A Boy Called Bat

Reach for this book when your child feels misunderstood by their peers or struggles with sensory sensitivities and the unpredictable nature of social rules. Bixby Alexander Tam (Bat) is a third-grader who sees the world through a precise, animal-loving lens. When his veterinarian mom brings home an orphaned baby skunk, Bat finds a purpose that transcends his usual anxieties. This story beautifully captures the experience of neurodivergence without ever using a clinical label, focusing instead on Bat's deep empathy and his journey to prove he is the right person to care for a wild creature. It is an ideal choice for families navigating the nuances of being different, the rhythm of joint custody after divorce, and the quiet triumphs of personal growth. At its heart, it is a gentle, realistic look at identity and the profound bond between a boy and an animal.