New youth book 'Declan Someone' celebrates neurodiversity

Maryland author Kate McElderry brings message of acceptance to young readers

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:52pm

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Next week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, and Maryland author and educator Kate McElderry is marking the occasion with the release of her new children's book 'Declan Someone.' The book aims to celebrate the different ways people think and learn, and McElderry will be hosting a special event at The Ivy Bookshop in Baltimore on Thursday evening for readers to meet her.

Why it matters

Neurodiversity, the recognition that people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways, is an important concept for young readers to understand. McElderry's book provides an accessible way for children to learn about and appreciate the diversity of human minds and abilities.

The details

In 'Declan Someone,' McElderry tells the story of a young boy named Declan who sees the world a bit differently than his peers. The book aims to celebrate Declan's unique perspective and the value of embracing neurodiversity. McElderry, who is also an educator, hopes the book will inspire young readers to be accepting of themselves and others.

  • Neurodiversity Celebration Week is next week.
  • McElderry will host a special event at The Ivy Bookshop in Baltimore on Thursday, March 13, 2026 from 6-8 p.m.

The players

Kate McElderry

A Maryland author and educator who has written a new children's book called 'Declan Someone' to celebrate neurodiversity.

The Ivy Bookshop

An independent bookstore in Baltimore where McElderry will host a special event for her new book.

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What they’re saying

“Neurodiversity, the recognition that people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways, is an important concept for young readers to understand.”

— Kate McElderry, Author (wbal.com)

The takeaway

McElderry's new book 'Declan Someone' provides an engaging way for children to learn about and appreciate the diversity of human minds and abilities, an important lesson during Neurodiversity Celebration Week and beyond.