At the Autism Society of America, we believe in the power of stories to create connections and foster true acceptance. Today, we are thrilled to celebrate a remarkable milestone for one of our own.

Jennifer Cook, a member of our Board of Directors and the Chair of our Council of Autistic Advisors, has seen her work, My Friend Julia: A Sesame Street Book About Autism, named to TIME’s “25 Books That Capture This American Moment” list.

Part of TIME’s “Our America 250” collection, this list identifies the 100 books that have shaped the American narrative. For the Autism community, this recognition is profound. It signals a shift in the national conversation. one where the Autistic experience is not just a footnote, but a fundamental part of the American story.

Why “My Friend Julia” Matters For those who haven’t yet met her, Julia is Sesame Street’s first Autistic character. In Jennifer’s book, we see Julia’s world through a lens of friendship and commonality. It highlights her incredible talents. like her artistic flair and her focus. while honestly depicting the things that make her unique.

When speaking to Jennifer about this honor she shared, “’Seeing a book about an Autistic child included alongside such iconic literary voices is honestly pretty overwhelming. But what moves me most is the framing itself: the idea that authentic neurodivergent stories are increasingly being recognized not as niche stories, but as part of the American story.”

By inclusion on this prestigious list, My Friend Julia is recognized as a vital tool for the next generation. It teaches children (and the adults reading with them) that being different isn’t something to simply “tolerate”. It is something to celebrate.

Leadership in Action Jennifer’s contribution to this list is no surprise to us at the Autism Society. As a Wall Street Journal bestselling author , co-star of Netflix’s “Love On the Spectrum,” and a tireless advocate, she brings her lived experience and professional expertise to everything she does. Whether she is advising our leadership through the Council of Autistic Advisors or representing the community on the world stage, Jennifer embodies our mission to empower everyone in the Autism community to live fully.

We invite you to join us in congratulating Jennifer on this incredible achievement.

Read the article in TIME