Now to Him

Now To Him is the heart-felt account of one faith-filled mother's love for her son. The book inspires the reader to a closer walk with the One who is able to keep us all from falling. It makes us look at our own circumstances with gratitude and gives a deeper perspective of what God is trying to accomplish in our daily struggling and stumbling. This is a book of hope, commitment and great, great love. By reading this, you will be encouraged and challenged to allow God to do his perfect work in you.

This is terrific. I sincerely hope it gets published. Powerful story, I think it would have been a big journey to write. You have a wonderfully warm, compassionate tone and a kind of rhythm in your narrative. I like the way you make the reader slow down to catch a deeper thought. Normally I shy away from books that seem sadder in the story line, (I like to "escape" when reading!) but you managed to fill it with hope and joy in sharing your faith. I loved the attention to little details - and chapter 7 especially - the shelving of personal dreams and the desire to accept and love the little boy God has given, at whatever stage he is at, and to try very hard to notice and appreciate the little things. I am a mother and a therapist too, and I found this book very touching. Beautifully done. Makes you want to be a more compassionate and understanding person. I've given it 6 stars and it's going straight to the bookshelf for a nice long stay.
Regards, Sophy.

Highly rated.

TITLE - Perfect
COVER - Beautiful
PITCH - Well written

You write with such honesty and compassion.
Your courage to write and share your work is commmendable.

I work for an agency who provide support/therapy for children with special needs.
You story is an inspiration on how faith can help families faced with autistic children.

You handle this subject with such grace and strength.
Your writing style is perfect to the content of your work.
And your ablitiy to evoke emotion speaks well of your writing talent.

Bless you for your bravery and commitment to write this. Bravo!
Blessings - Linda

Now to Him is written with such skill that you can feel the love coming off the pages. While this book could have been written in novel form, I think it reads a lot better as a collection of short stories centered on an autistic child growing up. There are moments in Now to Him that are so powerful, I think they might get lost within a novel. But this way the reader is able to get the setup, the main part of the short story, an emotional or teaching moment, and then the chapter’s conclusion within a few minutes. The stories are all linked of course, so there is no disconnect. Pacing is perfect, and I can see a lot of “just one more chapter before bed” moments until it’s very late into the night.

Author Faith Rose writes with authority and believability. It’s clear that she really went through these events, and readers will feel humbled to share her joys and pain.

There is also a religious theme to the book, but this is not over the top to the point that those who don’t believe will be turned away. Instead it shows the good that people of faith do, a subtle but important distinction from books that simply say that God is great. I would call Now to Him more inspirational than religious.

I was surprised to find such a gem so far outside what I normally read. A lot of that is attributable to the skill of the author, but also to the fine way the book is configured. Now to Him would be a success in both the Christian and mainstream markets once published.

John Breeden II
Old Number Seven

Somehow what I've already written got lost, so I'll start over again.

I had planned to read one chapter of your book and then move on to other things I need to do today. But I couldn't stop until I finished chapter 9. Your writing style makes it so easy to stay with the content, and I do love the way you have presented your son's reality. In the simple presentation of your stories you have made clear the deep emotion of your life with your boy's situation and the depth of support you have found in your Christianity, all the while making the reader familiar with the symptomatology of the Asperger's spectrum.

I wish the book would be read by a wide audience, including those who are not experiencing this syndrome. Wouldn't it be wonderful if that "normal" family in the restaurant had an understanding of what you were going through? How much more you might have enjoyed your night out. The children might even have been able to provide some creative help. (Maybe this is your next book -- what you have observed helpful children doing for your boy.)

And speaking of your boy. I'm sorry to disagree with a couple of your kind commenters, but I loved your use of "my boy." The very expression conveys so much -- the total acceptance and love. In the same way, I liked "my boy's father."

But back to who might read it. Probably the religious component would keep some readers away, but I think it would be a wonderful book for a church book club to study. Also, If I were still teaching, I'd like to recommend it to my classes. It goes so far beyond textbooks in conveying the reality of the Asperger's syndrome.

I didn't look to see what the rank of this book is, but one way or another I hope someone will pick it up. Maybe it's a natural for Zondervons.

I've got to take a careful look at my bookshelf to see who I'm willing to take off my shelf in order to put yours on it. Since I've been on this site (not very long, actually) I've been determined that only books I deeply respect and admire will go on my shelf. Yours belongs there.

Thanks for a meaningful -- even blessed -- afternoon

Mrs. Job (Mona)

Beautiful, heartfelt, touching writing. You invite your readers into your family and there we find your love through and to God. I don't know much about Autism, but you have educated me and given me an understanding of the condition and the faith that carries a family through it. I have a friend whose son is Autistic. I hope you get published soon so I can give her a copy of your book. Six stars! :)


Blessings,
Lyn Ventura
With All My Mind

Beautifully told, effecting account of raising a child with this condition. I'm only on chapter two, but I feel totally involved in the story, and the repeated, sad episodes (the children running away) that strike at the heart of any parent with a child who is 'different.' I hope this does well, and will give you some stars for now. Reading on.

