In Bitsy Bat, Team Star, Kaz Windness once again delivers a beautifully illustrated, meaningful story that will resonate with young readers—especially those who see the world a little differently. Following Bitsy Bat, School Star, this sequel introduces a new character, Enzo Owl, a nonspeaking student who uses an AAC device or communication tablet. When Bitsy feels her place as the "fantastic flier" at Crittercrawl Elementary is threatened, she learns a valuable lesson about teamwork, inclusion, and what truly makes someone special.
This charming and heartfelt picture book not only tells an engaging story but also provides representation for autistic children, showing the beauty of neurodiversity in a way that's accessible and empowering.
Title: Bitsy Bat, Team Star
Author: Kaz Windness
Illustrator: Kaz Windness
Publisher: Beach Lane Books
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Formats: Hardcover, eBook
Synopsis:
Bitsy meets a new nonspeaking student at school and learns the importance of being a star teammate and friend in this sequel to the “darling” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) Bitsy Bat, School Star from Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor–winning author-illustrator Kaz Windness.
Bitsy Bat is a star student and the only fantastic flier at Crittercrawl Elementary…until a new nonspeaking student named Enzo Owl arrives and outflies her during recess. Bitsy worries her friends won’t think she’s special anymore, so she’s determined to beat Enzo in the upcoming Critter Games and prove she’s the better flier.
But when her friend Mo needs help during the race, Bitsy must choose between winning and being a star teammate. And while she’s at it, she just might discover that making a new friend is more special than any trophy.
This sequel to Bitsy Bat, School Star is told from an autistic perspective and celebrates how our differences make each of us shine brightly on our own and as part of a team.
My Review
Bitsy Bat is confident in her flying abilities until Enzo arrives and outshines her at recess. Her fear of losing her "star" status is something many kids will relate to—especially those who have worked hard to stand out in their own way. But when faced with the choice between winning a competition or helping a friend, Bitsy discovers that being a great teammate is more important than being the best. This message about sportsmanship and inclusion is delivered in a way that is both age-appropriate and deeply meaningful.
🦉 Representation That Matters
One of the standout aspects of this book is its authentic autistic perspective. The inclusion of Enzo, a nonspeaking character who communicates through an AAC device, is incredibly significant. For children who use AAC devices—or know someone who does—this representation is powerful. It normalizes different ways of communication and highlights the importance of understanding and accommodating others.
🎨 Adorable, Expressive Illustrations
Kaz Windness’s illustrations are absolutely darling! The colorful, whimsical artwork brings Crittercrawl Elementary to life, making the characters feel even more relatable. Every emotion—joy, frustration, determination—is beautifully conveyed, making it easy for young readers to engage with Bitsy’s journey.
📚 A Thoughtful Glossary for Young Readers and Parents
Another fantastic feature of this book is the glossary at the end, which explains terms like "meltdown," "stimming," and "parallel play." For kids, parents, and educators who may not be familiar with autism-related vocabulary, this addition is both educational and valuable. It helps foster understanding and acceptance, making Bitsy Bat, Team Star an excellent resource for classrooms and libraries.
What I Loved 💖
✔️ Adorable, vibrant illustrations that bring the characters to life.
✔️ Positive, meaningful representation of autism and different communication styles.
✔️ A strong message about friendship, teamwork, and inclusion.
✔️ A helpful glossary that introduces important autism-related terms.
One Minor Critique 🤔
The book refers to Enzo's AAC device as a "communication tablet" rather than its proper term, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. While "communication tablet" makes more sense I think the author should have added its technical name in the glossary section. This is a minor complaint since most call it based on what it does for them, like my client and her family—prefer to call it a "talker" instead. A minor detail, but one worth noting!
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Young Readers 🌟
Bitsy Bat, Team Star is a heartwarming, beautifully illustrated story with an important message about inclusion and friendship. Kaz Windness has created a book that will make many kids with autism feel seen and understood, while also teaching neurotypical children the importance of empathy and teamwork.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or librarian, this book belongs on your shelf!
⭐ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Have you read Bitsy Bat, Team Star? Let’s chat in the comments! 🦇📚✨
About the author:
KAZ WINDNESS (she/her) is the author-illustrator of picture books Swim, Jim! and Bitsy Bat, School Star, which received starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, and BookPage. She created the Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Level 1 Ready-to-Read Graphics book Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends, which received a starred review and is a Junior Library Guild selection, and the Level 1 Ready-to-Reads Cat vs. Vac and Go! Go! Dino!. Kaz is also the illustrator of Ollie, the Acorn, and the Mighty Idea by Andrew Hacket and the author of When You Love a Book, illustrated by Heather Brockman Lee. When she’s not writing or illustrating books, Kaz teaches illustration at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and enjoys making deep-dish pizza. Kaz lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband, two children, and Boston terrier. Visit her at WindnessBooks.com.
Comments