Jax & Me: Unexpected Lessons Learned by a Kid Who Didn’t Fit In

Jax & Me: Unexpected Lessons Learned by a Kid Who Didn’t Fit In

Have you ever felt different from everyone else? Jax & Me: Unexpected Lessons Learned by a Kid Who Didn’t Fit In is a short book with a story that goes deep. Within these pages, you peek into the secret world of PJ, a student who has a personal characteristic that sets him apart from most of his peers. Just when things are looking up for PJ, he makes a decision that puts him back on the outside. That’s when he learns an unexpected lesson that will change his life. This illustrated chapter book is for all kids everywhere who are set apart from their peers and feel like they don't fit in. It's about making important personal life choices, understanding our gifts and talents, and finding ourselves. PLUS! Jax & Me includes a Discussion Guide to start a conversation and provide a teaching opportunity for readers. Jax & Me is more than author Anthony Turtenwald's story about teenage troubles; the story shows how he found solutions and pathways to hope. Anyone trying to find their fit in challenging social circumstances will relate. Regardless of age or ability--whether a pre-teen, teen or adult--this story offers insight into options for dealing with difficult situations through a delightful and engaging story. FROM THE BOOK My name is Paul Jacob. When I was twelve years old, something happened to me that changed my life. I was a quiet kid, but not because I wanted to be quiet. I just couldn’t figure out how to talk to people, especially kids my own age. I sat in a corner not talking to anyone – because I couldn’t figure out how. I lived in three worlds: one at home, one at school, and one in my imagination. In those days, my imagination ruled everything, and it created a frightening world. The fear was a real feeling, not imaginary. I had a lot of stomach aches. Targeted for children ages 8-17 , this book is complete with a Discussion Guide to start a conversation in classrooms and small groups about the reality of school interactions among pre-teens and teens. It is the first of a series of books from Anthony Turtenwald who shares stories based on his personal journey and experiences. “The realistic struggle which many young people with autism encounter in understanding the perceptions, perspectives and motivations of others,” is shared in a reflective voice through Turtenwald’s stories of the social issues faced by many kids. Jax & Me tells a story that plays out every day in schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces, showing the realistic struggle that many neurodivergent individuals experience.