A Spectrum of Light : Inspirational Interviews with Families Affected by Autism

The emotional trauma that families go through when they find out their child has an autism spectrum disorder can feel like being plunged into darkness. Francesca Bierens is here to show that there is also a light at the end of the tunnel. Over a period of fourteen years, Francesca Bierens interviewed ten families of children on the autism spectrum. This book records their answers: how they felt, how they coped, and what gave them strength and solace. Each family discusses how they reacted when they found out their child had autism, and their feelings leading up to diagnosis. They share their positive and negative experiences of professionals, and describe the support that they received, often from grandparents, respite care givers, support groups and other parents. Two of the original children, now in their 20s, also talk about the experience of growing up with autism, and describe how their lives are now. Above all, Bierens' message, and that of the families she interviews, is one of inspiration and hope, showing that there is light, love and laughter along the way. Their stories should be read by anyone who is affected by or working with autism.

The emotional trauma that families go through when they find out their child has an autism spectrum disorder can feel like being plunged into darkness. In this inspirational book, Francesca Bierens points us towards the light at the end of the tunnel.

Over a period of fourteen years, Bierens interviewed ten families of children on the autism spectrum. This book records how they felt, how they felt, how they coped, and what gave them strength and solace. Their stories show that there is no such thing as a typical autistic child; that each child's individuality should be respected and encouraged; that children with autism are cherished members of each family; and that, with the right support, there can be a bright and positive future. In an optimistic final chapter, two of the original children, now in their twenties, talk about their experiences of growing up with autism, and about how they have gone on to lead independent and successful lives.

Above all, Bierens' message, and that of the families she interviews, is one of inspiration and hope, showing that although there are challenges to be overcome, there is also light, love and laughter along the way. This inspiring book should be read by anyone who is affected by, or working with, autism.

Over a period of 14 years, the author interviewed 10 families with children of all ages on the autism spectrum. Their responses offer inspiration and hope for parents and families and for all those who work with children affected by autism. Lessons learned relate to everyday coping, cherishing the child with autism as a member of the family, and respecting each child's individuality. In the final chapter of follow-up interviews with seven of the families, two of the original children, now in their 20s and leading independent lives, talk about their experiences. Bierens is a speech-language therapist and primary school teacher. Annotation ♭2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Over a period of fourteen years the author interviewed ten families of children on the autism spectrum. This book records their answers: how they felt, how they coped, and what gave them strength and solace. Each family discusses how they reacted when they found out their child had autism, and their feelings leading up to diagnosis