In this column we not only want to share quality literature that will help parents and teachers guide children into positive reading experiences, we also attempt to identify books that address issues that our twice- exceptional children may be facing. By reading novels that depict how others deal with the same or similar issues, the issue may be defused a bit. In addition, readers then have a model on which they may base their own behavior.

With this in mind, let’s direct our attention to two books. Both deal with Asperger Syndrome, and both are written by authors who are mothers of children with Asperger’s. One is for younger readers, Baj and the Word Launcher, by Pamela Victor (2006, Jessica Kingsley Publishers). The other is for teenagers, Haze, by Kathy Hoopmann (2003, Jessica Kingsley Publishers).

Baj and the Word Launcher is set in the future and has a bit of the science fiction genre that makes for more fun reading. Baj, who lives on the planet Aular, has Asperger’s. His counselor, Mr. Pilma, has given him “a magical communication kit” to help him deal with his situation. Baj has trouble reading body language, making eye contact, and taking turns in conversation. With his new kit and the rules that he and Mr. Pilma have created, Baj begins to learn the complex rules of the social world. In the kit are an invisible “Calming Cape” that helps him to keep calm in difficult situations; a “Word Launcher” to help him decide the best words to use in a particular situation; and “Listening Aids” that help him focus on the important words when others speak.  

Baj and the Word Launcher is a great book for elementary classroom use. It can help classmates understand Asperger Syndrome, and it would certainly help the student with Asperger’s to see how others are dealing with similar problems. The book is easy to read, topped off with humor, and has a few little subplots that make for an interesting story. Each chapter ends with a set of discussion questions that are helpful in understanding Asperger Syndrome and in helping students adapt their own behavior. This book is certainly worth the effort to locate.

Haze by Kathy Hoopmann really grabbed my attention. This book is especially well written and was short listed for the 2003 Australian Special Education Needs Children’s Book Award. Sebastian (Seb) is a teenager and a loner. He is brilliant with computers and numbers but hopeless with people.

Moving into his teen years, Seb’s undiagnosed Asperger’s is creating more conflict with his parents, his teachers, and his peers. Plus, his aversion to social interaction comes into conflict with a growing interest in girls. Then enters Miss Adonia, a substitute teacher who teaches his advanced computer class. Miss Adonia takes an interest in Seb, impressed with his computer skills and knowledge. She suggests that he might research Asperger Syndrome on the web. Before long, however, we see that Miss Adonia’s interest is more than just a teacher’s concern for a student. Seb, it seems, is suspected of international computer fraud. Another sub-plot develops as well, involving Seb’s friend Madeline. She, too, is skilled in computers and is being emotionally abused by a controlling mother. When a mysterious cyber friend of Madeline’s is brought into to the plot against Seb, some interesting things happen. In short, this is a great little mystery story that will certainly hold the reader’s attention.

Haze deals with Asperger Syndrome subtly, but it still provides important information and describes the frustration that surrounds individuals who have Asperger’s. All in all, this was a great read!  I recommend it for any teenage reader.

Both of these novels are recommended, not just for fun reading, but to gain insights into Asperger Syndrome. Happy Reading!

 

Retired from teaching in the Masters of Gifted Studies Program at Mississippi University for Women, Bob Seney is now Professor Emeritus. At conferences, he often presents a session titled “What’s New in Young Adult Literature.” Bob serves on the NAGC Board of Directors. Reach him at bseney@muw.edu.