What’s Happening to Tom by Kate E. Reynolds
Short Summary
What’s Happening to Tom? by Kate E. Reynolds is a clear, concrete, and very literal puberty book written specifically for boys and young men with autism and related conditions. It focuses on explaining what changes happen, why they happen, and what to do about them – without overwhelm, euphemisms, or vague language.
Age Group
Suitable for children aged 10 to 14 years.
Topics Discussed
Autism | Disability
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Buy a copy of What’s Happening to Tom by Kate E. Reynolds from Amazon.
What this book is about
- What’s Happening to Tom? explains that puberty is a gradual process where bodies change over time.
- It introduces body hair in a reassuring way, helping boys understand that hair appears slowly and is a normal part of growing up.
- Common puberty changes are covered, including acne, voice changes, body odour, and the need for regular washing.
- Erections are explained clearly as a normal body response that becomes more frequent during puberty due to hormones.
- Wet dreams (nocturnal emissions) are described in simple, factual language, reinforcing that they happen to many boys and are nothing to be ashamed of.
- The book includes illustrations of other boys masturbating, which helps normalise the experience and reduce anxiety or confusion.
- Practical self-care is emphasised – showering or bathing, changing clothes, and putting wet sheets or pyjamas into the laundry.
- The focus stays on understanding and coping with changes, rather than going into detailed sexual behaviour.
- Puberty is framed as a step toward independence, with Tom recognising that growing up means he can do more things, just like his dad.
I hope you find this book review helpful!
Happy talking!
❤️ Cath