I’m Lilly, excited for a newcomer. Teacher smiles, 'Class, this is Tom.' Tom stares at shoes, very quiet. The bell clangs; he covers ears. I whisper, 'Hi,' but he doesn’t answer.

The New Student

Next day, Teacher says, 'Lizzy is missing!' Our class checks boxes, shelves, corners. I ask Tom, 'Want to help?' He nods, looking toward the reading nook. Tom whispers, 'I heard scratching there yesterday.'

Where Is Lizzy?

Hallway noise rises, and Tom winces. Teacher quietly offers headphones; Tom relaxes. We tiptoe to the nook together. Tom points, 'Warm light means Lizzy nearby.' Behind the curtain, our bearded dragon blinks.

Quiet Clues

Tom moves slowly, cupping his hands. I whisper, 'Easy, Lizzy. We’ve got you.' He breathes steady; Lizzy climbs in. Teacher smiles, 'Great teamwork, you two!' I grin, 'Different isn’t distant,' and Tom smiles.

Teamwork and Tom

A 8 year old european girl with fair skin

Lilly

has bright orange headphones on and in school uniform

An 8 year old european boy with short black hair, wearing bright orange headphones and a school uniform

A 35 year old asian woman with a kind face

A 35 year old asian woman with long black hair, a kind face and dressed in a teacher uniform

Teacher

Lizzy

My New Friend Tom’ is a heartwarming children’s picture book for 7–11-year-olds. It is a fictional story about a girl who is excited to meet a new student coming to her school, called Tom. Tom seems unresponsive whenever she tries to talk to him, and she worries that he doesn’t like her. He behaves differently from the other children, struggling with loud noises and making conversation. When the class pet, Lizzy, goes missing, the girl discovers Tom’s unique strengths and that maybe he isn’t so different. Through this experience, they find a way to connect and become friends. Although not stated explicitly in the book, Tom has autism. This book helps children understand and respect autistic behaviours, highlighting both strengths and challenges while encouraging empathy and inclusion. It highlights messages of inclusion, friendship, celebrating differences, and teamwork. 