Books – where to find them
For several years OAASIS produced a ‘Recommended Reading’ information sheet which listed books on different learning disabilities. It was decided in June 2005 that this information sheet is no longer viable to maintain and keep properly up-to-date.This is because new research, theories, authors and publishing companies come to light, some books and their relevance fade into obscurity, new organisations and charities emerge to cover more of the autistic spectrum and other learning disabilities, and – of course - the growth in the use of the Internet. All of this means that with our limited resources, we cannot guarantee you a fully up-to-the-minute list of what is the best reading material available for your particular SEN interest.
OAASIS has now produced this list of publishers which should help you find the books you need to understand and support the young person/adult in your care. Should you have any difficulties, then please do get in touch and we will endeavour to help you in your search.
Publishers and organisations with a wide range of books:
Books Beyond Words
Website: www.rpsych.ac.uk/bbw
Tel: 020 7235 2351 x146
Picture books to help people with learning disabilities to understand difficult topics and deal with difficult emotions better. 27 different titles covering a range of healthcare and lifestyle issues.
British Institute of Learning Disabilities
Website: www.bild.org.uk
Tel: 08702 402 182
Books on a range of subjects including advocacy, autism, challenging behaviour, communication to sexuality. For parents, carers and professionals. Ordered via Book Source.
David Fulton Publishers
Website:www.fultonpublishers.co.uk
Tel: 0208 996 3610
Email: mail@fultonpublishers.co.uk
Ordered via Bookplace Ltd
Tel: 08000 921 554
Email: customerservice@bookplace-ltd.co.uk
A large range of books on learning disabilities, SEN and general school issues mainly aimed at educational settings.
Desktop Publications
Website: www.desktoppublications.co.uk
el: 01652 688781
A small, independent educational publishing company run by ex-teachers specialising in Special Needs. They produce useful teaching materials which can be ordered online.
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Website: www.jkp.com
Email: post@jkp.com
Tel: 0207 833 2307
An extensive range of books on many learning disabilities, with many relating to autistic spectrum disorders and Asperger Syndrome. Also on mental health, therapies, social work and more. Suitable for parents, people with ASDs., teachers and other professionals.
The National Autistic Society
Website: www.nas.org.uk
HO Publications Dep
Tel: 0207 903 3595
NAS books are ordered via Centre Books Ltd., 99 Wallis Road, London E9 5LN
Tel: 0845 458 9911
A range of information sheets, leaflets and publications for people with ASDs, parents, siblings, teachers and other professionals.
Email: nas@centrebooks.com
NSPCC
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk/inform
Email: publications@nspcc.org.uk
Tel: 020 7825 7422
Books and leaflets on child abuse and neglect, child protection, child and family law, parenting issues, families, schools and education. For children and young people, parents, carers, teachers and professionals.
Routledge Mental Health
Website: www.routledgementalhealth.co.uk
Tel: 020 7017 6000
Publishes books on psychotherapy, psychology, counselling, mental health, learning disabilities and others.
Sage Publications
Web: www.sagepub.co.uk
Tel: 020 7324 8500
(includes Paul Chapman Publishing and Lucky Duck books) for all professionals working in schools and educational settings.
SEN Marketing
Website: www.senbooks.co.uk
Email: info@senbooks.co.uk
Tel/Fax: 01924 871697
An independent company specialising in SEN for parents and professionals on AD(H)D, behaviour, speech & language, autistic spectrum disorder and much more
Speechmark Publishing Ltd
Website: www.speechmark.net
Tel: 01869 244644
A specialist publisher of practical books and resources and ColorCards® for professionals working with the educational and therapeutic needs of people of all ages.
…and don’t forget the internet bookshop www.amazon.co.uk
Lists of useful organisations which may produce their own publications are given on our individual information sheets for various learning disabilities, SEN issues and also ‘Useful Contacts and Websites’. Please contact OAASIS for the full list of information sheets or organisations relevant to you.
Cambian Education Services run seven residential special schools and colleges for young people with autistic spectrum disorders, Asperger Syndrome/HFA, severe learning difficulties. OAASIS can give you advice on the schools and send you their prospectuses.
OAASIS produces a wide range of free Information Sheets. Please contact OAASIS for the full list or view them at the website www.oaasis.co.uk. All the sheets are checked annually, please ensure you have the current version. OAASIS also produces other, chargeable publications for more in depth information on 8 learning disabilities entitled ‘First Guide to……’ wallet sized cards explaining 9 learning disabilities Contact OAASIS for a list and order form or visit the website.
© OAASIS (Office for Advice Assistance Support and Information on Special needs) This article can be freely reproduced with due attribution of authorship.