Sofia & Cleo

Sofia & Cleo: Oakley Comes to Visit is a heartfelt and emotionally grounded children's picture book about family, inclusion, friendship, and understanding the world through different perspectives.

When Oakley comes to visit for the day, Sofia and Cleo are excited to spend time together. But as the day unfolds, they begin to notice that everyone experiences things differently. Loud sounds, busy environments, routines, emotions, textures, and communication can all feel completely different depending on the person. Through gentle moments of play, curiosity, misunderstandings, and connection, the children learn that differences are not something to fear or "fix", but something to understand and support.

Told through warm, accessible storytelling and accompanied by full-colour illustrations, the story introduces young readers to themes including neurodiversity, autism, sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation, sibling relationships, empathy, and inclusion in a calm and age-appropriate way. Rather than presenting children as problems to solve, the book focuses on kindness, patience, emotional safety, and recognising that every child communicates and experiences the world in their own unique way.

Created by author and dad of four Robbie Barnes, the Sofia & Cleo series is inspired by real family life and lived experience raising autistic children, including a non-verbal child. Drawing from both personal experience and years supporting children with additional needs, the series was created to help children and families feel represented through stories that are honest, relatable, and emotionally authentic.

Unlike many books that approach autism from a purely educational or clinical perspective, Sofia & Cleo aims to normalise differences through everyday family moments that children can recognise and connect with. The series encourages conversations between children, parents, carers, teachers, and schools about communication, emotions, understanding others, and creating more inclusive environments for all children.

Perfect for children aged 3-7, as well as families, schools, libraries, nurseries, and SEND settings, Sofia & Cleo: Oakley Comes to Visit is a gentle and reassuring story that celebrates empathy, acceptance, and the importance of feeling seen, understood, and included.