• Age: 13 to 17
• Grade: 7 to 12
• Reading age: 12 to 18

Like many others on the autism spectrum, 20-something stand-up comic Michael McCreary has been told by more than a few well-meaning folks that he doesn’t “look” autistic. But, as he’s quick to point out in this memoir, autism “looks” different for just about everyone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Diagnosed with ASD at age five, McCreary got hit with the performance bug not much later. During a difficult time in junior high, he started journaling, eventually turning his pain e into something empowering—and funny. He scored his first stand-up gig at age 14, and hasn't looked back.

This unique and hilarious #OwnVoices memoir breaks down what it’s like to live with autism for readers on and off the spectrum. Candid scenes from McCreary's life are broken up with funny visuals and factual asides. Funny, You Don’t Look Autistic is an invaluable and compelling read for young readers with ASD looking for voices to relate to, as well as for readers hoping to broaden their understanding of ASD.

 

MICHAEL MCCREARY is a stand-up comedian who has performed across North America. He uses stand-up to dispel misconceptions about Autism Spectrum Disorder. He lives in Toronto.

 

 

Michael McCreary's profile page

• Joint winner, IBBY 2021 Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities
• Joint winner, Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List
• Joint winner, Best Bets List, Top Ten, Ontario Library Association
• Short-listed, Willow Award, Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards
• Short-listed, Next Generation Indie Book Award
• Joint winner, Best Books for Kids & Teens, Canadian Children’s Book Centre

“Unique and hilarious.” 

Best Books for Kids & Teens, Canadian Children’s Book Center, 01/20

“Fresh, zippy, and funny while at the same time engrossing and enlightening.” 

Booklist, 02/19

“Funny and powerful.” 

Youth Services Book Review, 11/30/18

“Inspiring and insightful, it’s a solid choice for a wide range of YA readers.” 

Resource Links, 10/19

“Reflective yet quippy memoir . . . insightful and helpful.” 

The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, 04/19

“Original and captivatingly funny . . . The writing is catchy and sophisticated.” 

CM Reviews, *starred review, 02/08/19

“A breezy, upbeat memoir.” 

Kirkus Reviews, 12/09/18

“Fun to read and filled with insights.” 

Guelph Mercury, 05/29/19

“Delightfully engaging and informative, this is a noteworthy addition to a school or public library.” 

School Library Journal, 02/19