In the tender pages of Spend a day with Alex, Dr. Ralph “Defender” Morales invites us into a world that is both beautifully ordinary and quietly extraordinary—a day in the life of a young boy named Alex. Alex is not your typical chatterbox; he doesn’t say much, but the sparkle in his eyes, the bounce in his steps, and the giggle that escapes when he’s truly happy tell us everything we need to know.
This children’s book is more than just a story—it’s a heartfelt tribute from a father to his autistic son and an effort to bridge the gap of understanding between neurotypical children and those who experience the world differently.
Right from the beginning, we meet Alex with an open heart. “Hi, my name is Alex. I don’t say much, but I know what I like!” This simple introduction captures the essence of the book. There’s no pretense—just honesty, innocence, and joy. Alex may not express himself through words, but his preferences, routines, and laughter speak volumes. Through Alex’s quiet but rich narration, we are invited to see the beauty in simplicity and the magic in the mundane.
The story takes us on a delightful journey through Alex’s favorite part of his day—a visit to the farm. It’s not just a field trip. For Alex, it’s an escape, a sanctuary, and a sensory wonderland. The farm is his “happy place.” The gentle bleating of goats, the rhythmic clucking of chickens, and the earthy smell of hay all combine to create a symphony that calms his mind and brings him joy. This is not a place of therapy or treatment, but a place of connection and happiness. When Alex feeds the animals, we see his caring nature. When he giggles at a curious pig sniffing his shoe or smiles as a sheep nudges his hand, we’re reminded that communication comes in many forms—and sometimes, smiles are louder than words.
Dr. Morales weaves this story with such tenderness that it becomes clear this book is a labor of love. But it’s also a call to action. It asks us—parents, teachers, caregivers, and children—to look beyond labels. Autism, often misunderstood or feared, is shown here as simply a different way of being, not a lesser one. Alex is not “broken” or in need of fixing. He is a vibrant, loving child with likes, dislikes, routines, and joys, just like anyone else.
Without preaching or overwhelming, it opens a door. Kids can see themselves in Alex’s love of animals, his need for routine, or his excitement at familiar places.
What makes Spend a day with Alex so powerful is its universality. Though rooted in one child’s unique experience, the emotions are ones we all recognize—joy, comfort, excitement, and connection. The illustrations, paired with rhythmic, heartfelt prose, offer a sensory-rich experience that mirrors how many autistic children engage with the world. Bright, simple, and expressive, they invite readers to not only see what Alex sees, but to feel what he feels.
In a time when understanding and empathy are more important than ever, Spend a day with Alex is a gift. It shows that “normal” is a flexible term, one that shouldn’t be used to define or exclude. It encourages children to be curious, compassionate, and kind. And most importantly, it gives autistic children a voice—even if that voice is spoken not with words, but with smiles, laughter, and the unspoken language of love.
Now also available in Spanish language: Pasa un dia con Alex
