Camille the Chameleon helps children understand masking and celebrate their true autistic self.
Meet Camille. Like many autistic children, she is very good at blending in. She hides her difficulties, suppresses her instincts and tries her best to look like everyone else. But masking comes at a cost, and with the help of Dr Gloria, Camille is learning to let her true colours shine.
Camille the Chameleon on Masking is a gentle, beautifully illustrated picture book that helps young autistic children understand what masking is, why it can be harmful, and the joy and relief that comes from being free to be yourself. Written by Dr Gloria Dura-Vila and illustrated by Rebecca Tatternorth, it introduces a complex and important topic in a way that feels safe, warm and accessible for young readers.
- Introduces the concept of autism masking in language young children can understand
- Explains why camouflaging autistic traits can be harmful to wellbeing
- Celebrates autistic identity and the joy of being your true self
- Features Camille and a cast of other autistic children sharing their stories
- Written by Dr Gloria Dura-Vila, a specialist in autism and child mental health
- Beautifully illustrated throughout in a warm, engaging style
- Hardcover format, ideal for home bookshelves, classroom libraries and therapy settings
Who it's for
Young autistic children. A gentle introduction to masking that helps children name and understand something they may already be experiencing but have never had words for.
Parents and carers. An ideal read-together book that opens up conversations about identity, authenticity and emotional wellbeing in a way that feels safe and positive.
Teachers and school counsellors. A valuable addition to any classroom library or wellbeing collection, particularly in schools that support autistic students.
Occupational therapists and psychologists. A useful tool for introducing masking in a low-pressure, story-based way during therapy sessions.
About masking and why this is helpful
Masking, or camouflaging, is when an autistic person hides or suppresses their autistic traits to fit in with those around them. While it can feel protective in the short term, sustained masking is widely reported to contribute to exhaustion, anxiety and a loss of sense of self.
Many autistic children mask without knowing they are doing it. This book gives young readers the language and the story to understand what is happening, and the reassurance that their true self is worth celebrating.
About the author and illustrator
Dr Gloria Dura-Vila is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and author specialising in autism and mental health. Her writing brings clinical expertise and deep compassion together in a way that speaks directly to children and families.
Rebecca Tatternorth is the illustrator. Her warm, expressive illustrations bring Camille and her friends to life in a way that feels joyful and affirming throughout.
Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, a leading publisher of books on autism, neurodiversity and mental health.
How to use this book at home or at school
At home. Read it together as a conversation starter. Camille's story gives children a character to relate to and a safe way to begin talking about their own experience of masking, without any pressure to open up before they are ready.
At school. Useful for wellbeing lessons, one-on-one support sessions and inclusive classroom discussions. Helps all children build understanding and empathy around autistic experiences.
In therapy. A gentle way for OTs, psychologists and counsellors to introduce masking as a topic with young clients, using story and character to reduce any sense of pressure or judgement.
Book details
Author: Dr Gloria Dura-Vila
Illustrator: Rebecca Tatternorth
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Dimensions: 251 x 248 mm
Published: 2025
ISBN: 9781805011033
NDIS
This product may be claimable under the NDIS depending on your plan, goals and budget. Check with your allied healthcare providers or plan manager for more information on what applies to your situation. The Sensory Specialist is a registered NDIS provider (Reg. 4-JWHBZTC). Get in touch if you need a quote or invoice.
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