Such an inspirational story. I can relate much of this to my own life since my little brother has the same condition. My family struggled with similar worries and concerns especially my dear mother. It is good to know we are not alone in this fight. Your story actually made me cry for the passion and love you pour out with your words. In it I see my life and find renewed hope. I could not find any grammar mistakes probably because I was so immersed in the story. So glad I found this book and best of luck getting it published. High stars and an instant success.

Now to Him
Faith, I have come back to review a few more chapters, hoping that I might be of 'help' and instead of giving I received so much.
Chapter 2
Again it struck me how useful your story is to parents who are going through similar experiences; the way you impart the information you have received from the 'strategy books' you have read. For example, allowing your boy to pack most of his backpack for the Martial Arts event. The language you use is also particularly powerful, drawing the reader in and making them understand how desperate the situation is for your boy at times - e.g. My poor boy appeared as if he wanted to crawl out of his own skin, as if every nerve in his body became exposed'. As I continued to read I questioned myself and looked back to see if there were times when I had looked at a 'misbehaving' child - hoping that I would never be part of a crowd that would turn around and stare disapprovingly or say 'Shhh.'
As you describe looking through the glass to see your daughter, I was able to picture the scene and there is a sense of such despair as you state; 'I heard no music, no cheers from the audience, only the repetition of "dried apricots" .'
What I had not expected was to receive a spiritual truth that spoke directly into my life as you take the reader on to a different level by 'challenging my self-reliance'. I took a moment and thought - how often have I planned and prepared, working hard to achieve a goal and almost taking God out of the equation?
Chapter 3
A minor point I would like to mention is that I had to reread a phrase as it did not make sense; 'what mattered-what really mattered-was that ..' then I realised that if I changed the hypen to a dash the phrase made sense. It is a minor point, but when you go through the editing it will be easy to rectify.
Faith, you had me in tears at the end of the chapter as you describe the relationship your boy had with the puppy who would be 'Always, Running towards him, not away', as the children had done earlier on in the chapter.
Chapter 4
The story of the floaties is so simple, sweet and uplifting - and there is such a sense of joy and hope.
'My boy shined.
and my heart smiled at his hidden treasure,
surely designed by the One who holds a special place,
a special purpose
just for him.'
Inspirational, thought-provoking and written with such clarity of heart and spirit.
I shall continue to read the rest of the chapters posted.
Maria

Faith,
What a fabulously positive and honest record of what it's really like to care for someone with autism. I think you have struck just the right tone with your narrative and it reads very well. Engaging and powerful, I felt for you every step of the way, particularly with the devastating mix-up over dried apricots instead of apples.
Having looked after several children with autism (being a foster carer) I felt as if I was there with you in that hall, wanting so much just to watch your daughter, something most people take for granted. It seems such a simple thing but even after all that planning, you still ended up watching her through the glass. I felt your frustration and also your love and devotion to your boy.
I think your book gives real insight into the condition because you express your emotions so honestly and clearly.
I hope it does well - such a positive thing to do. Shelved and lots of stars.
Melissa
Lessons in the Dark

Faith,
Now to Him is aptly titled. Every single chapter I read brought tears to my eyes and brought my heart back to where it belonged – surrendered and humbled before Him who is worthy to receive all our honor, praise, and glory. Now to Him is an example of how we are to live, totally dependant during the good and the bad, during the weariness and the strength.

Even reading your book the second time around was just as new and encouraging as the first time. As long as there are troubles and trials and little boys and girls who wear out their parents, this book’s message will always be relevant and up-lifting.
I had only one suggestion for chapter eight. I wonder if you need to repeat ‘And lived in this sentence:
And lived – and lived –well beyond what anyone had imagined. The sentence before it ends with, “she was a child who lived,” which is kind of like a repeat anyway.

I’m praying that you and your boy’s story is published soon. I will no doubt be an encouragement to thousands of people.

Dianna Lanser
Nothing But The Blood

@Faith, CLF review

The other day when I called up a few chapters they disappeared before I could read them. don't have internet where I stay, so I couldn't get them back.

Last night I read chapters 2 and 3. Will hopefully finish the rest in the next few days. Then I will post another comment.
Really enjoying the read. The writing is very smooth and flows very well. Having had only a little personal experience with people who have autism, and that not in a very personal way, it is hard to understand what they and the people who love and take care of them have to endure. Your book is opening my eyes to this. For this, I am greatly appreciative and hope to share with you and others in the burden of coping with this struggle. If not in body, yet in spirit always.

