Joca
This is a children’s book that explores autism and friendship through the story of a boy inspired by the author’s son, psychologist Bárbara Rocha.
Author: Bárbara Rocha
Graphic Design: Diego Aguiar Teixeira
Joca is a children’s book that explores autism and friendship through the story of a boy inspired by the author’s son, psychologist Bárbara Rocha.
The story begins with a simple behavior common among many autistic children: the fascination with spinning and observing the wheel of a toy car. From this moment, the book invites readers to see the world through Joca’s perspective.
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Visual Concept
The visual concept emerges from the circular motion of the toy car wheel, which becomes a recurring graphic element throughout the illustrations.
Shapes and flowing colors connect the scenes and help represent the particular way Joca perceives the world.
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Character Design
Initially, Joca was developed as a more literal interpretation of the author’s son who inspired the story, but the design was softened to reach a more playful interpretation without losing its original essence. From there, additional characters were developed in the same style, also introducing diversity among the children.
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Process
After defining the character designs and the visual concept, the storyboard was developed. From there, each scene was sketched and finalized.
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The Creative Process and Illustrations
