Over the past decade there has been an alarming rise in the rate of autism. While the severity of this disorder varies from child to child, many autistic children have lifelong difficulties connecting with others, using language, and learning. In this engaging and valuable memoir, Susan Senator describes her own journey raising a child with severe autism, along with two other typically developing boys. Unlike other books that focus on the search for miracle cures, Senator show us how she has been able to love and accept her autistic son as he is--and how she and her family have been able to find courage, contentment, and connection in the shadow of autism. Throughout this engaging narrative, Senator distills valuable insights and advice from her own experience, focusing on key topics such as: grieving and acceptance, finding the right school program, helping siblings with their struggles and concerns, having fun as a family, and keeping the marriage strong. "Families will gain much insight into how one family successfully coped with the challenges of raising an autistic child. Mothers, fathers, and siblings should read this honest account of family life with autism."--Temple Grandin, Ph.

D., author of "Thinking in Pictures and "Emergence: Labeled Autistic "Senator's story reminds us that while there are currently no medical treatments or cures for autism, we must maintain hope."--Karen London, cofounder, the National Alliance for Autism Research "Senator's common sense approach and courageous journey give readers a practical and entertaining experience."--Doug and Laurie Flutie, cofounders of the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, Inc.