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Andrew Give Us A Kiss

by Lawrence Gordon

108 pages; quality trade paperback (softcover); catalogue #07-0225; ISBN 1-4251-1815-1; US$13.47, C$15.49, EUR10.50, £6.96

This book is about the life so far of a severely mentally-handicapped young adult with autistic tendencies, as if he, the son, were able to write about his life.

About the Book

The book describes, in some detail, how the life of a mentally-handicapped person is totally dependent on the support of others be they carers or family. It moves through the young man's life from birth to the present day illustrating how he may have seen his own development and progress, were he able to communicate this information. The book also describes the emotional processes at work in Andrew's development from his perceived point of view and how he has managed to cope with life's traumas, or not, as the case may be.

The book is not without humour, and several "incidents" that have occurred with him as the main focus demonstrate how his personality has grown as he has aged.

The anguish he must feel as he becomes frustrated particularly in trying to communicate his needs to others, is all too evident. But he is forever grateful for those carers and family who make his life easier and more pleasant an experience.

The final chapter describes what his feelings are as his parents age and have increasing difficulty coping with Andrew's physical and emotional needs. The spectre of living away from his parent's home is traumatic for both Andrew and his parents. And there is no avoiding the ultimate wrench that gets closer.

The book hopefully encapsulates the experiences of many families who share similar lives, and seeks to alleviate, in print, that these families are not alone.

About the Author

The author is the father of the book's subject. A former schoolteacher in the English Midlands who, now retired, cares full time with his wife, for Andrew.