CALVERT COUNTY, Md. — Growing up brings changes that can feel overwhelming — especially when few stories reflect what that experience is like for neurodivergent girls. For Saleen Brown, a Calvert County teenager who is autistic, navigating those changes became the inspiration to share her story.
That journey became “Strong Like the Moon: Saleen’s Story,” a book co-authored with her mother, Genna Ross. Written with warmth and honesty, the book follows Saleen as she learns to understand her body, manage sensory and emotional shifts, and advocate for herself using tools designed specifically for her needs.
Through her story, Saleen offers comfort and reassurance to other girls who may be navigating similar changes, reminding them that it is okay to move at their own pace and ask for the support they need.
Rather than take a one-size-fits-all approach, “Strong Like the Moon” highlights individualized support that helps Saleen feel prepared at home and in school. One of the most meaningful tools featured is a color-based system she uses to identify how she’s feeling. Each color represents different emotions or transitions, helping her better understand and communicate her needs throughout the week.
One part of growing up that is not talked about nearly enough — especially for neurodivergent girls — is learning about the menstrual cycle. A key part of Saleen’s journey has been the steady support of her mom, Genna, who worked alongside her to build personalized routines and coping strategies. By starting early and sharing what worked for their family, Genna hopes to make this stage of life feel less overwhelming for other families and to offer reassurance that preparation and open conversations can make a meaningful difference.
“It was important to start young, knowing it would take time to get used to new transitions and changes,” Genna said. She created a custom kit to help Saleen feel confident and in control before bigger changes arrived, allowing her time to learn what worked best for her body and routine.
Support at school also played an important role. Saleen shared that her one-on-one support teacher, Miss Sullivan, has helped her during the school day by providing consistency, encouragement, and understanding as she navigates daily routines and transitions.
The book’s title came from a quiet moment that stayed with them both while talking about changes and growing up. One evening, as Saleen looked up at the night sky, she shared how she was feeling.
“I feel strong like the moon,” she said.
That phrase, shared under a full moon, became the foundation of the story and its message.
When things feel overwhelming, Saleen said simple strategies help her reset.
“I take a deep breath,” she said, adding that using colors also helps her understand how she is feeling and what she needs in the moment.
When asked about how Saleen has been handling transitions at age 12 and preparing to turn 13, Genna said what stood out most was how smoothly she has adjusted and how naturally she has learned to advocate for herself. She understands her routines, knows when to take a break, and can clearly express what she needs in ways that work best for her. Genna said she is grateful for how well Saleen has navigated this stage of life and hopes other families who may feel worried or uncertain about similar transitions can learn from Saleen’s story and find reassurance through the book.
For families in Calvert County and across Southern Maryland, “Strong Like the Moon” fills a gap in youth literature by offering much-needed representation for autistic girls. The story speaks directly to teens while also offering parents, educators, and caregivers insight into how preparation, patience, and collaboration can make a meaningful difference.
Genna said involving children in the process — and giving them a voice — is essential, especially during big transitions.
By sharing her story, Saleen hopes other girls will feel seen and supported. Like the moon that inspired the book’s title, her story reflects growth through phases — steady, reflective, and strong in its own way.
“Strong Like the Moon: Saleen’s Story” is available now on Amazon.
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