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Giaci and Me: A Mother's Journey of Loving and Raising an Autistic Child
With more than a half-million global followers on TikTok, Rita Miceli’s young adult son Giaci and his sisters are making a big impact. Surrounded by the unconditional love of his family, Giaci invites his fans to be privy to the rich tapestry of the life he leads, sharing everyday activities including housekeeping, finances, and the emotional health of his parents and siblings. In Giaci and Me, author and mother Rita Miceli shares her story to help parents of autistic children be inspired, feel better, and continue their journey knowing they are not alone.
A narrative of Rita’s innermost thoughts, realizations, and fears, this memoir of perseverance serves as a much-needed resource for caregivers and family members of people with autism. Rita wished for such a book at the beginning of her own journey as a mother of a child with autism, and now she offers to her readers a comprehensive framework that spans decades. From the early days of diagnosis through to the unusual, the exciting, and the uplifting, Giaci and Me shares an empathetic and compassionate perspective that can lead to better support for families living with autism.
A narrative of Rita’s innermost thoughts, realizations, and fears, this memoir of perseverance serves as a much-needed resource for caregivers and family members of people with autism. Rita wished for such a book at the beginning of her own journey as a mother of a child with autism, and now she offers to her readers a comprehensive framework that spans decades. From the early days of diagnosis through to the unusual, the exciting, and the uplifting, Giaci and Me shares an empathetic and compassionate perspective that can lead to better support for families living with autism.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
1 person is currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 30, 2024
I don't know what to say about this incredible book.
Actually this is a story of a fighter son and mother.
autism is a genetic condition. When the child has it the child needs special care.
Rita Miceli takes us into this emotionally draining yet heartwarming journey.
Those who don't know she is having a million followers in ticktock.
In this book she narrates how the struggling was and how she overcome the obstacles.
Read this book and thank me later.
Actually this is a story of a fighter son and mother.
autism is a genetic condition. When the child has it the child needs special care.
Rita Miceli takes us into this emotionally draining yet heartwarming journey.
Those who don't know she is having a million followers in ticktock.
In this book she narrates how the struggling was and how she overcome the obstacles.
Read this book and thank me later.
April 11, 2024
A few years back, I was recruited to tutor a teenager with something called Asperger's. During the course of finding our way through the math, English and science lessons, I learned that Asperger's is on the autism spectrum, that this is something children are born with, that it is not "curable," and that the life of the person so affected is a constant adjustment - what can the child do "normally," what kinds of adaptations need to take place? My student was generally antisocial, particularly with his age group. He was quite resistant to any kind of authority, a characteristic which very much made learning a cooperative adventure. He was fascinated with trains, bridges and dams, and it became clear to me that he was going to have future impact in a field which involved one or all of these.
Principally, however, I learned how a child so affected can consume the time and energy of a loving parent. This lesson was reiterated for me, in spades, with Giaci and me. Giaci (pronounced "judgy") is a shortened version of the name Giacinto, the paternal grandfather of Giaci's father John. The second of four children for mom Rita, at age 1 it became clear that Giaci was unlike older sister Lauren - minimal social interaction, minimal eye contact, minimal communication. This book is about Rita's relationship with Giaci and her efforts to help him cope with life, as well as Rita's personal efforts to acclimate herself to the notion of dealing with a differently able child. The anguish and the love felt by the author permeate this book, which is not a "how to" advice manual on dealing with autism. Rather, it is one person's description of how she dealt with it. I wish I could steer the mom of the child that I tutored toward this book, because I am certain she would nod her head in agreement with many of Rita's observations and gain solace that hers was not a solitary journey.
Principally, however, I learned how a child so affected can consume the time and energy of a loving parent. This lesson was reiterated for me, in spades, with Giaci and me. Giaci (pronounced "judgy") is a shortened version of the name Giacinto, the paternal grandfather of Giaci's father John. The second of four children for mom Rita, at age 1 it became clear that Giaci was unlike older sister Lauren - minimal social interaction, minimal eye contact, minimal communication. This book is about Rita's relationship with Giaci and her efforts to help him cope with life, as well as Rita's personal efforts to acclimate herself to the notion of dealing with a differently able child. The anguish and the love felt by the author permeate this book, which is not a "how to" advice manual on dealing with autism. Rather, it is one person's description of how she dealt with it. I wish I could steer the mom of the child that I tutored toward this book, because I am certain she would nod her head in agreement with many of Rita's observations and gain solace that hers was not a solitary journey.
