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My Son on the Cover of a New Book

Posted by $ Abaco 7 years, 6 months ago to Books
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Thought I'd share something personal with my fellow Objectivists (and book lovers). Yesterday a book was published with a cartoon image of my son on the cover, in his karate outfit. His name is in the title, too, and the book is a bit of an instructional on how to interact with kids with autism. It's one of a short series of books being done by a very good behavioral therapist who has worked with my son early on and was inspired by him and the other kids she has worked with. I'll share more as I see it. Very proud of my boy. His recovery from the disorder is the best I've ever seen and remains one of the best ever documented. He has struggled and worked so hard. One of a handful of major milestones for him was achieving his black belt in karate. So, we're so pleased that is the image on the book. I first brought him to the karate instructor without any warnings as to what we were dealing with. That story alone, the karate, is one hell of a story. I wouldn't have believed the transformation had I not seen it myself.


All Comments

  • Posted by $ 7 years, 6 months ago
    The book arrived today. The first page has the statement, "This book is dedicated to Jack and his family. Watching him develop new skills, conquer fears, and become such a talented young man has given me so much happiness in my heart. He continues to be an inspiration to all."

    These words are perfect. And, the book is very, very good. I highly recommend it for children and adults trying to understand kids who have autism. Nicole does a great job unlocking the mysteries for those around those afflicted. The illustrations throughout are fantastic and really represent my boy well...so cool.
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  • Posted by LibertyBelle 7 years, 6 months ago
    From what I understand, people with autism some-
    times are also very intelligent.
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  • Posted by $ 7 years, 6 months ago in reply to this comment.
    When is that not a challenge? Lordy. My boy has a sister and has said, "Dad. Girls are crazy." "Yes, son. Yes they are..." LOL
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  • Posted by straightlinelogic 7 years, 6 months ago in reply to this comment.
    Recovery is not the norm. I'm happy to say our son has made it almost all the way back. He even joined a fraternity at his college last year. I think the last big challenge is females, but hell, that's a big challenge even for us neurotypical males.
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  • Posted by $ 7 years, 6 months ago in reply to this comment.
    Thank you sir. That's very mutual. The saying that routinely pops into my head: "Don't just beat autism. Kick its f&% a*!" My wife and I have been on this so hard. We are now revisiting the biomedical side more. He is my only son, the last one with our family name. I must get him to the point of setting sail on his own someday. As my high school football coach used to say, "Don't be denied."

    I attended a special Halloween party this weekend for families dealing with autism. I've made several dear friends in that group over the years. Our story of recovery isn't the norm. All the others are faced with the reality that their kids will never be independent. A few of them had children who passed away. Yet, these parents all smile, all radiate love. The damage this disorder has done to our society as a whole isn't just immeasurable, nobody seems to care to measure it. But, I see it all the time. Every year, after that party, I am overwhelmed with a big dose of reality, clarity.
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  • Posted by wiggys 7 years, 6 months ago
    indulge children in subjects they find interesting and they concentrate on them and seem to always succeed. don't stop now. congrats
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  • Posted by straightlinelogic 7 years, 6 months ago
    Congratulations Abaco, and you know I'm cheering especially hard for your son, and you and your family.
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  • Posted by $ gharkness 7 years, 6 months ago
    How exciting for your son! I know you are so very proud! I was all set to follow the link and take a look, only to discover that there isn't one! As a graphic artist who creates book covers, I'd absolutely love to see it! Plus, kudos all around.
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  • Posted by $ 7 years, 6 months ago in reply to this comment.
    Interesting.

    I'll follow up as I get into acquiring this book.

    And, please thank your wife for doing that work. It aint easy, I know.
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  • Posted by Dobrien 7 years, 6 months ago in reply to this comment.
    No. But is is a coincidence, that I also painted another gulchers son for a graphic novel cover.
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  • Posted by Dobrien 7 years, 6 months ago
    My wife has worked with preschool autistic kids for several years and I would love to get it for her.
    Please update when available. Congrats on this awesome milestone to your family and son.
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