I just finished reading this amazing book by Jodi Picoult called House Rules.
If you haven’t read it yet I highly recommend you do so. Especially if you’re a teacher.
It’s all about a teenaged boy with asperger’s who’s accused of committing a murder. The story is told from varying viewpoints; the boy’s, the mom’s, the brother’s, the lawyer’s.
Not only is this an AMAZING story it also really opens your eyes, mind and heart as to what it might be like for a person dealing with autism or asperger’s.
After you read House Rules be sure to pick up this little gem: Understanding Sam and Asperger’s Syndrome.
This book was recommended to me by a blog friend and I’m so happy I bought it!
It’s written by Liezl Venter, a speech language pathologist, and illustrated by Clarabelle van Niekerk.
It’s a beautiful and vibrant story full of love, tenderness and acceptance. It’s a gentle glimpse into a family’s life both before and after the asperger’s diagnosis.
Everything is simply told, but is very much to the point. Nothing is belaboured; all the quirks and concerns are addressed in a matter-of-fact tone.
I plan to read this book to my Grade 1 class in the fall. This is when I usually read lots of character building stories and this one will fit in beautifully!
At the end of the book there’s a letter written by the author to “The Kids”! There’s also a section of tips to keep in mind if you live, play or work with a person with asperger’s.
Here’s a video for kids that helps explain what’s going on if a friend has asperger’s:
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER! NEVER MISS FREEBIES & UPDATES
Yay … I have BOTH of those books and totally agree with you! Hadn't seen that clip before … thanks!Barbara
I value everything you recommend. I am ordering both books right now. I think we have to start understanding asperger's more than ever. It's either more prevalent or we are more aware. Either way I want to know more.xoKimberleyFirst in Maine
I read House Rules last summer. I have to admit I cried many times!
I've read House Rules and agree with you that it definitely gives you a better understanding of Asperger's syndrome. I haven't seen the other book yet, so I'll have to check that one out.JordanTeam V's Second Grade Fun
I haven't read either book, I'll have to look for them. The first year I taught, I had a little boy who later on was diagnosed with Aspergers. Some of my favorite memories of teaching involve this little boy. I felt so special when he came back to the school to visit me when he was in 9th grade. It was so interesting how he blossomed in our little class that year. :)KellyI'm Not Your Grandpa, I'm Your Teacher
Thanks for both recommendations. My nephew has autism and it is so important for society to have a better understanding of autism and Asperger's. TammyThe Resourceful Apple
I read that book about a year or so ago…I love Jodi Picoult! All of her books are great and page turners. :)Sarahteachingiscolorful.blogspot.com
What a wonderful and informative post Barb! Thank you for the book recommendations. Jodi Picoult is one of my favorite authors, but I haven't read this book. It's going to the top of my list! Thanks!SarahSarah's First Grade Snippets
Two more books for the Chapters wish list! sandirubberboots and elf shoes
Thanks for the book tips! The Boy Who Fell From Earth by Kathy Lette is another great 'fiction' story written about a family with a teenage son with Asperger's. It's funny but realistic {Kathy Lette's son has Asperger's)
What a wonderful resource to have! I wish I had had the book Understanding Sam a few years back when a class I had was having difficulty understanding a child with Asperger's in their class. Sounds like a must have book!LoriConversations in Literacy
Thanks for the recommendation. I'm going to check that out:)
This is so sweet that you want to help understand how common this has become! I plan on reading both! Thank you! Kirsten
good