Child With Autism Teaches
04/25/08By Annie Lehmann
Autism isn't curable, yet judging from popular literature on the subject (miracle-cure stories, treatment protocols and autobiographies by high-functioning individuals with the disability) one might think otherwise. This genre overlooks the countless individuals with severe autism, who despite extraordinary efforts by parents and teachers, never realize the gains described in these promise-filled books. That is why Ms. Lubliner Lehmann has written The Accidental Teacher: Life Lessons from my Silent Son. This heartfelt memoir looks back over two decades and recalls how the author's eldest son who has severe autism, became her teacher, ironically without intending to. Who is this book for and why is it different? This story adds to the body of autism literature by stepping beyond "miracle cure" or "recipes for remedies" stories. While the subject of The Accidental Teacher is a person with autism, its take on adversity-bred wisdom is meant to appeal to anyone who has faced a major life challenge -- and who hasn't? How can this book help others? We live in a society of quick fixes and a search for "closure," something autism eludes. Having a child with severe autism means learning to accept that pain can be a piece of life's pie, without eclipsing joy and meaning. Why write another autism memoir? Media focus is primarily on "responders," children who are allegedly cured or have made such dramatic gains that they are indistinguishable from their peers. (Detroit Free Press 3/10/08 headline reads "Autism no longer college obstacle"). This book gives voice to the multitude of children with autism who don't make the significant progress that is often reported. What is the purpose of this book? To educate, inspire and raise funds for the nation's largest autism advocacy organization, Autism Speaksâ„¢. When will the book be released? The book will be released in mid-April, Autism Awareness Month. Where can the book be purchased? The media can request a free review copy of "The Accidental Teacher: Life Lessons from my Silent Son" at pressreleases@authorhouse.com. The book can also be purchased at www.autism-mama.com . The book will also be available through bookstores and Amazon.com beginning in May. Annie Lubliner Lehmann, a freelance writer for more than 25 years, has published articles in many newspapers and magazines, including The New York Times and Detroit Free Press. "The Accidental Teacher: Life Lessons from my Silent Son" is her debut book. Ms. Lubliner Lehmann resides in Michigan with her husband and two of her three children. Her eldest son, 24, has severe autism, lives close by in his own home and is the inspiration for this memoir. Ms. Lubliner Lehmann is available for interviews.
About the Author
http://www.autism-mama.com
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