This Life Has Chosen Me: New Book on Autism in South Africa
November 24, 2006 by Kristina Chew, PhD
Filed under Health
“People say autistic children don’t form relationships.They do, but their expression of that relationship is difficult.”
So says Kirsten Miller, who started to work with autistic children “by chance” ten years ago and whose new book, Children on the Bridge: A Story of Autism in South Africa” is described as combining “the mystery of the children, the gritty reality of their everyday life and her personal journey,” as reported in the November 24th Daily News of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Miller notes that “this line of work of chose her”,” which is a sentiment I more than share in (see Advocacy. Witness. Hope).
Miller now works as a private tutor to autistic children; Children on the Bridge will be published in April of 2007.
Miller notes that “this line of work of chose her”,
Yup. It’s hard for me to explain why I got interested in autism when people ask me now.
When it’s something as all-encompassing as this is for me, it’s just always been, you know?
The kids chose me. The kids choose me. Always have, always will.
And definitely for the better!
Hi Kristina,
We are parents of a two and half year old PDD boy Joseph. Your book “Children on the Bridge” was recommended to us by his private tutor Louise Adams. Louise does the SNAP program privately with him. We had Linda Thomson as his speec therapist and will be starting with Deborah Stodel this term. We have tried to find it for sale online but have had no luck. Please could you tell us where we could find a copy.
Thanks very much,
Robert Lancaster
You can find it on the Barnes and Noble website!
Dissappointing if a parent is looking for answers, since the catch phrase of the book “a story of autism in South Africa” is very misleading. This is a personal story of a teacher and her life. She tells how she worked with children on the spectrum and how it affected her. The book does not answer questions parents are looking for! A good read if you want a true life story, but bear this in mind.
I have to disagree with Michelle. How could you possible misinterperate “a story”.
After reading all the “clinical” books on our subject I found this book had a real human touch that really helped me understand myself and my relationship with the wonderful caregivers who have helped me.
I couldn’t recommend this book more – even if it only helps you understand what other parents are going through.