Don't Squeeze the Spaceman's Taco

More about the book

My name is Kelly Jude Melerine, and I’m a proud father to Cade, my teenage son with autism. Cade embodies love and soul, and despite suggestions to place him in a home, he has a home with us. I share our journey in my memoir, which captures the realities of living with autism. The title, inspired by one of Cade's unique phrases, reflects the humor and heart of our experiences. My story is filled with honesty, love, laughter, and tears, offering insights into my childhood in southeastern Louisiana, where my mother battled mental illness. Her inspirational poetry has been a guiding light through the chaos of my life today. This memoir isn't a typical self-help guide; it portrays life with autism as anything but ordinary. It depicts a family that defies conventions, one that faces challenges head-on, often in messy and unconventional ways. It’s a narrative about resilience, not the polished version of family life seen in commercials. It highlights the lessons learned through heartache and chaos, transforming struggles into moments of joy. Ultimately, it’s about tackling unthinkable challenges and finding strength in forgiveness, illustrating what it truly means to navigate life with autism and maintain family bonds.