Do you feel the wiggles when you are told to sit still?
Does your brain buzz with unstoppable ideas?
What if those things you thought were challenges were actually superpowers?
Meet Ben T. Finnigan, a boy with ADHD who feels frustrated when he’s fidgety and his big emotions take over. But with a little help, Ben discovers that his boundless energy, endless curiosity, and creativity are what make him extraordinary. This uplifting story celebrates the magic of neurodivergence, encouraging kids to embrace their differences and uncover their inner superhero.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Ben Theodore Finnigan is an energetic little boy whose body is usually in high gear, earning him the title of “happy tornado” by his mother. Ben isn’t allowed to move at lightning speed at school, though. His teacher would like Ben to slow down in the classroom, but that is difficult for him. Why? Ben has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, for short). It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that makes it challenging for individuals like Ben to stay focused or remain still. The author compared Ben’s brain to a race car, both moving quickly. Great comparison! In this book, we follow Ben’s journey as he learns to navigate his ADHD and discovers his unique superpowers.
ADHD has other symptoms, such as it can shrink one’s patience in waiting their turn. We saw that firsthand as Ben’s excitement caused him to cut the line to the paint table. His brain didn’t register how his action would upset others. It had one thought – get to the paints! A person with ADHD also tends to get distracted easily, and remaining perfectly still is nearly impossible. They often forget to do something and wiggle and fidget when calm bodies are needed. And, as we witnessed with Ben and bath time, their feelings can grow big, causing them to get easily frustrated and express their emotions loudly. I applaud the mom’s reaction to Ben’s outburst. She NEVER once yelled at him, but instead, she took a calmer approach. She waited for big feelings to subside, and when he was ready, she hugged him.
I loved the scene featuring Ben and his father discussing the day’s highs and lows – the happy and sad parts of the day. When Ben pointed out only the low parts, his father reminded his son of all his remarkable accomplishments this morning. We all make mistakes, and focusing only on the errors can dampen our moods and willingness to try again. We should all follow Ben’s dad’s example – help or remind our kids of everything they did good that day. Also, remember these five words – “I AM PROUD OF YOU”- can make all the difference in the world for a person!
One might think there is no upside to having ADHD, but we discover people with the condition have “superpowers.” No, you won’t run fast like The Flash, but the “High Energy Power” does keep you moving longer than the average person. Ben’s dad mentioned two other superpowers his son had, but mum’s the word on those. I encourage you to read the story to discover Ben’s other hidden powers. Ben’s mom points out superpowers we ALL have that can help us take life a bit slower or help raise our spirits. These, too, will be unveiled as you read the uplifting and loving story.
The technical term for ADHD can be tricky for children to say, but Ben’s story does a wonderful job explaining the symptoms behind the condition in terms a child can comprehend. The book shares positive aspects of the disorder—superpowers that can boost a child’s spirit about the diagnosis. The parents model good responses when their son is experiencing big feelings. It also offers coping strategies every reader can benefit from, leaving you feeling informed and knowledgeable about ADHD.
I highly recommend reading Ben T. Finnigan’s Awesome ADHD Superpowers. It is an uplifting story that explains ADHD in simple terms and reminds those with the condition to focus on the daily highs. It also features adorable illustrations that will make you smile, especially the ones containing Kojo the cat.
Amazon’s recommended reading age is 3-8 years.
Heart Rating System:
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Meet the Author
May Morrissey is a debut children’s picture book author, devoted mom, and nurse anesthetist by trade. Her writing journey began when her son was diagnosed with ADHD—a moment that forever changed the way she saw his world and how the world saw him. Fueled by a deep desire to make her son feel seen, heard, and valued, she set out to create stories that capture the energy, struggles, and superpowers of neurodivergent kids like him.
Inspired by real-life events in her family, May wrote Ben T. Finnigan’s Awesome ADHD Superpowers, a heartwarming and empowering story that highlights the challenges and triumphs of children with ADHD. Determined to ensure her son and kids like him felt understood and valued, she began crafting stories that bring to life the energy, challenges, and unique strengths of neurodivergent kids like him, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and brilliance that come with it. Through her books, she hopes to empower children, support parents, and create environments where neurodivergent kids can thrive.
May lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, their three children. When she’s not writing, she, loves indulging in a good dessert, enjoying a cozy cup of tea, and embracing the beautiful chaos of family life.
