The Reason I Jump (extra book)

I always enjoy reading a second favorite RA book when the RA I am meeting with can’t make up their mind between two favorites.  On Friday I met with an RA who was so impressive in articulating her journey of life.  It made me easily get excited to read her second favorite book, Naoki Higashida’s The Reason I Jump.  The book tells the story of a 13 year old Japanese boy who has autism and communicates by using an alphabet grid that he has learned from a school teacher who worked hard to understand him.  Higashida’s story was written in 2006 and gained critical acclaim when English writer David Mitchell found the book investigating how he could better understand his own son’s life with autism.  The book is a series of questions that the author responds to, such as: Why don’t you do what your told right away, what’s the worst thing about having autism, why do you move your arms and legs about in that awkward way, and why do you jump?   It is the very first deep insight into the mind of an autistic person from their own words.  It is rather amazing that Higashida is able to provide his full account in basic observable ways.  Patience, love, and on-going listening is the answer.  I was so moved by the responses he provides in ways that gives one pause to realize how difficult it must be for anyone on the autism spectrum.  Higashida also includes a few short stories that he shares that further captures the manner in which we tend to ignore the needs of autistic people.  I have the utmost respect and admiration for anyone who works to understand others, before being understood.  This story demonstrates why this is so important.   Great read, quick read, but worth every minute!  Gain a perspective, pick the book up! Thanks J for the recommendation.  Your brother is lucky to have you!