Journeys of Gold is a positive, uplifting book about raising a child on the Autism Spectrum. Much of the information available on ASD, or in our case, Asperger's Syndrome, is quite overwhelming as it is normally read at a time when you are facing the thought of your child being 'different' or going through the draining diagnostic process. Journeys of Gold is two stories in one – we both have very different experiences of Asperger's Syndrome yet have both discovered that there is joy to be found in having a child on the Autism Spectrum. This book is one that can be read by parents, teachers, support workers, chaplains, families, grandparents and child care workers and it gives an insight into what it means to parent a child on the Autism Spectrum, as well as offers strategies that can be used after diagnosis (especially when you are faced with long waiting lists to access some services). It looks at important things like starting kindergarten, family relationships, communication, self care and transitioning to school. Our book is full of hope, practical ideas, shares that joy can be found in the little things and that life is not over once a child receives a diagnosis – it is different. Journeys of Gold is a book I could honestly not put down! Sharing their independent journeys of raising young sons diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, Kate and Jodie share their raw emotions, challenges and joys in the challenges associated with loving and raising a child that does not fit the stereotyped mould. I laughed, and at times cried hard as the journey unfolded of these two families. Permeating through every page however, is a message of hope, Faith in God and unquestionable love and appreciation for these precious children. For any parent that is struggling or has ever struggled with a child on the Autism Spectrum, this book will change your life! As an educator who often works with children with Asperger's in my classes, this book provided me with key insights as to what life for them and their family is like. I will be recommending this book to parents and educators alike. It is brilliant!