April 20, 2024
Raw and Emotional: Navigating Autism with Grace
Rita Miceli chronicles the peaks and valleys of a mother's journey through the maze of Autism, through her raw and emotional world. As a wife and mother of four, she shares her deeply personal experiences in a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and ultimately uplifting. The author's willingness to expose her vulnerability, including the toll it took on her career and mental health, is genuine and moving.
Rita grapples with the initial shock of the diagnosis, detailing the struggles of daily life, from her safe place, the shower – to moments leading to the painful realization that her son needed more than this beautiful family could give.
A key strength of "Giaci and Me" lies in the mother's journey to understand and connect with her son, breaking down seemingly insurmountable challenges into manageable steps. The decision to join a movement advocating for extended therapy beyond the age of four reflects the broader societal issues faced by parents of children with Autism, shedding light on how critical it is for accessible intervention and support.
The author's courage in sharing the difficult decision to keep the diagnosis from her extended family for years adds a layer of authenticity to her turmoil. Her daughters become part of a connected family network who protect and give their brother unconditional attention and love. As the story unfolds, the decision to reach out to fellow parents and community members who understand the unique challenges of raising a child with Autism becomes a turning point in the family's journey.
This book is nothing short of a celebration of resilience and love. The family's embrace of Autism as a part of their lives, coupled with the positive impact of the support network, highlights the power of understanding and acceptance. The book masterfully captures the evolution of the family's dynamics, illustrating how Autism has not only changed their lives but, in many ways, enriched and deepened their connections.
This book is a powerful testament to the strength of familial love, resilience, and the transformative potential of embracing the journey of raising a child with Autism. It serves as both a source of inspiration for families facing similar challenges and an eye-opener for those seeking a deeper understanding of the emotional terrain traversed by parents in the Autism community.
Rita Miceli chronicles the peaks and valleys of a mother's journey through the maze of Autism, through her raw and emotional world. As a wife and mother of four, she shares her deeply personal experiences in a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and ultimately uplifting. The author's willingness to expose her vulnerability, including the toll it took on her career and mental health, is genuine and moving.
Rita grapples with the initial shock of the diagnosis, detailing the struggles of daily life, from her safe place, the shower – to moments leading to the painful realization that her son needed more than this beautiful family could give.
A key strength of "Giaci and Me" lies in the mother's journey to understand and connect with her son, breaking down seemingly insurmountable challenges into manageable steps. The decision to join a movement advocating for extended therapy beyond the age of four reflects the broader societal issues faced by parents of children with Autism, shedding light on how critical it is for accessible intervention and support.
The author's courage in sharing the difficult decision to keep the diagnosis from her extended family for years adds a layer of authenticity to her turmoil. Her daughters become part of a connected family network who protect and give their brother unconditional attention and love. As the story unfolds, the decision to reach out to fellow parents and community members who understand the unique challenges of raising a child with Autism becomes a turning point in the family's journey.
This book is nothing short of a celebration of resilience and love. The family's embrace of Autism as a part of their lives, coupled with the positive impact of the support network, highlights the power of understanding and acceptance. The book masterfully captures the evolution of the family's dynamics, illustrating how Autism has not only changed their lives but, in many ways, enriched and deepened their connections.
This book is a powerful testament to the strength of familial love, resilience, and the transformative potential of embracing the journey of raising a child with Autism. It serves as both a source of inspiration for families facing similar challenges and an eye-opener for those seeking a deeper understanding of the emotional terrain traversed by parents in the Autism community.
April 15, 2024
What a beautiful and at times heartbreaking read about a Mother bringing up an autistic little boy alongside three other young children and the struggle and challenges her and the family faced as he transitioned through the years and her love that meant she moved heaven and earth not only to change his life but also the lives of other autistic children and families in the future. At times this book is a hard read as you hear about the barriers she had to smash down but ultimately it’s a book about love in a family and how sometimes even the toughest challenges can overcome if you look at it all from a different angle. This is a great resource from anyone who feels alone following a diagnosis and a book to encourage everyone to keep fighting to make a change.
March 31, 2024
Giaci and Me is truly an authentic look into the life of a mother with an autistic child. It is a raw, and heartfelt look of all the ups and downs of life. Must read for all parents and professionals of children with special needs.
April 21, 2024
“Giaci and Me” by Rita Miceli is more than a book; it’s a profound personal journey into the heart of parenting a child with autism. This memoir, written with deep love and an open heart, captures the essence of unconditional love and the relentless pursuit of understanding and acceptance. Rita Miceli, with her narrative, takes us through the highs and lows, the trials and triumphs of raising her son Giaci, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into their daily life and the broader implications of living with autism.
