As a mother of a child with autism, I was leery about reading this novel as it's probably every mother's worst nightmare to learn their 'normal' child committed a crime, but for those of us with children who cannot speak for themselves let alone defend their actions it is truly something I fear for him in the future. I know enough of Picoult's writing to know there would be a twist to this story, but really did not expect the way it ended. She clearly did her research learning about Asbergers, PDD-NOS and autism. It brought back a lot of memories and also gave me much insight into what my daughter probably feels 100% of the time. I look at my beautiful son and am slowly learning to appreciate that he is trapped in a mind that can't take it all in - and that he is a brilliant boy who just wants to fit in. I loved Emma and her character and her development. She really spoke from the perspective of a parent with a child who 'has' autism. Think about it - if 1 our of 90 kids are diagnosed as being on the spectrum, those kids will grow into adults who may eventually enter our legal system. That is frightening, but realistic. I really applaud Jodi for doing her research and writing a fantastic novel. I was so fearful of reading it - but oh so glad that I did. ♥ thank you Jodi!