Offered in the Love of Christ,
Harold :d:d:d

Hi Faith, my spelling goes hay-wire when I am "exhausted".
love Brigitte

Dear Faith, I drifted through your book in awe of the strength of your belief. Your prose is light carrying the reader with you in your thoughts. There is a quality about it, we rarely find. You are not afraid to be "human" when angry, exorsted but never long before you find your strength again.
Your last two chapters kept telling me to pour my soul out like you. There is nothing wrong with it, kept going through my head. This is how you can do it.
I absolutely love the ending "some day..." Yes, I know, the day will come when all will be well.
I needed to read your book today. Thanks for writing it and all my love to you all.
Brigitte

Dear Faith, I drifted through your book in awe of the strength of your belief. Your prose is light carrying the reader with you in your thoughts. There is a quality about it, we rarely find. You are not afraid to be "human" when angry, exorsted but never long before you find your strength again.
Your last two chapters kept telling me to pour my soul out like you. There is nothing wrong with it, kept going through my head. This is how you can do it.
I absolutely love the ending "some day..." Yes, I know, the day will come when all will be well.
I needed to read your book today. Thanks for writing it and all my love to you all.
Brigitte

@Faith,

I have just started reading your story, in only the second chapter. It is so much of a blessing that, like Patti, you have made the great act of Love by laying down your life for us to share in. It is a great testimony of faith to even try to do such a thing. Your story has reminded me of a testimony that a man who was teaching a Bible study told. I would like to share it with you and everyone to the best of my memory.

He told us about his son who was mentally challenged from birth. (I don't know if it was autism or not.)
After many trips to doctors and specialists, he had grown tired of hearing how his son would never be able to learn to read or much of anything else concerning the matters of ever being able to be educated to the point of where he could actually function in a normal society. He told the group that he yelled at the doctors at one hospital after they had expressed their doubts, 'YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOUR TALKING ABOUT! MY GOD WOULD NEVER ALLOW THIS! NOT THE GOD I SERVE! NEVER!!!' and stormed out of the room heading towards the elevator.
As he was getting on the elevator, a woman doctor, who was in the room with him, came chasing after him and got in with him. He said that he started to yell at her the same thing, that he didn't want to hear that nonsense anymore. The Dr. stopped him in mid-sentence and said, 'Sir, you don't understand. I do not believe what they are saying either. You see, I was diagnosed similar to your son when I was a child. My parents would not accept it either and kept at trying to get me to learn. As you can see, I beat the odds. This is why I became a doctor in this field, to help those who others say there is no help for. I want to work with your son, because I believe that he will be able to learn to read.'
The man then said that a few weeks after the woman started working with him, his son came into the living room carrying a book and said, 'Daddy look, I can read.' and began reading from the book he had brought.
What book was he reading from? The Bible.

Miracles still do occur everyday. This one was the miracle of faith and the right Good Samaritan being in the right place.

Offered in the Love of Christ,
Harold

Faith,

Strong voice in these chapters! I'm struck by the humanity and compassion you write regarding your son. It's an intimate look from a mother's eye. It's heartbreaking to read the difficulties that your son and you face in trying to make friends that are genuine and longlasting. So glad you found a friend in the Yellow Dog!

Sam Cronin

Faith,

Just finished chapter 1 of Now to Him. It's a stunning first glimpse into Asperger's Syndrome from a mother's perspective. I currently work as a paraprofessional in a school district of a city, and have had some experience working with children in the Autism Spectrum. They are precious, aren't they? Beautiful children. Begging for love. Your first chapter is honest and poignant. I'm excited to read more!

Just completed "Now To Him" by Faith Rose. Very good perspective and surely a hard subject for her to write about. I have a cousin who does not bring his son around very often because of the same problem. He is a wonderful dad and in fact has taken a path of humor rather than despair at dealing with his son's condition. Let me explain because my cousin is an avid fisherman and comes to the lake where I live regularly but cannot bring his son because it is somewhat dangerous to have the young boy out in the boat when he decides not to mind. I am sure Faith knows how this plays out first hand. But rather than be annoyed or show annoyance we have come to enjoy many of these episodes and somehow it helps because taking it all with a grain of salt eases the situation for everyone concerned.

The book touches chords in my heart because it does hit so close to home. Thank You faith for addressing it in your book.

Regards,
Walt

Finished your story. Chapter nine made me cry a little....

I also have a child who is on the autism spectrum. The content of your book was very inspiring! I too believe in the hope that you wrote about in your book!

Faith,
"Someday" is the most hopeful concept for all of us raising children on the autism spectrum. This is a true look into your heart and soul as you have done a great job of conveying your circumstances. I love your direct impact of "my deepest tears". What a lovely boy you have shared with all of us in your story. Thank you for your honesty and experiences for the rest of us to learn from. I too write of my autistic daughter in a series of short stories,some sad and some so very humorous and like you hold desperately to Gods hand. I would love your thoughts on"Agent H", hope for Hadley,
Mary Ann

Hi Faith Rose--I've read two more chapters (4 & 5) and want to just go ahead and read them all, but I've got to do chores. Your writing is consistently very good; I haven't seen a thing to suggest.

My vote on "my boy": While I would like to know him by name, I think "my boy" universalizes your experience. I do wonder if it would work to alternate with "my son" and "our son" and "my child" (for the sake of those with daughters with the same challenges).

Faith,

I had every intention of giving a separate comment for each beautiful chapter in your book, but tonight I couldn’t stop myself and read three chapters - three through five.

Although I have read these before, I still found a fresh appeal and discovery in each one. Your writing has a way of going deep down to my soul and evoking emotion in this mother’s heart.

There are only a few books that I own where I go back time and time again to seek encouragement. One of course, is the Bible, the other is Sara Young’s, Dear Jesus, while another is our friend Patti Tingen’s, He Was Never A Cat.

We all have books that we go to like a special friend, where we can find comfort in the familiar, truth in the honesty, and inspiration in the goodness. Your’s is one of those.

Faith, I could so relate to your disdain for shopping I loved this nice little simile: “I like to pass in and out of the store quickly, getting it over with like a rapid gulp of bad-tasting medicine.” If only there were a better way!

Dianna Lanser
Nothing But The Blood

I wrote my first (and embarrassingly short) review a very long time ago. I'm here again to do my CLF review, and find I have nothing at all to say. I think you hit all the right notes with this story.

At the beginning, you describe waiting for your second child exactly as I experienced it. Even your early observations of your boy are familiar to me; we learned that the second child is sometimes nothing like the first. Even your concerns about watching a performance, or waiting for a table in a restaurant are familiar--my son was big and boisterous and tended to attract attention. I think this is what really connects me to your story, the fact that as a mother, you're so incredibly focused on your children and helping them grow into themselves.

My most vivid memory of the mothers of HFA children is this: I used to give out student schedules on registration day at the high school my children attended. We asked parents to stay home the day of this activity, but of course many of them came anyway. Kids would approach, and I'd ask them for their last name. High school kids are nearly 100% able to tell the nice volunteer lady their last name. Sometimes they whisper, and I'd cheerfully tell them I was an old woman and they needed to speak up. I can't tell you how many parents of Gen Ed kids robbed their children of dignity in this simple exchange. They'd roll their eyes, and loudly say their last name. They'd actually shove their children aside to tell me the last name. But not the moms of the Aspie kids. They hung back, nodding and smiling at their son or daughter, as the child told me his first name, shook my hand, and then managed to offer a last name. Those parents were like angels, watching over their children but letting their children call the shots. You're a special breed, Faith Rose.

Faith, CLF Review Chapter two - Who Is Able

I am in tears… again. “All of my efforts, my planning, my preparation, my strategies, and my answers followed that heavy load straight to the ground… challenging my self-reliance, and maybe even chipping away at my old friend, Pride.”

Was it coincidence that I read this tonight? I don’t think so. In everything that I have done pertaining to my book, I have tried to give over to God. However, there are times when I am weak and fall back into the old habit of self-reliance. Today was one of those days. It was filled will soccer games, play-dates, home projects, school projects. Through it all, in the back of my head was this nagging feeling that while I’m spending time with my family, my book’s ranking on Authonomy may be paying a price (as if I have had anything to do with it‘s position)

“God, strip me of my pride. Help my hope, my trust, and my significance to be found in you and in you alone.”

What is the ministry potential of your book? Absolutely, undeniably one hundred percent effective.

Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability, and thank you for ministering to me tonight!

Dianna Lanser
Nothing But The Blood

Hi, Faith. You already know that I absolutely love your book and that it's going up on my bookshelf. May I make a couple of suggestions (not as a professional writer, but as a reader). Personally, these couple of things would put the book right over the top for this reader: 1. Give the stories a little more ending, i.e. in chapter two - go on to describe what happened to your daughter and her performance and in chapter three - go on to tell what happened with the puppy as the puppy grew up. 2. I hope I'm not interfering with something you have in mind here, but is there a reason that you don't call your son and daughter your son and daughter? "my boy" and "my girl" are okay occasionally, but I'd like to hear you use the possessive, "my son" "my daughter" and I'd even more like to hear you use their names (even ficticious ones if needed) a lot more. Note: I don't usually make suggestions, but your book is so near perfect that I think these couple of things would make it perfect. Again, it's going on my bookshelf! Blessings, Pat

Hey. Is this your real story or one you wrote? I also have Asperger's and know what the kid goes through with being excluded and not fitting it no matter what you do, no matter who ti is or where you are. I htink you probably could have put in more dialogue if it's fiction. If not this is fine.

oh my, Faith Rose, if only I had had a copy of your book when I was teaching and the lesson was on autism! Your book would have been REQUIRED reading for my students! It is so personal, so real, touching, and it shows both the traits of child with asperger's as well as many of the authentic emotions experienced by the parents. It brings home the reality of a child with autism and my students would have benefitted from reading your book far more than they did from the cold, distant descriptions provided by the textbook. A beautiful, beautiful story - it will go on my bookshelf in the next few days (and, if published, into my library). Blessings, Pat

This is one of the most captivating accounts I have come across about the reality of living with an autistic child. It is real, in its honest exploration of the heartache and struggles, and of where God is in all of that. And it is delightful in its portrayal of the delights and joys of getting to know a beautiful individual. Finally, it is a book that is full of hope. In an amazingly down to earth way, this book mirrors something of the underlying message of the gospel - that we are, each one of us, individuals created in the image of God, loved by him, and with a special purpose within his overall purposes; that we live in a world that is both beautiful and good, and at the same time, marred; and that we feel the consequences of that in the pain, heartache, suffering and longings that we all experience; but that those sufferings are not the final word - that God has something much greater in store for us. Well done and thank you for expressing all that in such a wonderful way.

I like your use of the Ephesians 3 verse. That fits in well. My two main criticisms are that the first chapter doesn't do justice to the rest of the book and runs the risk of losing your readers; and that I would have loved to have seen more.

The first chapter is very nicely written and engaging, but I'm afraid it didn't grab me as a first chapter - the first two paragraphs weren't inspiring enough - I want, and I suspect most readers would want, something really punchy to keep reading. the last 3 paragraphs in this chapter achieve that brilliantly - now I start to get a feel for the book and this would inspire me to continue; your acknowledgement that the Dr was confirming your fears, that you knew what was coming, but also the recognition that you didn't know what was coming, the darkness of it all, God's mercy - I'm engaged.

I wonder whether you could use something from his first 5 years to engage the reader and draw us in? Some incident that is dramatic/amusing/different? Something to show your turmoil of emotions before you know the answer, that you could contrast with those initial moments? Something that really affirms your son, his individual character/personality, while at the same time giving some hint of the difficulties? Or perhaps go back a bit, draw in the reader with your daughter, then develop the pregnancy, not only with your hopes and expectations, but hers as well; the contrast between your two children could highlight the reality of your emotions, and I would think, could draw your daughter too into the story right from the start - I suspect she is a huge part of your son's life and vice versa - it would be nice to see this from the start.

I loved chapter 2 - that captured everything. The reality of the rigid thinking of a child with aspergers; the dynamics of your family; your own bruised emotions...

Chapter 3 - another delightful chapter. This may just be me, and I'm not sure where it sits grammatically, but I much prefer the use of 'who' to 'that' when talking about people (or, as the case may be, animal friends); I also wonder whether semicolons rather than commas would work better at the end of each line: 'a friend who would be there, no matter what; a friend who would accept him, in spite of himself; a friend who would run toward him, not away.' Similarly, in the next paragraph, I would use 'who'. A couple of paragraphs later, I would also use a semicolon after 'temperament and therapy'.

Chapter 4 - more and more delightful. I love the insight into your son's creativity/imagination with the floaties. It made me think of Jesus' assertion that unless we become like little children we will never enter (see?) the kingdom of heaven. Young children can and do see things that we adults fail to see; and this may be particularly true for children with autistic traits. Could it be that they are seeing some things of God's kingdom that are hidden to us?

Chapter 6 - the God who must've...?

Chapter 7 - what a beautiful picture of a father's love

Chapter 8 - another wonderful chapter, that captures so amazingly the reality of God's grace within our suffering, hurting lives.

I'm quite happy with your use of 'my boy'. I wonder whether 'his daddy' might flow a bit better than 'my boy's daddy', particularly when used in a sentence where you already talk about your boy?

Dear Faith:

I came into this first of nine CLF reviews with the purpose of really blessing you. Instead, as I finished up reading through chapter one, it was me who was utterly moved and encouraged.

At the end of chapter one you wrote:
“I knew that my boy would not have an easy path. But what I did not know…” This next part, is what brought me to tears - tears of gratitude as I thought about all the brokenness that has been mended or is hoped to be mended. It is the grace that you have experienced, that I have experienced, that everyone who’s ever put their hope in God’s unfailing love has experienced.

Then you wrote, “…But what I did not know was the depth of darkness that would touch my soul, Nor the mercy of God that was deeper still, Nor the whole new way I would cling to hope…Hope for my boy.”

Hope is so key for all of us. I think is was my pastor who said it, but he may have heard from someone else. He said, “Hope is pain deferred.” Hope is where we go to learn to trust God. And that’s what you and your boy show us - how to hope and how to trust - even when we can‘t see the good in our circumstances.

Faith, your writing is so in-touch and honest with what you were feeling before and after the birth of your boy. Carefully chosen words allow your readers to anticipate with you, to wonder with you, to grieve with you and then to hope… Thanks for sharing your story. I’m looking forward to tomorrow and chapter two!

Dianna

You write well, without pity, yet the reader feels the pain of such a discovery of her child. I am glad to have discovered your book and look forward on reading more.
Christine C. May

Faith,
6 stars from me.
Brigitte

Hi Faith, Read 3 painful chapters reminding me of much what happened and still does to my husband who is bi-polar. Your family is accepted on a polite level but no more. Differences are unpredictable and better avoided. Writing your book will help to break down the barriers. Your style of writing is perfect for the subject; sympathec but factual:
Love
Brigitte

Faith, What a beautifully written memoir. Written from the very depths of your heart. I am so affected by this that I don't know quite what to say. I love the entire thing, but I found myself reacting most strongly to the chapter when you talked about your husband and his past memories of athletics and all the emotions coursing through him. The description of your son so joyfully welcoming his father home. Oh my goodness, what memories that brought back to me. My brother's son has Down's Syndrome and every word of that chapter matches so closely with the story of my brother Bill and his son Caleb. I can't even begin to tell you, but suffice it to say I have a deeply emotional reaction to your words.

I also loved the chapter in which you talked about the song or hymn rather, "This is my Father's World." I love that song! Every chapter you wrote was incredibly beautiful in each thought you expressed, but this is another that stood out for me, with the story of your grandmother and your own mother.

You clearly are a gifted writer, and while I think many people could write a book on this subject, it would be very difficult to match the level of perception you bring to the story. And from a Christian standpoint, it is a beautiful testimony of God's love. Absolutely beautiful.

This is an important book. It will bring encouragement and help in healing. It has done so for me this night. I can tell you that.

God Bless You, heart and soul,

julie

Now to Him.

I like the way it is written like annecdotes. Each a separate chapter/episode.
The book is very sad. My heart really goes out to the mother.
I was happy to learn about the puppy, and how "her boy" responded.


I agree with some of the others. The "my boy" designation really does work. Anonymous, I think he is "my boy" for all of us.


Chapter 6 was inspiring. God with us" applies to us all.
Chapter 7 with the dad was emotionally sympathetic to me.

Ending with the hope of "someday" was very poignant.

An absolutely emotional grabber.
My daughter has an autistic child. Unfortuneately she lives quite a ways away. This is a very beautiful story.
6 stars and much praise, Faith.
God Bless you.

Faith Rose,
I have read through chapter 4 of your book and have enjoyed it, if that is even the word. I love the part about the yellow puppy, and how God arranged for your family to have the perfect companion for your sweet little boy. I love the recollection about the dried apricots.
It's so hard to be a mother. People don't realize how much sacrifice there is involved...how you can literally lose yourself to the task. I hope you get a little "me" time. so you can refresh your spirit and have more to give to your children.
I know one thing. I know you are a good mother who has tried your best to be everything your children need. I also know that I'm one of your admirers now, after reading your story.
So sorry people don't understand and judge you and your child, but I think you'll be okay. I think you've learned, not only to deal with it, but to thrive in spite of it! God bless you and your lovely family! Highly starred and watchlisted!
Georgia
The Woman From E.A.R.L.

I like the way Faith sets up the little stories in this book. Her writing leads the reader into it then she successfully delivers the wrap-up and the reader gets the point she's trying to make or the feeling she wants to convey.
She shows the sadness that the mother feels for her boy, but also the determination to help him. The underlying hope comes through. The book is on my watch list. I'm giving it lots of stars.

As you know I searched for my final review of your book that I wrote for you about 45 days ago. I found it, but decided you deserved “fresh roses”. I am so glad your book is at least holding its own and I am confident it will soon be moving up (down?) to number one! Your bravery at writing this intimate story and your artistry with the simple but important message you bring shine out at every turn of phrase. I am, of course, still of the opinion that giving names (real or fictional) in your work would raise the interest of the average reader. However, I’ve beaten that dead horse enough for now. Only good wishes for you from here on!
Joyce ~ Slave to Grace

Hi Faith, You have the makings of a very special book and I hope that it goes all the way. I like the zoom in on life events for each separate chapter. I was one of those who suggested using the term "my son instead of "my boy", or even use a *fictitious" first name or nickname. I think this would make it even more compelling for the reader to participate in the emotional roller coaster you describe and to identify with him as a person, not just someone's boy. Either way you choose to go, its a great narrative and I admire you for writing it and...living it. I pray that your efforts will return to you a hundredfold! I know that there is great purpose for your journey.
Jane>"The Celestial Proposal"

Faith Rose--This is a review for CLF. I read the first three chapters and am deeply touched by your story. Your honest, reality-bound, loving, believing narrative should be a great help to many people.

Like some other reviewers, I want more. You are barely over 10K words. I wonder if you could write an afterword (clearly marked off from the narrative) with thoughts, in capsule form, that could help other parents facing such challenges.

You write very well. I can't find any suggestions to make. Your typeface was a bit distracting. I think it is Courier--giving it the look of a term-paper. Times Roman is a standard font that is easier on the eyes.

Please keep writing.

Jim Workman
Christopher Hitchens At Heaven--Atheist Meets Jesus

A story told from the heart, which touches the heart of the reader. I shall continue to read. Six stars from me today.
Maria (Georgina's Family)

What a wonderful book! Straight from the heart of the author it speaks directly to the reader of a God of love who is able to do far exceedingly above all that we ask or think. He is able to use the darkest circumstances to bring us closer to Himself as this mother shows from her own personal experience. It answers the questions so many have about a God of love who allow things in our lives which at first glance do not seem 'lovely' and we cannot understand. And yet He reveals Himself to us in a personal way through those very circumstances.

I love chapter 6 about blessing. How often we feel that God has given us more than we can bear "The God that must've known this was more than I could bear." and yet His wisdom is greater than our own and we learn more of His love through that very burden!

I love so much about this book. It speaks to those with a direct connection with autism but it also speaks to each one of us about a God of love who is worthy of our love because of Jesus - irrespective of our difficult circumstances. It is such an honest book - about being angry with God, about having pride, about resisting what is happening in life and much more besides.

Your book caused me to worship God and give Him the glory for all He has done in your life - and all He has done in mine too!

Thank you for writing this!

Margaret
How do I know I know God?

I had to stop by and indulge in a chapter of this book I love so much! And I cannot read it without feeling strong emotions.
Donna
(No Kiss Good-bye)

Oh Faith!
Today I revisited your book. I skimmed the six chapters I had read already and finished the last three. I smiled through the tears as I read of your faith, your beautiful thoughts and well worded phrases. I thought of all the blessings of life I have enjoyed, the trials I have endured, and the God who has gently steered me through them all. However, when I read the 'Someday' paragraph near the end I cried openly. What a day that will be when we meet at home in heaven! Then there will be no disappointment, no tears or sorrow, no foe to disrupt. There will be joy unspeakable and pure love, and peace to satisfy the very depths of our being.

I felt something of your weariness, the pain of being misunderstood by onlookers, the strain of being 'a living sacrifice' (Rom.12:1), and the hope of knowing the joy that is set before you.

Your writing is inspirational, well edited and ready for publication. It will be a blessing to many. It is now going on my shelf with six stars.

Hi Faith. I picked up your book from the Christian Lit Group.
This is very emotional. I find it compelling and sympathetic. Your hook is perfect.
I can't read longer tonight. (It is 11 PM here and I have to work tomorrow.)
But I will certainly now HAVE to read the rest.
God bless you with your child. I have a daughter with a severely autistic child, too.

This a wonderful touching story. Beautifully written with love, hope and not forgetting faith.
It shows us the the day to day struggle and committment dealing with autism and how people on the outside lack the understanding. Its a powerful story and it certainly moved me and I couldn't stop reading it. I believe in God and faith, but I'm sure even someone without those beliefs would surely love this story and appreciate the day to day challenges you have to face.and how your faith strengthens you.
I did find one thing but it is just my personal opinion, you keep referring to your children as 'my boy' or 'my girl', which is okay and you obviously dont want to use their names, but it sounds a little strange all the time. Wouldn't it be better to give them bothe a different name?
Overall the book is well written, its moving and definitely a page turner, and its a book that should be published.
High stars
Junetee(Four Corners)

Hi Faith,

Just read the first chapter.

Very nice. I love the honesty of your descriptions and words...it's quite interesting too, since I myself have Asperger's Syndrome (did you know this already from Joe?) and I've had many struggles, especially when I was in the process of growing up (which some might say I still am, although I'm now in my early 20's...how I have changed, though, is pretty incredible...).

Of course I suppose the best thing is how for all the differences that having Asperger's brings, they're both bad and good - I used to have problems with social interaction, not with talking to people, but in understanding them, and I was always socially anxious. Neither of those things really apply nowadays...I still have trouble understanding some social nuances, but other than that a lot of things have changed for the better in the last few years.

I love the message in your story too: Hope. Hope is what keeps us all going, and as a Buddhist I completely identify with that as well.

