Robbie Clark, all around awesome guy and a talented author and artist, is a young cousin of mine. Four years ago, I attended his graduation from Gus Grissom High School in Huntsville, Ala. Not too long afterwards, he announced his intention to write his life story. Knowing that there are amazing things going on in that mind, but that communication is often an issue, I was really excited about this prospect.
By turns heartbreaking and bursting with positive energy, In My Words: Stories of an Autistic Boy is obviously a labor of love by its young author. It is a series of vignettes from Robbie’s life, accompanied by commentary from his parents and sister. It was really interesting to see how differently they were all interpreting the same event and/or information. I took away two main lessons from this book: parents, you are the best (and sometimes only) advocate for your children. Sometimes a big change is needed, and you have to make the hard choice. The second lesson is even more important, for all its simplicity: be nice. We’re all so much happier without all the negativity.
In My Words: Stories of an Autistic Boy is available for your Kindle via Amazon or by Robbie’s website. (TIP: If you order a paper copy via his website, Robbie will inscribe it any way you like with a personal message.) It is definitely worth your investment, both time and money, to read this book. Sometimes we need reminders about what is truly important, and this book is certainly that.
I bought a copy and plan to read soon. As the mom of two on the spectrum, I love hearing directly from those on it and I can’t resist a powerful self advocate. Kudos to your cousin and his family!
Thanks, El! I hope you enjoy it.