Excellent use of research to enhance a story

The Boy Who Loved Too Much tells the story — and Latson does write it like a story, not a dry tome of science — of a boy named Eli with a genetic disorder called Williams syndrome. Described as the “anti-autism”, Williams syndrome breaks down social inhibition. Kids (and adults) like Eli are irrepressibly friendly, something that endears them to others but also worries their loved ones, since they go through life incredible vulnerable.

Latson follows Eli and his mother Gayle over 3 years, describing their lives and the difficulties (and wonders) that Williams brings. She goes into his medical care, the way that Williams affects his early-onset puberty, and how Eli and his mom are navigating this life together. Latson also includes chapters of research on Williams and other genetic disorders, and brief profiles of others with the syndrome.

It’s well-written and interesting, and it’s hard not to fall for Eli and his hard-working mother. If you like medical books, check this one out.