This book touched me deeply, reminding me of the stark differences in the type of love I grew up with compared to the pure and unconditional love shared in Rita’s story. Each page, filled with honest reflections and heartfelt challenges, moved me to tears, reflecting not only the struggles but also the joyful and victorious moments that are often overlooked when discussing autism.
Rita’s story prompted me to explore my own life in new ways, leading me to take an adult screening assessment where I discovered that I am in the middle of the spectrum. This book not only educated me but also provided a sense of solidarity and understanding that I had not expected to find.
“Giaci and Me” is a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit. It is an essential read for anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of family, acceptance, and the beautiful complexity of human relationships. Through her journey, Rita Miceli has not only raised awareness about autism but has also shown us how resilience and compassion can open pathways to a richer, more understanding life.
For families navigating similar paths, this book will be a beacon of hope and a source of strength. For others, it promises to be an eye-opening exploration of what it means to love fiercely, without conditions, and to find joy in the face of adversity. This book is a must-read, destined to inspire and educate anyone who picks it up. I highly recommend it to everyone. A must-have for parents living with kids within the autistic spectrum.
This book touched me deeply, reminding me of the stark differences in the type of love I grew up with compared to the pure and unconditional love shared in Rita’s story. Each page, filled with honest reflections and heartfelt challenges, moved me to tears, reflecting not only the struggles but also the joyful and victorious moments that are often overlooked when discussing autism.
Rita’s story prompted me to explore my own life in new ways, leading me to take an adult screening assessment where I discovered that I am in the middle of the spectrum. This book not only educated me but also provided a sense of solidarity and understanding that I had not expected to find.
“Giaci and Me” is a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit. It is an essential read for anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of family, acceptance, and the beautiful complexity of human relationships. Through her journey, Rita Miceli has not only raised awareness about autism but has also shown us how resilience and compassion can open pathways to a richer, more understanding life.
For families navigating similar paths, this book will be a beacon of hope and a source of strength. For others, it promises to be an eye-opening exploration of what it means to love fiercely, without conditions, and to find joy in the face of adversity. This book is a must-read, destined to inspire and educate anyone who picks it up. I highly recommend it to everyone. A must-have for parents living with kids within the autistic spectrum.
July 11, 2024
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A BOOK THAT SHOWS US THAT AUTISM CANNOT BE CURED, BUT II CAN BE EFFECTIVELY MANAGED AND WORKED WITH
XXXXX
This is a story about my son Giaci (pronounced ["Judge-ghee"]), who during infancy was like every other little boy until we noticed he lacked language and began to demonstrate odd behaviours. By the time he reached the age of two, we received an explanation when Giaci was diagnosed with autism.
[This book] invites the reader into my family's world and shows how we evolved through decades of education, of struggle, and of growth."
The above (in italics) comes from this well-written revealing book by Rita Miceli. She has been a teacher for over three decades. Miceli now teaches in the Autism and Behavioural Science Graduate Program at St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology (whose main campus is in Winsor, Ontario, Canada).
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in reciprocal social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour. There are other common signs of it such as rigid routines and sensory overload. Autism is regarded as a spectrum disorder (meaning that it can manifest very differently in each person). There is no cure for it and it probably has multiple causes.
This book will definitely help people understand what families with an autistic child experience as well as help people find empathy for each family's individual situation.
Finally, this book taught me about such things as cultural norms, controversies, different perspectives, language, neurodiversity, behavioural intervention, unconditional love and, above all, perseverance.
In conclusion, this raw and unfiltered tome captures the struggles, heartbreaks, and victories of raising an autistic son, underscoring the power of unconditional family love, community, and ultimately, acceptance.
XXXXX
(2024; preface; 3 parts or 40 chapters; main narrative 275 pages; acknowledgements; about the author)
XXXXX
A BOOK THAT SHOWS US THAT AUTISM CANNOT BE CURED, BUT II CAN BE EFFECTIVELY MANAGED AND WORKED WITH
XXXXX
This is a story about my son Giaci (pronounced ["Judge-ghee"]), who during infancy was like every other little boy until we noticed he lacked language and began to demonstrate odd behaviours. By the time he reached the age of two, we received an explanation when Giaci was diagnosed with autism.
[This book] invites the reader into my family's world and shows how we evolved through decades of education, of struggle, and of growth."
The above (in italics) comes from this well-written revealing book by Rita Miceli. She has been a teacher for over three decades. Miceli now teaches in the Autism and Behavioural Science Graduate Program at St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology (whose main campus is in Winsor, Ontario, Canada).
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in reciprocal social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour. There are other common signs of it such as rigid routines and sensory overload. Autism is regarded as a spectrum disorder (meaning that it can manifest very differently in each person). There is no cure for it and it probably has multiple causes.
