Paperback Pals is a welcoming book club specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum with 2nd to 5th-grade reading levels. Our sessions create a supportive environment where stories come to life; volunteers lead read-alouds while each child follows along with their own copy of the book to build confidence and literacy. Following the reading, we host a facilitated discussion where kids can share their thoughts and connect with peers. Every meeting concludes with a unique cooperative activity designed to foster teamwork and fun in a low-pressure setting. We invite parents to stay for the duration of the class to be a part of our growing community of readers.
Paperback Pals was born from a simple observation: children on the autism spectrum often face a sense of isolation in traditional social and school settings. We are here to change that. By providing a dedicated space for shared stories, we aim to end the loneliness so often experienced by neurodiverse youth. Our club is more than just a reading group; it is a community where kids can truly belong, grow their love for literature, and build genuine friendships in an environment that celebrates exactly who they are.