SuitabookChester and Gus
Cammie McGovern
- Reading
- You could read together and pause to compare what Chester thinks is happening with what Gus does. Invite your child to notice where the story leaves Gus’s own perspective less directly heard.
- Themes
- Autism and communication: Gus is a non-speaking autistic boy whose behaviours are often misunderstood; Chester interprets them and the pair communicate telepathically. The book presents competing or mixed signals about this.
- Belonging and bullying: Gus faces social challenges at school, including bullying; Chester’s presence is also questioned by a teacher. The book’s stance on this remains unclear.
- Worth knowing
- Loud noises frighten Chester; the story also includes bullying of Gus and a frightening change affecting him. These elements may prompt discussion of distress and social treatment.