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

by Francesca Bierens

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 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.

192 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2009

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not a practical book, in that there's no guidelines of which professionals to see/diets to try/behaviour programmes to investigate. But I think that's why I liked it. The families interviewed feel what I do - incredible love and pride for their child, and considerable despair at his lack of learning and oddness, plus fear for the future. But the future didn't turn out to be too bad for these families. Some of the children have remained non-verbal and very intellectually disabled but they are happy, cared for and still a huge part of their parents lives. the other nice thing was that the families were New Zealanders. I don't think anyone from England, Australia or the USA would spot this - the situations are universal - but it was so nice to see familiar organisations and expressions.

[Tricia · Rating 2 out of 5]

UK perspective. Portions of interviews randomly placed into book. If a reader is looking for a organized book with resources on what steps to take after their child's diagnosis, this is not the book. If they would like to read reassuring and explanatory anecdotes to help them understand other families' experiences, this is the book.