Press reviews for: Laughter and Tears
Journal of Educational Psychology in Practice
This book describes the life of the author's son, Mark, a young man with autism, from under one year of age to adulthood... the text is richly referenced for such an account. However, this does not make it less readable, as [the author] has the gift of explaining complex information simply and without jargon, with an emphasis on practical application. There are many publications written by the parents of children with autism, each telling a very individual story. This one is recommended for its readable style, and educational psychologists, teachers and parents are all likely to learn not only a little more about the emotional impact of parenting a child with autism, but also through the practical problem-solving efforts of the author when faced with difficult situations and the wide range of research described. A group for whom this book might be particularly helpful could be the parents of children with autism who are feeling isolated and unique in their experiences.
Community Care
Ann Hewetson (a sometime research scientist and teacher as well as dedicated mother) combines long experience, acute observation and academic study in this profound and moving account of her son Mark's transition from "early infantile autism" to a form of Asperger's syndrome in adulthood…Hewetson writes with wisdom gained from experience on the danger for parents of "chasing rainbows down endless cul-de-sacs". She warns against implausible theories (such as the alleged MMR vaccine-autism limk) and questionable treatments, noting how these "slow down progress, divert time and resources from solid, scientifically structured, research" as well as imposing "unnecessary burdens on both families and clinicians". Her concluding appreciation of Mark's distinctively autistic qualities of honesty, simplicity and integrity will strike a chord with parents and professionals alike.