Children’s Book Review: Henry’s Picture-Perfect Day by Jenn Bailey

HENRY’S PICTURE-PERFECT DAY
Henry Book 3
By: Jenn Bailey
Illustrated by: Mika Song
Published: March 18, 2025
Publisher: Chronicle Kids
Fiction

The much-loved character, Henry, an autistic student in Classroom 10, is back in the newest addition to the popular early chapter book series. It’s picture day and Mrs. Tanaka expects everyone to smile and take a perfect picture.

Henry isn’t happy about his collared and striped shirt. The collar was too close to his ears. The cuffs were too tight. There were too many buttons and the shirt had stripes. Many of his classmates were also dressed up and looking their best. Unfortunately, the photographer is late and the class needs to find something to do while they wait.

They can’t go outside or paint or eat cheesy puffs. But, they can have carrots. Henry lines up his carrots according to size, takes a bite, hears a crack, and then feels a wobble. Henry has a loose tooth. This loose tooth causes all kinds of chaos among Henry and his friends. By the time the photographer finally shows up, Henry’s striped shirt is no longer appropriate for the school picture. What is he going to do?

Since Henry is on the autism spectrum, changes to his regular routine can be frustrating for him. When he can’t wear his favorite sweatshirt or go about their regular activities he feels out of sorts. Henry has wonderful classmates who support him and encourage him. Even though this picture day ends up being quite out of the ordinary, Henry finds a way to feel comfortable during the photo.

I love that this series showcases kids that might not be typically seen in children’s books. Henry’s autism is handled with care by his classmates, even if sometimes they don’t always understand his behaviors. These types of books are important to teach kindness and understanding as well as offer a story where kids on the spectrum can see themselves in the characters.

Jenn Bailey is an author, editor, blue-ribbon pie baker, and eager traveler. She received her MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Born and raised in Rhode Island, she now calls Leawood, Kansas, home. Although her kids insisted on growing up, she and her husband, Kevin, still share their space with numerous cats and dogs. Check out her website, HERE.

Mika Song grew up in Manila, Philippines, and Honolulu, Hawaii. She moved to New York to attend Pratt Institute and worked in animation before making children’s books. She lives in New York City with her husband and daughter. Check out her website, HERE.

To purchase a copy of HENRY’S PICTURE-PERFECT DAY, click HERE.

Other Autism books you might like:

Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to make a purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.