School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--On the first night of school, Bitsy Bat worries that she is not ready, but Mama and Papa reassure her that their star student is ready to shine. The classroom is too bright, too noisy, and Bitsy is the only bat in a crowd of critters. Laughs ensue when she hangs upside down on her chair, they chide her as she uses her feet to paint, and the snack that crawls from her batpack sends them shrieking. Bitsy's head spins and her fear that she will never fit in bubbles over into a five-star meltdown. How can Bitsy shine in a world that feels so upside down or, rather, right side up? Windness's cartoon Photoshop illustrations are detailed and remarkably resemble paint and pastel artwork. Back matter offers a note to readers from Windness sharing that she is autistic and like Bitsy, sometimes her world feels upside down. Windness does not overtly label Bitsy as autistic, but uses her endearing winged protagonist to demonstrate how topsy-turvy the world can feel for a person with autism. At the end of the story, Bitsy shares an activity with her class that will lend itself well for replicating and continuing conversations about the unique ways everyone shines. A glossary of terms is provided to help readers extend their understanding of autism. VERDICT A thought-provoking story of inclusion to share beyond the first day of school; every library will want to purchase this book.--Emily Brush
Publisher's Weekly Review
On nocturnal Bitsy Bat's first night at her new school, Crittercrawl Elementary, nothing goes as planned. From the moment the teacher invites her to "take your seat," the neurodivergent-cued protagonist doesn't feel like she fits in. Chair-sitting, finger-painting, snack time, and recess pose various challenges, until the protagonist experiences sensory overload that leads to "a five-star meltdown." Back at home, Bitsy gains perspective from her parents. "I can't sit, paint, eat, or play like everyone else," she laments until Mama reassures her that "everyone shines a little differently." Windness's illustrations lean into dusty hues with scenes that center Bitsy's emotions. After Bitsy finds ways to navigate the classroom experience ("SUNGLASSES!... HEADPHONES!"), she also comes up with a successful plan to assist her classmates in appreciating one another's unique qualities, making for a winningly inclusive conclusion. Back matter defines autism-related vocabulary, and an author's note describes how personal experiences shaped the narrative. Ages 4--8. (June)
Kirkus Review
A young bat who does things a little differently from her classmates figures out a way to thrive. At school, Bitsy Bat hangs from a chair by her toes instead of sitting, uses her feet rather than her fingers to paint, and brings an ant for her snack. Between the "too-bright light," the "too-loud words," and a chorus of "Wrong!" from Winnie the rabbit, Bitsy melts down. But with some support from her parents and teacher, Bitsy has a great idea--some accommodations help her feel comfortable enough to learn, and a classroom activity helps her and her classmates see how she, and each of them, is special. The story is highly relatable to any young reader just getting used to school but is specifically targeted at autistic children. Though the word itself doesn't appear in the main story, backmatter offers more information about autism, framed in a positive, supportive way. The adorable, lively illustrations bring the point home well. Bitsy is depicted right-side-up at home with her family, though the world around them is upside-down. At school, she is upside-down but much happier than when she was trying to be right-side-up like the other kids. With a lot to see on every page, children won't get bored with repeat reads, and they'll even learn a lesson along the way. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A darling book for all children but especially those with autism. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