It's also great how you keep it so tight and to the point; instead of giving loads of actual descriptions of his and your experiences, you just have a few brief points leading up to the revelation that he has Asperger's. Fantastic stuff. :)

All the best,

Tristram x

Such an inspiration I have backed your book a total living song...such human sunshine. Well done and good luck! Clare Be The Human Sunshine. x

It is with love we embrace all things, it is as a Mother our children become our everything, your first page had me intrigued and overwhelmed wanting to learn more. As a Mother, a writer, a worker with disadvantaged young people and an advocate for all young people, it is hear I say, what courage you have, what admiration I have for you, such a beautiful soul. I know this book will leave me in awe, it is with hope you are touched with my human sunbeam and it is with faith your book opens the eyes of the ignorant, for God resides where all embrace faith, thanks and understanding of the privilege. Clare "Be The Human Sunshine" I will put you on my watchlist and cannot wait to be educated further. :)

Having read the first chapter, I have to concur with the other comments on this excellent book. This isn't the sort of thing I normally like to read, but it tugged my heartstrings... Very well written and the style is easy to read. No negative points to make, although I do wonder if some of your bigger paragraphs at the beginning might be broken up. Shorter paras help draw the reader in. I have a tendency to write long paragraphs myself and afterwards feel the need to go through with a great big axe.

"I was filled with only hope" - I don't think the word "only" is needed, it dampens the effect of this sentence. And remember the opening sentence/sentences of a book are usually the most important. "I was filled with hope for my nearly-born baby." (Note also the hyphen: surely "nearly born" should be "nearly-born.") An alternative to this would be: "I had only hope..."

"All of our efforts, though, weighed heavy with futility" - wonder if there might be an easier way of putting this. How does something "weigh heavy with futility"? It could weigh heavily ON a person with futility. A possible rephrasing might be: "All of our efforts were futile, though, and this weighed heavily on us." You can do better than that, I'm sure.

Other than that, great! Six stars, rated. Would back but my shelf's full and I have commitments to those other books. When they reach the ED, I'll keep you in mind. (But I see you're nearly there already... Good luck!)

Faith,

I am so sorry it has taken me so long to look at 'Now to Him', But I got here at last. I'm not great at critiquing, I tell everyone that. Basically if there are any typo's etc I won't notice. I comment as a reader and nothing else.
This is written beautifully and is a real reminder to all of the extent of a mothers love. I didn't know anything about autism so I got a little education as I read. This topic deserves more awareness and your book may just be the thing to do it.
You write in a unique style, it is easy to read and flows well. You could have made this book a tale of woe yet you didn't, instead you have given so many inspiration.
The passages of the bible interspersed throughout show how they relate to the situation you faced at time. God's intervention.
Your faith has carried you through and taught you to cope - this will help many in similar circumstances. All mothers out there along with children who have ever been loved will identify with you and the determination you have shown.
This is good, very good, I can only apologise for having taking so long to get around to reading it.
Highly starred from me, I think this will be very successful,

Jayne

this is a wonderful well written story. I started reading the first chapter and I am now on chapter four and I am truly enjoying it very much. I find your story touching, believable and have a great message, which is extremely valuable to those facing the same problems. I wrote almost a long paragraph about your book, but I did on word and this website doesn't allow to paste it, but I will try to send you as a message as I would like you to know everything I wanted to say. I rated with 6 stars and i will keep reading it. Thanks for publishing it on authonomy.

Eddie

This is a wonderful well-written story, which touches deep inside us. I started reading the first chapter and I am now on chapter 4.I am truly enjoying this book for a few reasons, but mainly because your story as you wrote it, is believable. It sounds as if you were saying the words instead of have written them. I think you were very brave writing in the first person, but maybe that is exactly what makes your story to stand out and so brilliant written. I can almost feel your pain and also your joy when you got the yellow puppy. I rate it with 6 stars because it deserves and I will carry on reading it. On the other hand from a publishing point of view I would suggest you to change ‘my boy’ sometime for ‘my son’ ‘him’ ‘his name’ or alternative words. I think the book is beautiful as it is, but while I was reading the first two chapters the word ‘my boy’ was really strong and well in place, but too much repetition may distract the reader and lose its strenght, as by the time I was on chapter 4 even loving the book as I am, i wished you were using something else. The topic of your book is really important. I know it is not supposed to be a guide to parents, but as a teacher I know parents facing the same problem may learn a lot with your book, not only because of the subject, but also because it shows how you dealt and deal with it, which may mean a lot for those parents who are trying to understand their children and the best way to help them to be happy. Thanks for charing your book.

Eddie

I started reading this a while ago and only just got back now to finish. You are very brave to write this and to tell your story - and it is a very important story to tell. My mother ran a school for children with severe learning disabilities and both my sister and sister in law work in the field (I had to do something different - LOL) what is so clear is that not only did you feel you had a story to share with the world and perhaps through telling the story you helped yourself cope and process your experiences and your unique perspective on the challenges that you and your son were presented with, but you also have put this out in the world for other parents to gain strength from and to enable them to identify with what you experienced. It is touching and full of hope and as I a mom I can vouch that it's written in the very realistic very heartfelt voice of a mother and that is its power. Thank you for sharing this with the word.

- Bunderful