Finn’s Wave of Change

by W Valentine

Ages: 7-12

Description

Join Finn O’Kuti, an eleven-year-old autistic boy from the Dublin suburbs, on a summer adventure that will warm your heart and inspire your spirit! Feeling like an outsider at school, Finn struggles to fit in—until a two-week surf retreat on the wild Sligo Coast changes everything. With the roar of the Atlantic waves, a shaggy dog named Balthazar waiting at home, and a loving but busy family cheering him on, Finn paddles into uncharted waters. He faces towering waves, makes unbreakable friendships, and discovers a confidence he never knew he had. Packed with laughter, triumphs, and heartfelt moments, Finn’s Wave of Change is a story of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of friendship. Perfect for middle-grade readers, this inclusive and uplifting chapter book celebrates diversity, neurodivergence, and personal growth—and reminds every child that being different is a strength, not a weakness. Ride the wave of friendship. Find your own inner strength.

About the Author

W Valentine lives on the west coast of Ireland and draws inspiration from the landscapes and stories of his home. As someone on the spectrum, he brings a unique perspective to his writing, which focuses on neurodivergent experiences to raise awareness among schools, teachers, and the wider public. His debut novel, Orla Storm: An Interstellar Voyage, was inspired by becoming a father and a lifelong love of children’s literature. Through vivid, technicolour characters, his stories celebrate difference, imagination, and the joy of discovery. He continues to write while building a growing family and hopes to share more adventures in future titles.