Each April, communities across the country recognize Autism Awareness Month, a time to celebrate neurodiversity, promote inclusion and foster understanding for individuals on the autism spectrum. It’s an opportunity to remind children and adults alike that differences are not deficits; they
are part of what makes our world vibrant and unique. Books like This is Me, written especially for young readers, help open that conversation in a gentle and meaningful way. In the book, author Marianna Costa uses relatable storytelling and simple language to encourage children to see that everyone experiences the world differently.
This is Me is a joyful and empowering book for young readers that celebrates neurodivergent children and the many wonderful ways their minds work. Through warm storytelling and colorful moments from everyday life, the book shows that thinking differently is something to be proud of. Each page encourages children to embrace who they are, whether they notice details others miss, feel emotions deeply or see the world in unique ways. “The book reminds readers that there is no single “right” way to think, learn or play,” said Marianna. “Instead, our differences make the world brighter, more creative and more interesting.” With a message of self-acceptance and kindness, the story invites every child to say proudly, “This is me.”
Marianna has worked with special needs children since 2008. She spent many years in several schools in the Marple Newtown School District as well as the Haverford School District, working as a one-on-one aide with students of all ages. “I started babysitting at a young age and have always loved children,” she said.
“Whether they are typical children or have special needs, I’m always grateful to be a part of their lives.” A longtime resident of Broomall, Marianna raised her three children in the community she proudly calls home. Now a teaching assistant at The Timothy School, a school devoted exclusively to children with autism, Marianna said she has been able to build meaningful connections with the children she helps every day.
Inspired by her students’ individuality, This is Me celebrates self acceptance and the beauty of being different. “It was always on my bucket list to write a children’s book,” she said. “And I saw how important it was to teach kids from a young age how to embrace peers who were different from them.”
In a tribute to the students who motivated her, Marianna invited them to contribute the book’s illustrations, making the project a collaborative reflection of the voices and talents that inspired the story in the first place. “I work with students who are imaginative and creative,” she explained. “It was rewarding to see that brought to life in the book.”
This is Me, available on Amazon.com, reflects a simple but powerful message: no matter how different we are, that’s ok because that is what makes you you. “In this world, we are all different. Something we can all do together is be kind,” Marianna said. “We can also be a friend.”