into my own family with my square peg and their siblings, but it is one of very few children’s books that represents this.
We’ve had this book for awhile and it still gives me all the feels every time I read it.
Benji, the Bad Day, and Me is important, inclusive, empathetic, and genuine. It’s hard for kids to understand when one of their siblings may need more support, especially when they also need support! And I am trying to balance this exact thing in our family . . . It’s not easy. But. We try our best everyday. And that’s exactly what this book shows-a family trying their best.”
— Jenn Kim, Children’s Bookstagrammer