Celebrating Neurodiversity Through Story: A Special Visit from Children's Book Author, Sabrina Fillers-Hurd

At Anniston Academy, we believe that representation isn’t just important, it’s transformational. That’s why we are so excited to welcome children’s author Sabrina Fillers-Hurd to read her book, The Wild Monkey Brothers: Milo and Jax’s Every Day Adventure, to our students.

A Story That Reflects Our Students

The Wild Monkey Brothers: Milo and Jax’s Every Day Adventure introduces readers to two energetic, curious monkeys whose personalities are inspired by children with autism and ADHD. These aren’t characters who need to be “fixed” or changed, though. They are vibrant, capable, and full of life exactly as they are and that's exactly what we aim to share each day with our students.

Many of the children we serve rarely see themselves reflected in books in a way that feels authentic and affirming. Too often, stories either overlook neurodivergent experiences or frame them as something to overcome. This book does the opposite, it celebrates them.

When our students hear Milo and Jax’s story, they’re not just listening. They’re recognizing pieces of themselves:

• The big energy

• The sensory needs

• The unique ways of thinking

• The challenges that don’t define them

• The strengths that make them who they are

Why Author Visits Matter—Especially Here

Having Sabrina Fillers-Hurd read directly to our students adds another powerful layer to this experience.

It shows them:

• That their stories are worth telling

• That people care enough to create books just for them

• That their differences are not only accepted—they are celebrated

For many of our students, traditional learning environments haven’t always felt safe or supportive. Moments like this help rewrite that narrative. They create connection, excitement, and a sense of belonging. And importantly, they make reading feel meaningful.

More Than a Book: A Message

This visit aligns deeply with who we are as a school community. Anniston Academy was built on the belief that neurodivergent children deserve spaces where they are understood, supported, and empowered to thrive. This story reinforces that message in a way that is accessible, engaging, and joyful.

It tells our students:

• You are not alone

• You are understood

• You are enough

  
  

The Impact We Hope to See

We don’t expect this to be just a one-day event that comes and goes.

We expect:

• Students quoting and connecting with the characters

• Inspiration for other characters or storylines

• Increased interest in reading and storytelling

• Conversations about differences that feel positive and empowering

• A deeper sense of pride in who they are

Because when children see themselves reflected in stories, it changes how they see themselves in the world.

A Moment That Matters

We are incredibly grateful to Sabrina Fillers-Hurd for bringing this story, and this message, to our students. Experiences like this are a reminder of why we do what we do. Not just to educate, but to create a community where every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.

And sometimes, all it takes to spark that feeling is the right story.

If you would like to purchase The Wild Monkey Brothers: Milo and Jax’s Every Day Adventure, you can do so on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Monkey-Brothers-Every-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0F9TZ4J3N.