Bitsy Bat, Snow Star

posted on October 20, 2026 by Eve Panzer

Written by an autistic author, this book explores an aspect of autism. Release date: October 27, 2026

Bitsy Bat is not afraid to try something new, so when she sees her first snowfall, she wants to experience it – despite the fact that bats hibernate in the winter because they cannot tolerate cold weather. With her friends’ help, Bitsy bundles up to explore the snow.

As they introduce Bitsy to their favorite snow activities – making snow angels, riding sleds, and snowball fights, Bitsy learns she does not enjoy how these activities make her feel cold, wet, and scared. But what will her friends think of her

It is important for picture books to be windows and mirrors. Children need to see themselves in books so they can learn they are not alone. But children should also learn about people who are different from them in books. Books should also help children accept those who are different from them by opening the door to let them into their lives. And that is exactly what this book does. Autistic author/illustrator Kaz Windness has done just that with this new book in the Bitsy Bat series.

This book is an invaluable resource of information about autism. The endnotes include definitions of neurodivergent and autism, as well as explanations of neurodivergent terminology such as shut down, autistic masking, and stimming. The author also includes a personal note where she explains, “I wrote this story as a reminder that it’s okay to share how we’re really feeling, and as a celebration of friends who support one another’s differences”

BUY NOW! Bitsy Bat, Snow Star

Written and illustrated by Kaz Windness

Publisher: Beach Lane Books

Thank you to Alex Kelleher-Nagorski and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for the review copy.

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