What do you think?
Rate this book
Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins
Sometimes our best teachers are the ones we least expect.When Patti Smith’s first child was born with Down syndrome, her world shifted overnight. What began as fear and uncertainty became a lifelong education in love, patience, and the power of perspective. Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is the heartwarming true story of how one remarkable son became his mother’s greatest teacher.
Told through 24 unforgettable “lessons,” this deeply moving narrative reveals how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. From moments of heartbreak to bursts of humor and joy, Patti shares how her son Christopher—affectionately known as “Professor Higgins”—transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and unconditional love.
More than a parenting guide, this is an invitation to see the beauty in imperfection and the grace in letting go. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life’s detours, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins will lift your heart, open your mind, and remind you that the unexpected may be your greatest gift.
This book addresses the emotional exhaustion and self-doubt many parents experience when facing unexpected life challenges—particularly raising a child with unique needs. It gently replaces fear, guilt, and the need for control with peace, perspective, and self-compassion.
This inspirational memoir is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the limitless lessons love can teach.
Told through 24 unforgettable “lessons,” this deeply moving narrative reveals how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. From moments of heartbreak to bursts of humor and joy, Patti shares how her son Christopher—affectionately known as “Professor Higgins”—transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and unconditional love.
More than a parenting guide, this is an invitation to see the beauty in imperfection and the grace in letting go. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life’s detours, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins will lift your heart, open your mind, and remind you that the unexpected may be your greatest gift.
This book addresses the emotional exhaustion and self-doubt many parents experience when facing unexpected life challenges—particularly raising a child with unique needs. It gently replaces fear, guilt, and the need for control with peace, perspective, and self-compassion.
This inspirational memoir is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the limitless lessons love can teach.
- GenresNonfiction
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2024
10 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
About the author
Patti Smith
3 books5 followersPatti Smith retired in Southern Utah after practicing law in California for 30 years.
Her memoir shares funny and profound stories highlighting her inspirational journey of
unexpected learning from her oldest child, Chris Higgins who was born with Down syndrome.
Patti enjoys traveling and spending time with her six exceptional children, including Christopher, whom she honors as her master teacher.
Patti was honored to be awarded the prestigious Olive Woolley Burt Award for Creative Writing in the
New Voices category.
Patti is dedicated to learning and helping
others. In fact she is donating hundreds of books to parents of new babies with Down syndrome to share her belief that the life
of a person with this diagnosis is one to cherish and celebrate.
Additionally, a portion of each
book’s proceeds are donated to Rod’s Heroes, a non-profit organization which facilitates the
adoption of vulnerable children like those with Down syndrome from orphanages in third world
countries.
Her memoir shares funny and profound stories highlighting her inspirational journey of
unexpected learning from her oldest child, Chris Higgins who was born with Down syndrome.
Patti enjoys traveling and spending time with her six exceptional children, including Christopher, whom she honors as her master teacher.
Patti was honored to be awarded the prestigious Olive Woolley Burt Award for Creative Writing in the
New Voices category.
Patti is dedicated to learning and helping
others. In fact she is donating hundreds of books to parents of new babies with Down syndrome to share her belief that the life
of a person with this diagnosis is one to cherish and celebrate.
Additionally, a portion of each
book’s proceeds are donated to Rod’s Heroes, a non-profit organization which facilitates the
adoption of vulnerable children like those with Down syndrome from orphanages in third world
countries.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 24, 2026
This book caught my eye for two reasons: I grew up with a sibling with severe disabilities, and I spent my 45-year career in the field of special education, working with children with many different disabilities and with their families. I listened to this in audio, read by the author.
As a mother, Patti Smith clearly learned a great deal from her experiences while raising her son, including the knowledge that she could not control every aspect of his life, nor could she always protect him from whatever difficulties he might encounter. She learned that the “experts” aren’t always right in their predictions or expectations, and that no two individuals with Down Syndrome are alike in their abilities or other attributes. In fact, Chris (or Professor Higgins, as she referred to him often in this book) definitely shaped her as much as, or even more than, she shaped him. As a parent and grandparent myself, I’d say that’s true with all children.
