A Regular Guy: Growing up with Autism

A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism is a memoir about life with an autistic son, Matthew, written from his mother s perspective. It answers the many questions that people have about autism through the story of Matthew s life spanning from babyhood to young adulthood. A Regular Guy illustrates the many ways in which family, friends and strangers are touched by Matthew s desperate desire to be a regular guy, and how his brutal honesty and social awkwardness bring out the best and worst in people in touching and humorous ways. In turn, A Regular Guy leads readers to love and accept Matthew, quirks and all, and inspires them to understand and tolerate the differences in others.

Customer Reviews:

great writing

By tom clements - December 11, 2008

Although the topic is autism, this book reads like a detective novel. The writing is so skillful, the narrative so well-composed that you'll find yourself captivated by the story line and fully immersed in the characters. Sentimental without being maudlin, Laura captures the heartache and challenges facing the family of an autistic child. And she does this with humor and psychological insight. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the family dynamics of autism and the stuggles of a young kid yearing to be a "regular guy". Beautiful.

A fascinating page-turner filled with humor and compassion

By Linda Goldfarb "Avid reader in N. California" - July 13, 2008

I loved this book. The story of the Shumaker family's journey with Matthew, their autistic son, was so fascinating and well written that I felt as if I was part of the Shumaker family as I read. I couldn't put it down and ended up finishing it in one sitting. Life with Matthew is not always easy, but Ms. Shumaker's descriptions kept a smile on my face as I traveled the journey of adapting to a full and rich life with a son who is very special. I highly recommend it.

Excellent book

By Deborah Thompson - September 17, 2009

Well written, witty account of the experience of living with Autism. Her experience closely parallels my own. Recommended especially for everyone who thinks Autism is easy to deal with, but also for anyone who has any interest in Autism.