A new picture book from the founder of Autistic Pride Aberdeen celebrates identity.
One of the things we love most about POST is when people in our community get in touch to share what they’re working on. Marion McLaughlin did exactly that. Their new book, Morven’s First Autistic Pride, arrives on 10 June ahead of Autistic Pride Day on 14 June.
The book introduces young readers to the concept of being Autistic, and to Autistic Pride events, in a way that’s positive, accessible and neuroaffirming. That last word is doing real work here: this isn’t a book about overcoming difficulty or learning to cope. It’s about identity and belonging.
McLaughlin founded Autistic Pride Aberdeen and runs Aurora Autistic Consulting. A former primary school teacher and charity CEO, they bring years of professional experience alongside their own lived understanding to the project. That dual perspective shapes the book throughout.
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Meet Morven
The story follows Morven, a young dragon, beginning to ask questions about what it means to be Autistic, guided by a character called Cal. The themes are carefully chosen: identity, difference, sensory experience, Autistic culture, communication and belonging. The language is accessible to young readers while staying rooted in the values of the Autistic community rather than defaulting to the kind of framing that treats neurodiversity as something to be explained to neurotypical audiences first.
McLaughlin has been clear about what they wanted the book to do: “I wanted to create a story that helps Autistic children see themselves reflected positively, and helps others understand that being Autistic is not something to fix or hide. It’s who we are, and something we can be proud of.”
Made by Autistic creatives
The book was developed in collaboration with Autistic creatives throughout. The illustrations are by Connor Polley, an Autistic illustrator and digital creator who worked closely with McLaughlin to bring the characters and their world to life. All the artwork was made by hand before being finished digitally, a deliberate choice that reflects the book’s commitment to Autistic creativity at every stage.
Written primarily for Autistic children, the book is also a resource for families and educators looking to open up early conversations around neurodiversity in a way that is reassuring and grounded in Autistic experience. It builds on the work of Autistic Pride Aberdeen, which McLaughlin founded to create spaces for celebration and visibility across Scotland.
Morven’s First Autistic Pride is available in print and digital formats from 10 June and they will be reading the book at the Autistic Pride Aberdeen picnic at Duthie Park on 14 June.
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