This book will definitely help people understand what families with an autistic child experience as well as help people find empathy for each family's individual situation.
Finally, this book taught me about such things as cultural norms, controversies, different perspectives, language, neurodiversity, behavioural intervention, unconditional love and, above all, perseverance.
In conclusion, this raw and unfiltered tome captures the struggles, heartbreaks, and victories of raising an autistic son, underscoring the power of unconditional family love, community, and ultimately, acceptance.
XXXXX
(2024; preface; 3 parts or 40 chapters; main narrative 275 pages; acknowledgements; about the author)
XXXXX
May 1, 2024
A Heartfelt Journey Through Love and Challenge: A Review of "Giaci and Me"
"Giaci and Me" is a profound and moving account of a mother's journey raising an autistic child, written with immense heart and sincerity by Rita Miceli. This book not only draws the reader into the intricacies of navigating life with autism but does so with such warmth and realism that one cannot help but be deeply moved.
Rita Miceli writes from the heart, capturing the highs and lows with raw emotion and unfiltered honesty. She portrays Giaci as tender and respectful, presenting his world in a way that enlightens and educates. The challenges are never minimized, yet the narrative is imbued with hope and the unbreakable bonds of family.
Supporting characters like John, Lauren, Maria, Carolina, and Josie add rich layers to the story, each bringing their own perspective and support to Giaci’s life. They enhance the book's depth, showing the communal effort required in nurturing and understanding a child with unique needs.
"Giaci and Me" is not just a book about autism; it's a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the human spirit. It is educational, emotionally resonant, and ultimately inspiring. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of autism through the eyes of a fiercely loving mother. It reminds us that while the journey may be fraught with challenges, the rewards of love and understanding are boundless.
"Giaci and Me" is a profound and moving account of a mother's journey raising an autistic child, written with immense heart and sincerity by Rita Miceli. This book not only draws the reader into the intricacies of navigating life with autism but does so with such warmth and realism that one cannot help but be deeply moved.
Rita Miceli writes from the heart, capturing the highs and lows with raw emotion and unfiltered honesty. She portrays Giaci as tender and respectful, presenting his world in a way that enlightens and educates. The challenges are never minimized, yet the narrative is imbued with hope and the unbreakable bonds of family.
Supporting characters like John, Lauren, Maria, Carolina, and Josie add rich layers to the story, each bringing their own perspective and support to Giaci’s life. They enhance the book's depth, showing the communal effort required in nurturing and understanding a child with unique needs.
"Giaci and Me" is not just a book about autism; it's a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the human spirit. It is educational, emotionally resonant, and ultimately inspiring. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of autism through the eyes of a fiercely loving mother. It reminds us that while the journey may be fraught with challenges, the rewards of love and understanding are boundless.
May 18, 2024
This book is a testament to family love and determination. The author, her three daughters and her husband have worked as a team to raise and support Giaci, who is now a happy and productive young man . When I heard Rita interviewed on CBC Radio, I immediately put this book on hold. Having worked with children for over 30 years, I had met a number of kids with autism and was interested to read about her personal experience. I devoured the book in hours and recommend it to anyone interested in child development, education and families. It is written in a very personal way, tracking their family journey with Autism, battles with government officials, teachers, judgement from passers-by and even from extended family. But Giaci's story is ultimately a very happy one, his family has made sure of that! This book is truly inspiring. Well-known autistic professor Temple Grandin herself has provided a blurb, citing Rita's "..practice of tolerance and procedural routine."
March 23, 2024
Every story is unique and personal to the author, but a story like this is even more so.
This book was full of highs and lows. Parts of it tugged at my heartstrings, parts of it made me smile. It was moving, but also heartwarming and rewarding, to read about Rita and her family, and all of their experiences raising Giaci.
Every child is unique and individual, and there is no doubt that when it comes to raising a child, each journey will be different, with different obstacles and bumps in the road. So, I found myself thinking again about the phrasing in the book's title - "A Mother's Journey of Loving". I would never try to give anyone advice on how to raise their children, since I am not qualified to do so. Having said that, I think that LOVE is always what's most important, and I felt this story was full of love.
This book was full of highs and lows. Parts of it tugged at my heartstrings, parts of it made me smile. It was moving, but also heartwarming and rewarding, to read about Rita and her family, and all of their experiences raising Giaci.
Every child is unique and individual, and there is no doubt that when it comes to raising a child, each journey will be different, with different obstacles and bumps in the road. So, I found myself thinking again about the phrasing in the book's title - "A Mother's Journey of Loving". I would never try to give anyone advice on how to raise their children, since I am not qualified to do so. Having said that, I think that LOVE is always what's most important, and I felt this story was full of love.
