Mindblind

Mindblind written by Jennifer Roy is a fascinating look into the mind of a young man with Asperger’s Syndrome.  The main character, Nathaniel, is inspired by Roy’s young son, Adam.  This book is clearly written by someone whose life has been affected by an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Nathaniel is a fourteen-year-old boy with mild Asperger’s Syndrome and not to mention, a genius.  Although Nathaniel has been reading since the age of three and relates his world to mathematical equations, he has difficulty socializing with other children his own age.  Not only is the reader lead through Nathaniel’s peer interactions, but the reader also gets a glimpse of what life is like for someone who is different.  This story was beautifully written and I couldn’t put it down.

More and more children are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and I believe it is important for other children to better understand these disorders.  We offered a book discussion for middle school students for the book Rules by Cynthia Lord and a number of students knew of someone with Asperger’s or were on the Autism Spectrum.  They had questions and were so interested to know more.  I think that children are brought up to not stare at people who are different and not ask questions, but sadly where do these children then learn about these differences.  I think books like Mindblind and Rules are important glimpses into the differences that make each individual unique.

Title: Mindblind
Author: Jennifer Roy
Publisher: Marshall Cavendish
Page Number: 249 pg.