While I enjoyed listening to this memoir, which covers 45 years of parenting a child with Down Syndrome, I’d have liked a little more insight into the impact Chris and his special needs had on his siblings and how she addressed that impact as a mother. Though a couple incidents of minor conflict were briefly acknowledged, the overall experience was portrayed in what felt like an overly optimistic and positive light, ignoring even the most universal of sibling issues.
In sum, this was a worthwhile read that shared a positive perspective on a condition still viewed by too many as a devastating experience to be avoided, rather than the blessing Chris brought to his mother’s life.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an objective review.
As a mother, Patti Smith clearly learned a great deal from her experiences while raising her son, including the knowledge that she could not control every aspect of his life, nor could she always protect him from whatever difficulties he might encounter. She learned that the “experts” aren’t always right in their predictions or expectations, and that no two individuals with Down Syndrome are alike in their abilities or other attributes. In fact, Chris (or Professor Higgins, as she referred to him often in this book) definitely shaped her as much as, or even more than, she shaped him. As a parent and grandparent myself, I’d say that’s true with all children.
While I enjoyed listening to this memoir, which covers 45 years of parenting a child with Down Syndrome, I’d have liked a little more insight into the impact Chris and his special needs had on his siblings and how she addressed that impact as a mother. Though a couple incidents of minor conflict were briefly acknowledged, the overall experience was portrayed in what felt like an overly optimistic and positive light, ignoring even the most universal of sibling issues.
In sum, this was a worthwhile read that shared a positive perspective on a condition still viewed by too many as a devastating experience to be avoided, rather than the blessing Chris brought to his mother’s life.
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an objective review.
February 26, 2026
I am so glad I picked up this audio!
This book by Patti Smith is a testimony to the joy you can experience in life through letting go and surrendering expectations as well as leaning into the unexpected. Patti shares her journey through motherhood in raising a child with Down Syndrome. She challenges readers to disregard misunderstandings and stereotypes surrounding Down Syndrome as well as the perception that one is destined to have a burdensome life sentence. Patti brings awareness to the extremely sad reality that termination or adoption are often the first resources offered to expecting parents once this diagnosis is determined in pregnancies as they are confused or afraid of the unknown.
Through the many heart warming stories shared in this book it is evident of the great joy and deep love in this family.
If you are needing encouragement to find the joy in the struggles you are facing or you want to have your heart increase in size please give this book a read!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to listen and review.
This book by Patti Smith is a testimony to the joy you can experience in life through letting go and surrendering expectations as well as leaning into the unexpected. Patti shares her journey through motherhood in raising a child with Down Syndrome. She challenges readers to disregard misunderstandings and stereotypes surrounding Down Syndrome as well as the perception that one is destined to have a burdensome life sentence. Patti brings awareness to the extremely sad reality that termination or adoption are often the first resources offered to expecting parents once this diagnosis is determined in pregnancies as they are confused or afraid of the unknown.
Through the many heart warming stories shared in this book it is evident of the great joy and deep love in this family.
If you are needing encouragement to find the joy in the struggles you are facing or you want to have your heart increase in size please give this book a read!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to listen and review.
February 5, 2026
We should all aspire to have the humility to learn from others. I signed up for a drawing for this book, because of my love of Patti Smith the singer. I got about a chapter in and quickly realized this was not her voice but a different woman altogether. I went with it. Which is interesting, because of lot of this book is about accepting what comes. There’s a lot of hard won wisdom in this book. It’s fascinating how closely struggle and growth walk hand in hand. I really enjoyed this book andI found its optimistic tone to be a balm in troubled times. Wishing the author and her buddy all the best and thanks for the book. It seems Professor Higgins had a few lessons for me as well.
January 25, 2026
I really enjoyed reading the Kindle version of this book won on Goodreads - thank you! I was interested in this because of my work as a para and wanting to understand Down Syndrome kids and what it's like for their families more. Each chapter involved a story about Chris and the funny things he said, his unusual interests that sometimes frustrated others or the struggles of his mother, the author to accept the things he could and could not do. Along the way she learned important life lessons about accepting others, that valuable lives don't always involve what the world considers an accomplishment, humor, unconditional love and other things. She sought to show that a Down Syndrome child can bring a unique joy to the family, not just challenges. I would recommend it to anyone interested in Down Syndrome children, parenting in general or just plain life.
December 17, 2025
The son is the teacher. The son is not the child the mother thought she’d have but he turned out to be the son she needed. A life as a mother I personally can’t imagine navigating, is told to us through some humor, some tears, but mainly we hear the voice of a mother who is beyond proud of her son…and herself. Which was amazing as I usually feel like the mother/writer of these narratives wants praise from us the reader, because of “look how good of a mom I’ve become.” In Unexpected Lessons, Patti does not need our congratulations, she simple shares that everyday we can learn something new…and learn how to process the “not normal” on a daily basis.
December 12, 2025
Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins
Author: Patti Smith
Narrated by Tara Janae Smith
This is a memoir where Patti Smith is writing about raising a child with Down Syndrome. She tells different stories that lead to teaching moments. As someone who helped raise my twin brother with a mental disability I found her stories to be very relatable.
Tara Janae Smith does a fantastic job narrating the audio book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Two Octaves Publishing for giving me the opportunity to listen to the audio book for my honest review.
Author: Patti Smith
Narrated by Tara Janae Smith
This is a memoir where Patti Smith is writing about raising a child with Down Syndrome. She tells different stories that lead to teaching moments. As someone who helped raise my twin brother with a mental disability I found her stories to be very relatable.
Tara Janae Smith does a fantastic job narrating the audio book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Two Octaves Publishing for giving me the opportunity to listen to the audio book for my honest review.
January 26, 2026
This book was such a surprise--I didn't even realize I'd submit an entry for it and there it was. As a mother of a child with special needs as well as a (retired) teacher for students with special needs, I am ambivalent about such books--always an interesting subject to me of course but also sometimes a little overwhelming.
I am very, very glad I received this book. It was a gift to my spirit. My own child has grown up and become successful beyond every expectation--and this book details the same kind of triumph.
Patti Smith writes with searing honesty about her own limitations as the mother of a son with Down's Syndrome. She charts their journey from her first encounter with the medical system who gave her the standard-at-the-time suggestion that since he had a hopeless condition and would be severely handicapped she should put him in an institution.
It was great grace for her, her son (Chris), and the world that she did not.
Chris is a man in his 40s--much less was known about Downs and the potential of the children diagnosed with it. Today I think--I hope--that the general public knows how much more these children are capable of than was thought in the past. You read of people with the syndrome graduating high school, even college, working, living independently, doing all kinds of things people would not have thought possible.
But even when the achievements (and as Smith points out, every child with Downs is unique) are not so spectacular, Smith presents a moving (and convincing) portrait of how mothering a child like her son can be not the burdened it may be supposed to be but a gift.
Chris emerges from this story as a sensitive, loving, kind person who brings joy to his family and friends (and yes, he has many friends). He has taught his mother to value empathy and surrendering to the present moment over the other kinds of achievements this society values so much. (I will add that this lesson has not stopped his mother from becoming a lawyer later in life--she had Chris when she was 20 and then welcome 5 other children -- biological and familial -- into her home and her life).
What Smith convincingly presents is that far from being a burden, her son taught her how to be a better, more loving, and happier human being.
Smith writes from the perspective of a woman of faith but although this infuses her writing it is not something she belabors. You don't have to believe in anything to learn from her not only how to live with a child with a disability but how to live happily as a human being.
Toward the end of the book, Smith cites a Harvard study finding that to an overwhelming degree (93-95%), families of children with Down's Syndrome are happy--with their lives, the relationships, and with their child.
A lovely book that I was grateful to have read.
I am very, very glad I received this book. It was a gift to my spirit. My own child has grown up and become successful beyond every expectation--and this book details the same kind of triumph.
Patti Smith writes with searing honesty about her own limitations as the mother of a son with Down's Syndrome. She charts their journey from her first encounter with the medical system who gave her the standard-at-the-time suggestion that since he had a hopeless condition and would be severely handicapped she should put him in an institution.
It was great grace for her, her son (Chris), and the world that she did not.
Chris is a man in his 40s--much less was known about Downs and the potential of the children diagnosed with it. Today I think--I hope--that the general public knows how much more these children are capable of than was thought in the past. You read of people with the syndrome graduating high school, even college, working, living independently, doing all kinds of things people would not have thought possible.
But even when the achievements (and as Smith points out, every child with Downs is unique) are not so spectacular, Smith presents a moving (and convincing) portrait of how mothering a child like her son can be not the burdened it may be supposed to be but a gift.
Chris emerges from this story as a sensitive, loving, kind person who brings joy to his family and friends (and yes, he has many friends). He has taught his mother to value empathy and surrendering to the present moment over the other kinds of achievements this society values so much. (I will add that this lesson has not stopped his mother from becoming a lawyer later in life--she had Chris when she was 20 and then welcome 5 other children -- biological and familial -- into her home and her life).
What Smith convincingly presents is that far from being a burden, her son taught her how to be a better, more loving, and happier human being.
Smith writes from the perspective of a woman of faith but although this infuses her writing it is not something she belabors. You don't have to believe in anything to learn from her not only how to live with a child with a disability but how to live happily as a human being.
Toward the end of the book, Smith cites a Harvard study finding that to an overwhelming degree (93-95%), families of children with Down's Syndrome are happy--with their lives, the relationships, and with their child.
A lovely book that I was grateful to have read.
April 7, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Two Octaves Publishing for the chance to listen and review!
What a heartwarming and encouraging story by Patti Smith as she recounts life changing lessons she’s learned by raising and loving her Down Syndrome son, Chris Higgins. There were multiple times throughout this book I felt my heart squeezing and my eyes filling with tears (all happy tears of course)! As Patti says. this isn’t a book about parenting advice, or a story trying to gloss over the challenges of raising a child with trisomy 21, but instead it’s her testimony to how all the joy and wisdom she received from her son outweighed any the hardships or fears she once faced. She wrote this for the parent seeking to find the joy in their struggle or who hasn’t found the silver lining to challenges, or for anyone who wants to hear a story of triumph and joy. But I truly believe any human would gain something from reading this!
Also, this was narrated by Chris’ sister Tara Janae Smith and she did SUCH a fantastic job!!
At its core, this is a story of love. I was continuously blown away by the compassion and kindness of Chris’ siblings, church community, family and friends, as well as random strangers he has encountered throughout his life. But more so, it warmed my heart to hear examples of lives being changed because of Chris’ influence and presence in this world. He teaches us how genuine acceptance can be loving, lifting and healing.
“If patience naturally flows from unconditional love then it must include accepting others as they are without an intent to force my expectations on them or try and change them”
“Chris never needed external evidence of accomplishments, such as a badge or a title, to be happy. And neither should I. This is how Professor Higgins taught me the importance of being willing to let go of my nonessential expectations for my children and the importance of accepting their preferences. This is a classic example of how hard it can be to navigate parenting. To know when to stretch your children to try and accomplish more and to know when to support their choices. There is no easy answer” — Patti then goes on to say how she gave up her dream for Chris to achieve certain things because it wasn’t fair for her goal to be Chris’ goal too. And how hard it is as a parent to surrender the dream you have had for your child since they were a baby, but how beautiful it can be to see what they choose for themselves.
What a heartwarming and encouraging story by Patti Smith as she recounts life changing lessons she’s learned by raising and loving her Down Syndrome son, Chris Higgins. There were multiple times throughout this book I felt my heart squeezing and my eyes filling with tears (all happy tears of course)! As Patti says. this isn’t a book about parenting advice, or a story trying to gloss over the challenges of raising a child with trisomy 21, but instead it’s her testimony to how all the joy and wisdom she received from her son outweighed any the hardships or fears she once faced. She wrote this for the parent seeking to find the joy in their struggle or who hasn’t found the silver lining to challenges, or for anyone who wants to hear a story of triumph and joy. But I truly believe any human would gain something from reading this!
Also, this was narrated by Chris’ sister Tara Janae Smith and she did SUCH a fantastic job!!
At its core, this is a story of love. I was continuously blown away by the compassion and kindness of Chris’ siblings, church community, family and friends, as well as random strangers he has encountered throughout his life. But more so, it warmed my heart to hear examples of lives being changed because of Chris’ influence and presence in this world. He teaches us how genuine acceptance can be loving, lifting and healing.
“If patience naturally flows from unconditional love then it must include accepting others as they are without an intent to force my expectations on them or try and change them”
“Chris never needed external evidence of accomplishments, such as a badge or a title, to be happy. And neither should I. This is how Professor Higgins taught me the importance of being willing to let go of my nonessential expectations for my children and the importance of accepting their preferences. This is a classic example of how hard it can be to navigate parenting. To know when to stretch your children to try and accomplish more and to know when to support their choices. There is no easy answer” — Patti then goes on to say how she gave up her dream for Chris to achieve certain things because it wasn’t fair for her goal to be Chris’ goal too. And how hard it is as a parent to surrender the dream you have had for your child since they were a baby, but how beautiful it can be to see what they choose for themselves.
February 27, 2026
📚🎧Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins
✍🏻Patti Smith
🎧Tara Janae Smith
Blurb:Sometimes our best teachers are the ones we least expect.When Patti Smith’s first child was born with Down syndrome, her world shifted overnight. What began as fear and uncertainty became a lifelong education in love, patience, and the power of perspective. Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is the heartwarming true story of how one remarkable son became his mother’s greatest teacher.
Told through 24 unforgettable “lessons,” this deeply moving narrative reveals how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. From moments of heartbreak to bursts of humor and joy, Patti shares how her son Christopher—affectionately known as “Professor Higgins”—transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and unconditional love.
More than a parenting guide, this is an invitation to see the beauty in imperfection and the grace in letting go. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life’s detours, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins will lift your heart, open your mind, and remind you that the unexpected may be your greatest gift.
This book addresses the emotional exhaustion and self-doubt many parents experience when facing unexpected life challenges—particularly raising a child with unique needs. It gently replaces fear, guilt, and the need for control with peace, perspective, and self-compassion.
This inspirational memoir is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the limitless lessons love can teach.
My Thoughts:
The stories of Chris Higgins are absolutely delightful. This is a heartwarming read that made me laugh several times, but also was a great reminder to open my eyes to the people around me. It gave insightful perspective from someone raising a child with Down syndrome, but also a lot of great advice on parenting any child.The unfolding growth of love is inspiring. It’s a beautiful demonstration of the power of acceptance, determination and love. I highly recommend this book.
Thanks NetGalley, Independently Published and Author Patti Smith for the complimentary copy of "Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#PattiSmith (Author & Publisher)
#UnexpextedLessonsFromProfessorHiggins
⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Patti Smith
🎧Tara Janae Smith
Blurb:Sometimes our best teachers are the ones we least expect.When Patti Smith’s first child was born with Down syndrome, her world shifted overnight. What began as fear and uncertainty became a lifelong education in love, patience, and the power of perspective. Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is the heartwarming true story of how one remarkable son became his mother’s greatest teacher.
Told through 24 unforgettable “lessons,” this deeply moving narrative reveals how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. From moments of heartbreak to bursts of humor and joy, Patti shares how her son Christopher—affectionately known as “Professor Higgins”—transformed her understanding of success, purpose, and unconditional love.
More than a parenting guide, this is an invitation to see the beauty in imperfection and the grace in letting go. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life’s detours, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins will lift your heart, open your mind, and remind you that the unexpected may be your greatest gift.
This book addresses the emotional exhaustion and self-doubt many parents experience when facing unexpected life challenges—particularly raising a child with unique needs. It gently replaces fear, guilt, and the need for control with peace, perspective, and self-compassion.
This inspirational memoir is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the limitless lessons love can teach.
My Thoughts:
The stories of Chris Higgins are absolutely delightful. This is a heartwarming read that made me laugh several times, but also was a great reminder to open my eyes to the people around me. It gave insightful perspective from someone raising a child with Down syndrome, but also a lot of great advice on parenting any child.The unfolding growth of love is inspiring. It’s a beautiful demonstration of the power of acceptance, determination and love. I highly recommend this book.
Thanks NetGalley, Independently Published and Author Patti Smith for the complimentary copy of "Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#PattiSmith (Author & Publisher)
#UnexpextedLessonsFromProfessorHiggins
⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 22, 2025
Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is a heartfelt, honest, and deeply moving memoir that offers wisdom far beyond its pages. Patti Smith shares her lifelong journey as the mother of Chris Higgins with warmth, humor, and vulnerability, revealing how what first felt like a life-altering hardship became a profound source of perspective, growth, and unconditional love.
Structured around the clever and endearing metaphor of her son as “Professor Higgins,” Smith organizes her lessons into stages of learning that mirror an academic journey. This framework gives the memoir both clarity and charm, allowing each chapter to focus on a distinct moment of insight sometimes humorous, sometimes heartbreaking, always sincere.
What makes this book especially powerful is its emotional presence. Smith does not shy away from the realities of single parenting, caregiving, exhaustion, or societal discrimination, yet the story never becomes heavy-handed or preachy. Instead, the narrative invites readers into lived moments that feel immediate and real, making the lessons resonate naturally rather than didactically.
The memoir is not solely for parents of children with disabilities. It is for anyone open to learning about resilience, compassion, and the quiet strength found in everyday acts of love. Smith’s storytelling reminds us that wisdom often comes from unexpected teachers, and that humanity is richer when we learn to see value through a wider lens.
Uplifting, emotionally grounded, and written straight from the heart, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is an inspiring read that lingers long after the final page.
Structured around the clever and endearing metaphor of her son as “Professor Higgins,” Smith organizes her lessons into stages of learning that mirror an academic journey. This framework gives the memoir both clarity and charm, allowing each chapter to focus on a distinct moment of insight sometimes humorous, sometimes heartbreaking, always sincere.
What makes this book especially powerful is its emotional presence. Smith does not shy away from the realities of single parenting, caregiving, exhaustion, or societal discrimination, yet the story never becomes heavy-handed or preachy. Instead, the narrative invites readers into lived moments that feel immediate and real, making the lessons resonate naturally rather than didactically.
The memoir is not solely for parents of children with disabilities. It is for anyone open to learning about resilience, compassion, and the quiet strength found in everyday acts of love. Smith’s storytelling reminds us that wisdom often comes from unexpected teachers, and that humanity is richer when we learn to see value through a wider lens.
Uplifting, emotionally grounded, and written straight from the heart, Unexpected Lessons from Professor Higgins is an inspiring read that lingers long after the final page.
March 7, 2026
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕.𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒊 𝑺𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒉’𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑫𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒔𝒚𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒆, 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕. 𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒔 𝒇𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆. 𝑼𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑳𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒓 𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓’𝒔 𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒓.
I love the title of this book, so let me introduce you to professor Higgins... Chris (or Dennis for a while!)..
Written by his Mum, this is described as
24 unforgettable “lessons,” with deeply moving narrative revealing how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. ...
In a nutshell this is the diary of a Mama of a boy with a heart as big as the world!! A mama who's raised a child with Trisomy 21 also referred to as Down Syndrome.
Patti takes us on a journey starting in 1979 when Chris was born in an era still shrouded in unawareness and judgement, she has taken all the optimistic elements of being a special needs and shared them in these pages.
As a mother of a child with special needs, I could appreciate so many parts of this books. I always say my daughter has made me a better person.
Theres a lot to love in this book, I chuckled often ❤️ Chris is a gorgeous character to get to know.
I love the title of this book, so let me introduce you to professor Higgins... Chris (or Dennis for a while!)..
Written by his Mum, this is described as
24 unforgettable “lessons,” with deeply moving narrative revealing how life’s biggest challenges can become our most profound teachers. ...
In a nutshell this is the diary of a Mama of a boy with a heart as big as the world!! A mama who's raised a child with Trisomy 21 also referred to as Down Syndrome.
Patti takes us on a journey starting in 1979 when Chris was born in an era still shrouded in unawareness and judgement, she has taken all the optimistic elements of being a special needs and shared them in these pages.
As a mother of a child with special needs, I could appreciate so many parts of this books. I always say my daughter has made me a better person.
Theres a lot to love in this book, I chuckled often ❤️ Chris is a gorgeous character to get to know.
April 3, 2026
This book completely stole my heart. I went into it not having a personal connection to raising a child with special needs, and yet I found it so deeply relatable in ways I didn’t expect.
Patti Smith writes with such honesty, warmth, and quiet strength. The lessons woven throughout the story feel universal—about love, patience, perspective, and finding joy in places you never anticipated. I found myself tearing up (happy tears!) so many times, completely moved by the small, meaningful moments that felt so real and raw.
Professor Higgins is unforgettable, and the journey is both emotional and uplifting without ever feeling heavy. It’s one of those books that gently shifts how you see the world and reminds you what really matters.
This was beautiful, heartfelt, and incredibly impactful. I loved every minute of it—and it will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you Net Galley for the audio ARC!
Patti Smith writes with such honesty, warmth, and quiet strength. The lessons woven throughout the story feel universal—about love, patience, perspective, and finding joy in places you never anticipated. I found myself tearing up (happy tears!) so many times, completely moved by the small, meaningful moments that felt so real and raw.
Professor Higgins is unforgettable, and the journey is both emotional and uplifting without ever feeling heavy. It’s one of those books that gently shifts how you see the world and reminds you what really matters.
This was beautiful, heartfelt, and incredibly impactful. I loved every minute of it—and it will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you Net Galley for the audio ARC!
January 11, 2026
I received this book for free as a Goodreads giveaway.
A memoir of the joys - and the struggles - of raising a child with Down syndrome, told via a series of lessons the author learned from her son. The lessons were mostly about letting go of her own expectations and allowing Chris to move, learn, and live on his own terms. Sometimes those lessons have to be learned over and over again, but the result is a happier, more joyful life for all.
I enjoyed reading about Chris and his ability to spread happiness to those around him. Having each chapter depict a particular lesson made it seem a little repetitive after a while as the big lesson was how much there was to be gained by letting Chris be Chris, whether he was the star of the show, the friendliest guy in the store, or the world’s biggest 45-year-old Santa fan (or wrestling fan!)
A memoir of the joys - and the struggles - of raising a child with Down syndrome, told via a series of lessons the author learned from her son. The lessons were mostly about letting go of her own expectations and allowing Chris to move, learn, and live on his own terms. Sometimes those lessons have to be learned over and over again, but the result is a happier, more joyful life for all.
