My sister is 13 years old. When she was 2 she was diagnosed with classic autism and severe mental retardation. We already knew she was different and doctors thought she had a different disorder, I can't remember the name of it, I'll ask my mom about it later...but anyway, when we found out about her autism we always went to different therapists, speech, physical, occupational, any therapist you could think of. My sister never learned to talk and dropped sign language at the age of 4. It's been difficult, because she is still being toilet trained and she likes to take her pants off, even if I have company over. She eats with her hands and we have to help her with day-to-day necessities.
Well, here's my idea: I want to write a book about a siblings point of view having a sister with autism. The problem is I don't know where to start or how to write it. I want it to be easy to relate to because I know how hard it is for siblings like myself to find support groups.
I'm just afraid I'd never be able to get it published because I'm 15, but I really want my story out there. There are less things about siblings from siblings than there are about parents.

Any advice?
Please and thank you!
-Summer Jo

I am not a writer so cannot give any good advice but I do think it would be great if you wrote a book on this subject. A book geared towards other kids your age who are in your situation would benefit so many kids. My older son is on the spectrum and my youngest son has such a hard time dealing with it. I hope others come along and can give you some good advice about how to get started. Don't worry about getting it published.....yet. Just start writing.

Good luck!

Age has nothing to do with success and great ideas. One should always write about what one knows. You know what it is like to live with a sister with autism. So WRITE!!! You will know what to say. What is so hard about trusting your own self and listening to your inside you? You can give me all the excuses in the world to which I reply, "But why not write your thoughts, experiences, and day to day stuff down? There are so many people that need to hear you." Remember to write about the funny and loving moments too.

If you would like to hear of a way that might soften your sister and help her mellow a little, I think I know of a way that might work. You can email if you would like to. smcpelkey@yahoo.com

You have an excellent idea.

There is a book that is published every year called the "Writer's Market" -- it's about where and how to sell what you write, has over 4,000 listings for book publishers, consumer magazines, etc,etc. It will give you the information you need to get started. Most public libraries have this book in their reference section or you can buy it.

You could find an agent or send your idea to appropriate publishers -- the Writer's Market explains it all.

Have you ever thought of trying to sell your story to a magazine -- it's an excellent idea and I think many magazines would love to publish something from a fifteen year old.

Good Luck.

Kina.