This poignant and sometimes humorous story spans twenty years in a family with four unique boys, all diagnosed with classic, non-verbal autism. It illustrates how a parent's determination and love can transform their children's lives. Each chapter begins with a relevant quote or excerpt, setting the tone through insights from specialists, the boys, or the author, adding factual weight to the narrative. While many families face similar challenges, this family's experience is distinct due to the shared diagnosis of all four boys. The book explores recurrent themes such as the lack of support for children with autism, the struggles parents face, and the general lack of awareness from those outside the autism community. It also highlights the unexpected positive support and respect the family receives, the boys' efforts to express their true selves and abilities, and their remarkable potential for growth and change. Above all, the story celebrates the immeasurable love the family holds for their children, emphasizing that love is a powerful force in overcoming challenges.
Sarah Ziegel Book order (chronological)
Written from the heart by a former nurse and largely informed by the author's own experiences dealing with her four boys diagnosed with autism, it offers insight not only for the practicalities of how to help your child, but also the emotional impact that having a child with autism inevitably has on a family.