Jamie Lowell, a fifth grader at Willow River Elementary in Hudson, Wisc., and teacher Tara Tuchel, an autism specialist, are helping to demystify autism with their recent book My Best Friend Will.
The story is about 11-year-old Jamie's friendship with Will Roberts, who has autism. According to the Autism Society of America, autism is a brain disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills. Children and adults with autism may have difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication, social interactions, and leisure activities.
The 37-page hardcover book offers a clear explanation of autism and offers suggestions for communicating with autistic individuals like Will. Published by Autism Asperger Publishing in Kansas, the book also features black-and-white photos by Hudson photographers Jon and Kathy Berard.
