I Am Autistic by Chanelle Moriah

I Am Autistic is a reassuring, easy-to-read guide created by autistic author and illustrator Chanelle Moriah. When Chanelle was diagnosed at 21, everything finally made sense, and now they’re offering that same clarity and compassion to families wanting to better understand their autistic tamariki.

Written in a warm, relatable voice, this book gently explains how autism can influence sensory needs, communication, emotions, routines, and daily life. Chanelle’s illustrations help bring concepts to life, and their lived experience brings an authenticity that many parents find grounding and deeply validating.

This book gives whānau language, insight, and tools to better understand and support their child’s unique way of experiencing the world.

How you might use this book:

• Use the clear explanations to talk with teachers, extended whānau, or professionals about how to best support your child.
• Highlight or jot notes in the reflection spaces to personalise it to your child’s lived experience.

• Revisit chapters as new developmental stages or challenges arise - each one offers practical, affirming guidance.

Whether your child is newly diagnosed, awaiting assessment, or you want deeper insight into how they experience the world, I Am Autistic is a compassionate companion for every parent raising an autistic child.

About the author:

Chanelle Moriah (they/them) is a neurodivergent author and illustrator based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington. Chanelle is autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic, and draws on their own lived experience to create accessible, affirming resources focused on neurodivergence.

Chanelle works for Autism New Zealand, gives public talks around Aotearoa, and is involved with a local disability leadership group. They care deeply about creating resources that help people feel seen, understood, and less alone - and about giving others the opportunity to learn more about neurodivergent experiences.