Children's Book, Zahir Speaks in Colors, Shines Light on Neurodiversity, Sibling Bonds, and Why Representation Matters

Empathy, inclusion, and unconditional love unfold in this beautifully illustrated children’s book written by Women for the Culture founder, Nikki Branch

EDISON, NJ, UNITED STATES, July 13, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Authentic stories featuring Black neurodivergent children are rare, which is what makes Zahir Speaks in Colors a groundbreaking release and an emotional triumph. Written by entrepreneur, empowerment coach, and mother of three Nikki Branch, this moving story marks the first time she is sharing her family's journey with the world. Through the eyes of Zoe, the youngest sibling in a tight-knit Black family, Branch shows how empathy can transform understanding, and how love often speaks loudest without words.

Designed for readers ages four to eight, Zahir Speaks in Colors is more than a picture book. It’s a mirror, a window, and a bridge reflecting the inner world of a non-verbal, autistic boy named Zahir and the everyday moments that help his family learn to meet him exactly where he is. Inspired by Nikki’s middle son, the book gives voice to children whose stories are often left untold, and offers tools for families navigating autism, communication differences, and emotional development. She says, "I see you. You are now your child’s biggest advocate." Her advice, "It’s so important to stay strong, do your research, ask questions, and never be afraid to speak up. Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer, and take advantage of every resource available to you. Build your community, you’re going to need that support." This first installment from The Sibling Squad brings attention to the lack of materials, books in particular, with Black characters (especially Black characters on the spectrum). Not only is Branch committed to increasing visibility in this space, "because our kids deserve to feel seen, too," but she's also showing connection that happens in a Black neurodiverse family.

In an attempt to join in on her brother’s joyful ritual of chalk art, Zoe, the youngest in the family, learns an unexpected lesson in perspective. Though she’s been taught how to play and share in traditional ways, those rules don’t always apply when someone’s world works differently. Her interaction with Zahir challenges her instincts and prompts a quiet shift... a transformation from confusion to compassion, from assuming to understanding.

“This book is for every sibling learning to listen with love,” says Branch. “Zahir communicates through color, through movement, through presence. We don’t need him to speak our way; we need to slow down enough to hear his.”

Through poetic narration and vibrant illustrations, the story captures a message often missing from conversations about inclusion: the importance of adjusting our perspectives instead of forcing others to adapt to ours. Each sibling brings something beautiful to the narrative:

Zahir, the non-verbal middle child, expresses emotion and thought through visual language

Zoe, the youngest, grows from misunderstanding to compassionate connection

Davante, the oldest, acts as a guide... modeling patience, insight, and quiet leadership

Designed with intention... "It’s not about superheroes or robots, it’s about everyday life, love, and understanding autism from a place of authenticity. And that’s powerful."

What sets the book apart is its ability to invite dialogue. The final pages include fun facts about Zahir’s world, reflection prompts, space to create sidewalk masterpieces, name tracing, and interactive mazes. Branch says, "So many times, we read a great story and then it's just... over. I wanted to give them a little surprise, a way to keep the conversation going, and let them connect more deeply with the characters." These activities give young readers an entry point into empathy and understanding, making it ideal for family reading, classroom SEL (social-emotional learning), or therapeutic environments. She continues, "It also gives parents and educators a chance to pause and reflect with their kids in a meaningful, engaging way." This story invites both children and adults to listen, learn, and lead with kindness.

Though Branch has shared pieces of her family’s story in small doses online, this book marks a bold new chapter... one that offers healing, representation, and connection to families who may be silently navigating similar paths. She says, "I know it can feel heavy and confusing, but this is just a storm that will pass. If you start watering your flower now, I promise your child will bloom." She continues, "It may not happen as fast as you hoped, but be patient. Be present. And most importantly, don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Every child shines in their own time and in their own way."

As July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, Zahir Speaks in Colors is both timely and vital. It centers a Black neurodivergent child in a way that is joyful and nuanced, while also highlighting the mental and emotional labor that parents and siblings carry. In a world that often overlooks the layered experiences of neurodivergent children of color, Branch’s book dares to take up space... and to do so gently.

“So many families, Black, White, Hispanic, and Asian, are having these same conversations. And I knew it was time to create something that could speak to that experience and help children better understand each other, especially when it comes to autism and how love can look different.”

Zahir Speaks in Colors is now, exclusively on Amazon, here: https://a.co/d/ig4QmgH. For more information, visit www.zahirsworld.com and @thisiszahirsworld on instagram.

Camille Davis
MontagePR
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