Books about epilepsy and seizures

This booklist includes books with characters who have epilepsy and books with characters that have seizures. The cause is not always explained or known, nor is it the same in every case. It’s important to note that those books set in historical times do show some ignorance and subsequent ill-treatment, which can be hard to read about. However, these are excellent books that are well worth every child reading.

  • See What I Can Do!

    by Jon Roberts, illustrated by Hannah Rounding 

    2021 4 to 9 years 

    • Around the world
    • Disability

    See What I Can Do! introduces a range of characters (based on real-life children) who each share an insight about disability and point out the challenges but also positive aspects of their lives. A beautiful book that celebrates individuality, empathy and understanding. 

  • The Tiger Who Sleeps Under My Chair

    by Hannah Foley 

    2023 9 to 14 years 

    • Behavioural/​emotional/​social

    In 1884, Emma Linden dreams of being a fossil hunter like her hero Mary Anning – but her world comes crashing down when her brother James becomes mysteriously ill. Meanwhile, in 2023, football-mad Jude finds a friend in Rosie Linden, who is plagued by visions of tigers and the need to protect the ones she loves.

  • Jayben and the Golden Torch

    by Thomas Leeds 

    2023 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Coming-of-age
    • Fantasy

    A curious, immersive fantasy with complex world-building, engaging characters and quirky creatures. Ideal for readers who enjoy an exciting adventure with added depth and intensity.

  • I Am Not A Label

    by Cerrie Burnell 

    2020 9 to 14 years 

    • Non-fiction
    • Autistic spectrum conditions
    • Behavioural/​emotional/​social
    • Disability
    • Learning disability
    • Mobility/​wheelchair
    • Visual impairment

    In this powerful and stylishly attractive non-fiction book, Cerrie Burnell introduces the reader to 34 disabled role models. 

  • Just Like Me

    by Louise Gooding, illustrated by Caterina delli Carri, Angel Chang, Cathy Hookey and Melissa Iwai 

    2021 9 to 14 years 

    • Around the world
    • Non-fiction
    • ADHD
    • Disability

    The author (who has ADHD) sets out to prove to neurodivergent (and all) children that you can overcome any potential limitations of a label. This glorious anthology encourages us to celebrate uniqueness and recognise our potential to achieve.

  • Talking to Alaska

    by Anna Woltz 

    2021 9 to 14 years 

    • Around the world

    When Parker discovers her beloved dog Alaska – who she had to give away last year – now belongs to Sven, she’s determined to steal her back. Of course, that’s much easier said than done… A heartfelt story about understanding others.