Conclusion

 Conclusion

As I am writing this conclusion, there is so much hurtful and incorrect rhetoric regarding autism, claiming that "These are kids who will never pay taxes. They'll never hold a job. They'll never play baseball. They'll never write a poem. They'll never go out on a date" (NPR, 2025). Spewing this vitriol feeds into the idea that people with autism are a burden and perpetuates false information about autism being a "disease" and an "epidemic." Now, more than ever, we need books from autistic writers depicting authentic, respectful, and honest portrayals of characters with autism. Creating multi-faceted characters with autism whose perspectives are affirmed and not diminished helps readers not familiar with ASD learn empathy and compassion while people on the spectrum can feel seen and represented. 

2020's onward, there are definitely improvements in representing the full autism spectrum, from minimal support (Level 1) to very substantial support (Level 3). More authors, illustrators, and books with authentic representation are being written and produced, but statistics show that as of 2023, only 7% of materials have topics and characters with disabilities. With so many amazing and talented writers and illustrators with autism, we as library professionals should purposefully seek out these resources and elevate their work, making the topic mainstream and accessible for everyone. Creating a safe and nurturing space for writers and illustrators from all across the spectrum and emphasizing their work is an important endeavor. Authors who are creating stories with autistic characters should keep these useful guidelines in mind so as to get autism representation right: "listen to autistic people," "create a healthy character arc," "don't just make them a walking diagnosis," and "don't forget those with complex needs" (Autistic Not Weird, 2024).