**I Am Lenny Brown by Dan Freedman is a heartfelt and inspiring middle-grade novel that delves into the challenges of communication, change, and self-expression.

The story follows eight-year-old Lenny Brown, a bright and creative boy who doesn’t speak—except to his mum and his dog, Rocky. When Lenny’s family moves to a new town, he faces the daunting task of starting at a new school, navigating grief, bullying, and the complexities of fitting in without the comfort of verbal communication.

Freedman masterfully portrays Lenny’s internal world, offering readers a window into the experiences of children who face similar challenges. Educators and reviewers have praised the book for its sensitive handling of topics like anxiety, grief, and the importance of finding one’s voice. One educator noted that the story is “thoughtful, sensitive and engaging,” highlighting its potential to help young readers understand and empathize with peers facing similar struggles.

The narrative is not only emotionally resonant but also accessible, making it an excellent choice for classroom discussions or family reading. Lenny’s journey encourages readers to consider the various ways people communicate and the importance of patience and understanding.

Published by Puffin, I Am Lenny Brown is available in paperback and digital formats. It’s a compelling read for children aged 8–12, as well as for parents and educators seeking stories that address emotional resilience and the power of self-expression. 

“I am Lenny Brown” is a heart felt story about 8 year old Lenny, who is encouraged to step into his true potential. A beautiful story, with touching illustrations and captivating words which provoke a sense of empathy for Lenny as he journeys through new experiences all the while strengthening his resilience.

An excellent resource for SEN educators on situational mutism and social anxiety and the complexities and support needed for many young people who struggle with their voice. A beautiful reminder also, of the reflection many adults receive from reading this book, back to their younger selves when finding their voice as a young person was such a struggle.

A must read!

I am Lenny Brown
By Dan Freedman
Published by Penguin Random House

Dan Freedman writes about those feelings we all have when we have to do something for the first time: nerves, worries, letting people down, embarrassment. But Lenny Brown is only eight years old and can't talk. Except to his mum and his dog, Rocky.
This gorgeous, short chapter book takes us on Lenny’s journey: moving house, his first day at school, finding new friends and making things better for himself & his mum.
Blessed with fabulous illustrations, we see Lenny move house and start at a new school but it feels like his whole life is changing, and not for the better.
Will he fit in?
Will he find new friends?
So Lenny makes it his mission to make some changes…to make friends, fit in and to talk.
A heartwarming story of selective mutism, anxiety, finding friendships, family and belonging. A must read for all!

Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.

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A good story about overcoming adversity for 6 to 10 year olds. The diary entries were particularly good, showing the thought process and what is important to kids.

Making new friends is never easy, but when you are Lenny it’s even harder. He’s a fun, intelligent & creative child, but his confidence is zapped when he needs to speak to anyone other than his Mum & his dog. Extra pressures make his anxiety to speak worse, and a new challenge of moving school is a step too far.

Freedman has created such a delightful main character that you would want to envelop him into a huge hug if he stepped off the page. We can all get overwhelmed at times and through the eyes and kind heart of Lenny, readers can feel great empathy and affection. He shows us that everyone is valid and everyone matters. The important discussion points such as dealing with grief and bullying were handled in such a sensitive manner that will be understood for younger readers, and I think this would be an excellent resource for schools.

Sometimes the most important voice isn't what you are expecting!

I am Lenny Brown is a thoughtful, sensitive and engaging story of changing schools at a complicated time in life. Lenny is eight years old and problems speaking with most people. As we read, we discover some of the reasons why this may be. Without giving anything away, Lenny's story leads us through the difficulties of grief, bullying, moving house and more. Very carefully and delicately written, I am Lenny Brown will help other young people understand what might be going on in their friends lives. The story may also help people with similar experiences. Highly recommended.