April 25, 2024
It has been a while since I had a book that I couldn't put down, that I read in a day - but this one is it.
Rita Miceli has written a memoir that unflinchingly tells the story of her son Giaci's autism diagnosis and how it affected him, her and the entire family. A fierce advocate for her son Miceli pulls no punches in this story - allowing us to see the good and the bad. She doesn't soften her own reactions, her own (perceived) failings and that helps to make her story one that is relatable to all parents, caregivers and educators.
This book will help people, encourage people and educate people.
*standard memoir disclaimer - I don't like rating memoirs because it's your story to tell and who am I to judge.
Rita Miceli has written a memoir that unflinchingly tells the story of her son Giaci's autism diagnosis and how it affected him, her and the entire family. A fierce advocate for her son Miceli pulls no punches in this story - allowing us to see the good and the bad. She doesn't soften her own reactions, her own (perceived) failings and that helps to make her story one that is relatable to all parents, caregivers and educators.
This book will help people, encourage people and educate people.
*standard memoir disclaimer - I don't like rating memoirs because it's your story to tell and who am I to judge.
May 6, 2024
This is a book you can’t set down and if you do it’s for yourself to reflect, feel deeply, and immediately pick back up. Thoughts and emotions are felt deeply after completing this book. Thinking of Giaci’s story, his family and everyone else in our world whose life has been affected with autism. This book is amazing. Thank you Giacis mother who wrote this book!
May 22, 2024
Loved every minute of it!
Loved the book and could not put it down. Great tale of a mother’s struggles and triumphs.
I highly recommend to anyone good life lessons overall.
Loved the book and could not put it down. Great tale of a mother’s struggles and triumphs.
I highly recommend to anyone good life lessons overall.
August 14, 2024
I am in love with this family. If you don't follow them on social media, do. Wholesome, heartrending content. Beautiful book. Beautiful family.
November 5, 2024
A beautiful depiction of a mothers journey raising an autistic child - inspiring to read!
June 4, 2025
Terrific book. Could not put it down. I want to read more from this author.
September 17, 2025
I could not put this book down!
January 4, 2026
I read Giaci and Me by Rita Miceli as part of @thecanadianbookclubawards back in October, but never got around to posting a review!
Here's what it is about:
In Giaci and Me, Rita Miceli invites readers into daily life with her son Giaci, sharing everything from household routines to finances and the emotional wellbeing of their close-knit family. Through honest reflections, fears, and realizations, this memoir follows her journey raising a child with autism from diagnosis through decades of growth.
My Thoughts:
This one made it in to my top 5 choices that I submitted as an Avid Reader for the awards. I liked that the book was written by a Canadian author and set in Canada, and that it was well-written and easy to connect with the narration. Having worked with several students with autism, I can only imagine how difficult it can be to raise a child who has significant needs. Rita definitely went above and beyond to provide as much support for her son as possible, often butting heads with the social systems in place that are suppose to support children but often end up offering a lot of hoops to jump through to access them. I think that for anyone who works with children who have autism and/or their families, this would be a great read in order to gain some insight into the challenges those families may be facing on a regular basis. I also think that coming from a Canadian perspective is really helpful in that the services and constraints in our health care and education system are ones that I bump into with families regularly.
Thanks to #thecanadianbookclubawards and the author for giving me the chance to read and review this book!
Here's what it is about:
In Giaci and Me, Rita Miceli invites readers into daily life with her son Giaci, sharing everything from household routines to finances and the emotional wellbeing of their close-knit family. Through honest reflections, fears, and realizations, this memoir follows her journey raising a child with autism from diagnosis through decades of growth.
My Thoughts:
This one made it in to my top 5 choices that I submitted as an Avid Reader for the awards. I liked that the book was written by a Canadian author and set in Canada, and that it was well-written and easy to connect with the narration. Having worked with several students with autism, I can only imagine how difficult it can be to raise a child who has significant needs. Rita definitely went above and beyond to provide as much support for her son as possible, often butting heads with the social systems in place that are suppose to support children but often end up offering a lot of hoops to jump through to access them. I think that for anyone who works with children who have autism and/or their families, this would be a great read in order to gain some insight into the challenges those families may be facing on a regular basis. I also think that coming from a Canadian perspective is really helpful in that the services and constraints in our health care and education system are ones that I bump into with families regularly.
Thanks to #thecanadianbookclubawards and the author for giving me the chance to read and review this book!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews