Tom Needs to Go book by Kate E. Reynolds

Short Summary

Tom Needs To Go by Kate E. Reynolds is a clear, practical picture book created specifically for boys and young men with autism and related conditions. It walks through how to safely and appropriately use public toilets – including understanding the difference between urinals and cubicles, what to do in each space, and the social rules that help everyone feel comfortable.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 8 to 14 years.

Topics Discussed

Autism | Disability

Buy a Copy

Buy a copy of Tom Needs to Go book by Kate E. Reynolds from Amazon.

What this book is about

• Tom Needs To Go follows Tom while he’s out shopping with his mum and suddenly needs to use a public toilet.
• The book clearly explains the difference between urinals and cubicles, and when each one is appropriate to use.
• Tom chooses a cubicle when he needs to do a poo, and later confidently uses a urinal when he needs to wee.
• The book explicitly teaches toilet etiquette, such as not staring at or commenting on other people’s bodies.
• It covers practical steps like locking the door, pulling pants down, wiping, flushing, and washing hands.
• When using a urinal, the book explains keeping pants and underwear in place, not touching the urinal with the penis, shaking off excess urine, and zipping up afterwards.
• The language is direct, visual, and rule-based – which is exactly what many autistic kids need.
• This book fills a huge gap, as there are very few resources that clearly explain public toilet use in a developmentally appropriate, non-shaming way.
• While it won’t cover every family’s preferences or every possible scenario, it’s an excellent starting point that parents can build on.

I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath