New Children’s Book Celebrates Friendship, Belonging, and the Beauty of Being Different

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – On the first day of school, Theo, a thoughtful Australian boy who sees the world through an autistic lens, packs his bag with familiar comforts: dinosaur toys, collector cards, creamy custard, and strawberry milk. With his imaginary friend Mike by his side, Theo braces for a day full of unfamiliar sounds and faces.

Nearby stands Fedir, a red-haired Ukrainian boy who has recently arrived in Australia. Anxious and alone, Fedir is adjusting to life far from the home he once knew. When Theo notices Fedir standing by himself, everything begins to change. Their quiet connection—through dinosaur facts, shared snacks, and gentle understanding—builds an unlikely friendship that blossoms in the most unexpected way.

Together, they show that every child deserves to feel safe, accepted, and seen.

Everything and Everybody Belong Somewhere is more than a story—it’s a message of hope for children navigating the complexities of starting school, especially those with autism or from refugee backgrounds.

Written and illustrated by Tony Braithwaite, this beautifully sensitive picture book is inspired by Tony’s real-life journey with his autistic grandson, who also experiences sensory processing disorder and restrictive eating. It’s a heartfelt reflection of the challenges—and joys—of finding connection in unfamiliar spaces.

Themes Explored in the Book:

• Autism and developmental differences
• Friendship and social connection
• Refugee experiences and resettlement
• Identity, multiculturalism, and belonging
• Emotional resilience and empathy
• Self-esteem and acceptance

Tony also includes a practical and compassionate guide for parents, carers, and educators with tips on supporting autistic children in early learning environments.

A Book for All Children
Through simple, child-friendly hand-drawn illustrations and a framed picture story style, this book gently opens up conversations about neurodiversity, kindness, and the power of friendship across cultures.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or simply someone who believes in the importance of inclusive storytelling, this book will help you to understand autism. Published by Ark House Kids, Everything and Everybody Belong Somewhere, now available globally, is a book that will stay with you—and the children you read it with—for years to come.

About the Author / Illustrator
Tony Braithwaite is a passionate advocate for children with developmental challenges. His work with Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Disability Employment Services (DES) has helped families access vital support, therapies, and pathways to inclusion. A survivor of a life-threatening congenital condition, Tony lives with deep gratitude and a commitment to making every day count. His books—now in their fifth publication—are written from the heart and inspired by lived experience. Tony holds a Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science and is a member of:

The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA – NSW)
Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI – NSW)
Omega Writers Group Australia
IBBY Australia

Contact the author
Email: tbtonybraithwaite@gmail.com
Website: tony-braithwaite.com