How to Be a Sister: A Love Story with a Twist of Autism

by Eileen Garvin

Book Overview

Eileen Garvin's older sister, Margaret, was diagnosed with severe autism at age three. Growing up alongside Margaret wasn't easy: Eileen often found herself in situations that were simultaneously awkward, hilarious, and heartbreaking. For example, losing a blue plastic hairbrush could leave Margaret inconsolable for hours, and a quiet Sunday Mass might provoke an outburst of laughter, swearing, or dancing.

How to Be a Sister begins when...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1615190163
• ISBN13: 9781615190164
• Release Date: April 2010
• Publisher: Experiment
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.3" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

A solid addition to any memoir collection focused on autism

Autism does more than affect the individual. It affects a family. "How to Be a Sister: A Love Story with a Twist of Autism" is the reflections of one girl growing up with a sister with severe autism. She shares her stories and what Margaret, her sister, has taught her over the years through her disorder. Poignant, thoughtful, and sure to give many family members of autistic children something to relate to, "How to Be a Sister" is a solid addition to any memoir collection focused on autism.

Great!

I met the author at a conference and found her to be as real and wry as her writing. Her book is just the shot in the arm that I needed. Can't wait to read more.

The Complexity and Simplicity of Real Life

With authenticity and clarity, Eileen Garvin weaves her rich story telling with deep insights into the human condition. This is a memoire about the impact autistic siblings have on their family's lives. What defines a mutually satisfying and wholesome relationship with an autistic family member? Eileen finds her way to answer this and other questions relevant to all of us. The deeper meaning to be found in human relationships is revealed through the messiness of growing up with autism in the family.

Real!!

Eileen Garvin is an amazing writer. Once I started this book I could not put it down. Thank you for writing this book.

It made me cry, it made me laugh ...out loud on the plane.

AMAZING - what a beautiful love story that is so special, and so sweet. Thank you for writing this.