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book cover for When We Play

When We Play

Understanding Autism Through the Joy of Play

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Pub Date Sep 07 2025 | Archive Date Feb 28 2026

Purple Diamond Press Inc | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles


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Description

When We Play is a joyful, inclusive picture book that celebrates the different ways children connect, especially those who experience the world through a neurodivergent lens.

Told through the voice of a loving sibling, this story explores what play looks like in all its forms: spinning, singing, running, sitting quietly, or just being side by side. Whether loud or calm, playful or still, every way of playing is valid-and every child deserves to be seen, heard, and loved for exactly who they are.

Perfect for parents, educators, therapists, and families navigating sensory needs, autism, or developmental differences, When We Play fosters empathy, understanding, and unconditional connection.

Ideal for ages 3-8

Why readers love this book:

- Highlights neurodiversity in a child-friendly, heart-centered way

- Encourages inclusion, acceptance, and emotional awareness

- Reflects real family dynamics with warmth and honesty

- A powerful tool for classroom and home conversations about differences

Bilingual Spanish edition available 

When We Play is a joyful, inclusive picture book that celebrates the different ways children connect, especially those who experience the world through a neurodivergent lens.

Told through the voice of...


A Note From the Publisher

Ratu Megawangi (Illustrator)

Ratu Megawangi (Illustrator)


Advance Praise

“As an educator, my heart melts for the two children in the story. Their bond is clear from the start...Children need to learn to accept others despite their differences and the labels that are put on them. I think this book would be suitable for conversations on siblings, play, rules, acceptance, and friendship...When We Play by Vanessa Guervara is an easy-to-understand book that belongs in all early childhood and elementary classrooms.”

— Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite 

“As an educator, my heart melts for the two children in the story. Their bond is clear from the start...Children need to learn to accept others despite their differences and the labels that are put...


Available Editions

EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781639189441
PRICE $13.99 (USD)
PAGES 34

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Reader (EPUB)
NetGalley Shelf App (EPUB)
Download (EPUB)

Average rating from 40 members


Featured Reviews

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When We Play is a thoughtful and inclusive book that explores different ways children play. I loved that it included family time and fun adventures both inside and outside of the home. It includes gentle and age appropriate language that is perfect for young children to understand. The illustrations align perfectly with the story and are colorful and engaging.

Thank you to NetGalley and Purple Diamond Press for the advance copy!

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