A heartfelt story which doubles as a powerful teaching tool…this mother and her son lead by example.

Benjamin Breaking Barriers is a compelling read, coming at a time when 1 in every 88 children is being diagnosed with autism. This story appeals to heart and mind alike, taking the reader through the fascinating process of autism therapy while also revealing the psyche and philosophies of Benjamin’s mother. A valuable resource for anyone involved in working with an autistic individual; parents and therapists alike will find inspiration in the creative ideas put forth by the author.

Synopsis: Benjamin is diagnosed with autism at the age of two, and his symptoms fit textbook descriptions. He is completely nonverbal and has withdrawn from the world; he has disappeared into the devastating isolation of autism and is taken over by the strange, repetitive behaviors that accompany the condition. Through the loving and determined intervention of his mother, and with the help of a caring community of family members, friends, therapists, and consultants, Benjamin eventually develops speech and begins to know the joys of interacting with the people and the environment around him. He is revealed to have an essentially sunny and loving nature, although the problems caused by his autism are often heart wrenching and can subvert his personality.

Over the course of years, virtually all of Benjamin’s waking hours are spent in therapeutic activity and engagement; he is continually guided by the creativity and energy of his mother. She refuses to lower her standards and “be reasonable.” Instead, she continually reaches for the stars in hopes that Benjamin will one day move beyond his autism and lead a life of normalcy. Meanwhile, she struggles to maintain her own sense of self, burning the midnight oil in pursuit of her professional life as a musician and a writer. The deep spiritual relationship that exists between mother and son allows them to grow into a team; together, they achieve goals that few would have dreamed possible.

Now it is 2013, the present. Benjamin is in high school and, with the aid of his mother, has embarked on the path of becoming a compelling public speaker. He has already moved audiences to both laughter and tears with his forty-five-minute presentation on autism titled Breaking Through Barriers and is making an impact on his peers and the larger community, encouraging people in all walks of life to meet their own challenges. He has a website, a blog, and a Facebook page, and is being recognized as an exceptional role model.

Benjamin’s life story is inseparable from the storyline of his mother’s dedication to helping him, and the two intertwined histories provide an inspiring narrative—the underlying message is one of hope and perseverance. The author recognizes that the storm clouds of life can have a silver lining and that unexpected gifts may be reaped from this recognition. She finds ways to meet the daily challenges that arise from her son’s autism and detects the hand of destiny in the process. Thus, the story of Benjamin is punctuated by moments of elation and celebration that will uplift the reader’s spirit.

Google Benjamin Breaking Barriers to locate our website, blog, YouTube clip, and Facebook page.

Targeted Age Group:: age 13 and up

What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
Throughout the years, people have commented on the special bond they recognize between my son (Benjamin) and me. They have asked me to share stories about parenting, particularly in regards to Benjamin’s autism, but also in a more general sense. I kept getting feedback that my creative ideas and my spiritually-aware approach were inspiring and helpful, so I eventually decided to tell the full story in this book.

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