Stick Nick's Recess Band

In Stick Nick's Recess Band, young readers meet Nick, a bright and imaginative boy who experiences the world a little differently. Nick is autistic—he finds loud noises overwhelming and has trouble connecting with his classmates, often leaving him feeling alone and misunderstood. But Nick has a hidden gift: when he picks up his drumsticks, he speaks through rhythm in a way words never could.

One day at recess, everything changes. With courage in his heart and his drumsticks in hand, Nick creates a beat that draws curious ears—and eventually, open hearts. Through the universal language of music, Nick forms a playground band and finds something he never expected: friendship, acceptance, and a place where he belongs.

This heartfelt story celebrates neurodiversity, creativity, and the power of being true to yourself. It gently encourages empathy and shows that sometimes, the best way to be heard is to let your heart do the drumming.