Same But Different: Teen Life on the Autism Express: Teen Life on the Autism Express

Same But Different: Teen Life on the Autism Express: Teen Life on the Autism Express

Talk show host Holly Robinson Peete pairs with her twins in this narrative about the challenges and triumphs of being a teen who has autism and the effects on family, school, friends, and life. Being a teen is hard enough. But when you have autism--or when your sibling is struggling with the condition--life can be a topsy-turvy ride. What happens when you come face-to-face with dating, parties, sports, body changes, school, and kids who just don't get you? Where do you turn when your sibling with autism is the butt of jokes, the victim of misunderstood social cues, and the one everyone thinks is weird?Through alternating narratives based on their own lives, Ryan Elizabeth Peete and her twin brother, RJ, who has autism, bravely and honestly reveal what it means to be a teen living with the disorder. With insight and humor, Same But Different explores the many aspects of teen autism, while daring to address issues and feelings nobody talks about. This powerfully rendered, timely book is the only one of its kind. It paints an important story of hope for teens and families living with autism-and lets us see that everybody's unique rhythm is worth dancing to. Gr 6 Up—In this book that's told in alternating narratives and uses pseudonyms, two twins—one with autism (Charlie) and one without (Callie)—share stories of growing up. Courageously honest, their tales illustrate that autism is not an isolated condition but that it affects everyone in the family. The real heart of the work is in the narratives of Charlie and Callie; their authentic, open thoughts and discussions on autism will resonate with readers. Charlie's narrative reveals that he wants to be treated like any other "normal" kid, make friends, and have a social life. But his actions also show how autism impedes some of his decision-making, ability to read nonverbal clues, and tendency to act impulsively. He finds solace in video games, sports statistics, and solitude. Callie is an outgoing, popular athlete and a constant protector when it comes to Charlie. But watching over her brother is a challenge. Her sincerity about how she wishes Charlie was "normal" and how grating it has been to constantly look out for him shows how deeply autism has shaped their relationship. Bookending the two narratives is Peete's account of learning of her son's autism and his accomplishments in spite of the disorder. The last chapter is a plea for more research and advocacy on behalf of children with autism. Acknowledgements and a resource guide are also included. VERDICT A powerful and honest look at autism and a solid choice for most libraries that serve middle school students.—Carol Connor, Cincinnati Public Schools, OH Praise for My Brother Charlie : NAACP Image Award WinnerDolly Gray Award Winner" My Brother Charlie is a celebration of love and family, and the idea that the things that make us different can be the very same ones that bind us together."--Al Roker" My Brother Charlie brilliantly underscores a deep acceptance for those with autism–it is a remarkable and inviting book."--Suzanne and Bob Wright, co-founders, Autism Speaks" My Brother Charlie will stand the test of time in the hearts of its readers. Here is a story that rejoices in what it means to be special."--Earvin "Magic" Johnson"Families everywhere will be grateful to the Peetes for sharing their story in this beautiful and sensitive book."--Marian Wright Edelman, president, Children's Defense Fund"One's heart is always in the experiences had with a brother or sister. If you want to know about a person with autism, and the impact of autism on a family, this is the book to read."--NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino, father of a son with autism"As someone who has autism, I'm thankful for My Brother Charlie . This is a book every family and classroom should own, whether they've been touched with autism or not."–Jason McElwain, author of The Game of My Life: A True Story of Challenge, Triumph, and Growing Up Autistic RJ Peete wrote this book with his mother, Holly Robinson Peete, to help share awareness about autism with other children who have been touched by it in some way. RJ and his twin sister, Ryan, travel with their mom, speaking to children, families, and educators about their experiences growing up together. The Peetes live in Beverly Hills, California. Ryan Elizabeth Peete and Rodney Peete , teenage twins, wrote this book with their mother Holly Robinson Peete to help share awareness about autism with other children who have been touched by it in some way. Ryan and Rodney travel with their mom speaking to teens about their experiences growing up together. The Peetes live in Beverly Hills, California.