In the past 10 years of walking down this road we call autism, I’ve read, and I’ve researched, and I’ve put into practice more than my fair share and then some. When it comes to autism, most of the reading/research/etc. has been for learning purposes and figuring out what our next step was going to be or to help other families.

However, there have been a few gems along the way. A few books I have treated myself to out of curiosity, need of some lighter reading, and need of inspiration really. When you’re walking down this road and trying to impact/improve it at the same time, it’s important to make sure you also do things, live, and read things that lift you up and inspire you. It’s too easy to fall into the downward spiral of all things way too serious otherwise.

So today I want to share a few of the gems I’ve picked up along the way. These books were bought by me, I have no endorsements coming my way. Really the only reason I’m doing this is so that if you do choose to seek them out and read them, they can inspire you as well. How’s that for full disclosure. (Okay, had to giggle there, but still be within the FTC rules.)

So here it goes……..

Souls: Beneath and Beyond Autism – Balsamo/Rosenbloom

Okay ladies, I’m going to give you the warning now. Get out your tissues. This is a BEAUTIFUL book with amazing photography and it was the first book that got me to change my first position on autism (a post for another day). Second warning is this, your husband may or may not be able to look at this book with you. It’s okay, don’t worry about it. Especially if you’ve only had the diagnosis a short while. We as women and moms of these beautiful children would do well to remember that men/fathers process this diagnosis different. It’s okay, just differently. You will enjoy this book enough for the both of you, I did.

Special Kids Need Special Parents: A Resource for Parent of Children with Special Needs – Judith Loseff Lavin

It’s very easy in the beginning of this journey (and especially for us because we were oversees and didn’t know anyone else going through it at the time), to feel alone. Before, I had always thought it sick and twisted to be glad someone else had the same problems/issues/challenges you did. But when I was that alone on the road, this book, reading someone else making the best of the road they were on, saved my sanity. ‘Nuff said.

Views from our Shoes: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs – Edited by Donald Myer

I picked up this book about a year or two after we’d received Justin’s diagnosis. There is just something about the way children see the world. Something about the way they view their siblings and their lot in life and the level of compassion they show that you’d love to teach some adults, that instantly lifts the spirit and makes it soar. I highly recommend this book. You’ll just might gain some perspective that surprises you after reading it.

Autism and the God Connection – William Stillman

I got this book six years after we’d received the diagnosis. I already had certain stirrings spiritually in what I knew to be true and what I knew to be completely false regarding spirituality, religion, and what I was watching fall by the wayside from my religious “teachings” in church. The years that I was able to go that is. Let’s just say this book took what was a spark inside of me and turned it to a raging/burning fire to spread the truth regarding autism, god, spirituality, angels, and the whole kit and caboodle. I absolutely, with all of my heart, love and am so grateful to Mr. Stillman for writing this book!

Okay, I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t give you at least one informational book (sorry, I’m a knowledge junkie). But for this, I’m giving you one that launched today. I am part of the launch (I donated a bonus for those who order it today), but I receive NO profit from the book or this recommendation, got it? Other than telling you this is the book I’ve been waiting over 10 years to see come out. I’ve cited Dr. Wakefield when working with families, and his new book Callous Disregard is pulling back the veil in a way that is LONG overdue. You can go ahead and check it out (plus sign up to receive free excerpts from the book as well) here.

Sorry, I know this is long winded, but I had to share. While going through our books, I looked and realized I’d been remiss by not telling you about them sooner. But hey, better late than never right? *wink*