I enjoyed reading about Chris and his ability to spread happiness to those around him. Having each chapter depict a particular lesson made it seem a little repetitive after a while as the big lesson was how much there was to be gained by letting Chris be Chris, whether he was the star of the show, the friendliest guy in the store, or the world’s biggest 45-year-old Santa fan (or wrestling fan!)
January 20, 2026
This memoir was written by a lawyer who is the mother of a first-born son, Chris, with Down syndrome. Ms. Smith celebrates all that her son has taught her, and chronicles the joys and struggles of life with a special needs child. At times Ms. Smith’s own expectations for her son clashed with Chris’s own preferences, clashes that amplified as Chris grew older, but she ultimately learned that letting Chris, with his outsized, joyful personality, at least partially steer his own destiny made life better for him, her, and the rest of the family (three later daughter and her late sister’s older sons). She was married to Chris’s father, who abandoned his family, and then to another man, but she ultimately raised her family as a single mother and put herself through law school.
There is much to be admired in Ms. Smith’s story, but this book was self-published and really could have benefited from an editor. At times it was quite repetitive. Three and a half stars.
Thanks to Goodreads and Ms. Smith for offering this book in a giveaway, which I was pleased to win.
There is much to be admired in Ms. Smith’s story, but this book was self-published and really could have benefited from an editor. At times it was quite repetitive. Three and a half stars.
Thanks to Goodreads and Ms. Smith for offering this book in a giveaway, which I was pleased to win.
April 10, 2026
Uplifting story of a young man’s impact on his family and the wider world. I’m glad things have changed very much the better for people with Downs Syndrome since Chris was born. But there is still a long way to go. When I teach about mutations I always end saying - we all have mutations, visible or not, celebrate difference.
Those differences mean we all see the world in a different light, we all have something unique and positive to share with ourselves and others. Everyone deserves our individual respect.
Thank you to Two Octave Publishing and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given,
Those differences mean we all see the world in a different light, we all have something unique and positive to share with ourselves and others. Everyone deserves our individual respect.
Thank you to Two Octave Publishing and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given,
September 8, 2024
Smith's “Unexpected Lessons" was an unexpected delight. The book is packed with laugh-out-loud moments and deeply moving anecdotes about the author’s journey raising her special-needs son. Through her experiences, Smith offers powerful life lessons that are sure to transform you. I especially appreciated her portrayal of Christopher, whose remarkable Emotional IQ offers readers a fresh perspective on the world. If you're in need of a heartwarming read, grab a copy of Smith’s debut. A chapter a day is sure to put a smile on your face.
December 19, 2025
A mother of a Downs syndrome child tells of the lessens she has learned from him during her lifetime. At first she was excited and nervous to be a new mother and then she was nervous and anxious to learn that her son had Downs syndrome. Doctors were suggesting that she put him in an institution. She didn't listen to them. She raised him and 5 other children as a single parent and tells how her son taught her that she was stronger than she knew; that you need patience, love, and understanding.
Audio book
Audio book
April 12, 2026
Disclaimer I received a free copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway - I received no compensation for this review.
This needs a second disclaimer, because I thought this book was by Patti Smith, the singer, punk rock icon and poetess, which it is not. I was about half a page in when it hit me, that this was not by the person I thought it was. Now, I could have put the book down right there and walked away, but I received a free Kindle edition and I thought that the author deserved respect by reading the book and writing a review.
Even though this was not the book I thought I was getting, it was still a worthy and enjoyable read. The writing was slightly clunky at times, meaning it could have used some editorial polish, but not enough to distract from the message and "story" of the book. What is the story, you ask? This book is a mother's love, between two covers, for her son who has Down's Syndrome. The author loving relates all of the life lessons that she and her family have learned from her amazing son, despite the nay sayers who were so prevalent in the early 70's. This is a story that talks about the abilities that her son does have and the accomplishments that he has made with the support of his family, friends and others.
Overall, I found this book to be thought provoking and eye opening for those who are not familiar with people who have Down's Syndrome, but I was fortunate to have folks in my life with this condition and I feel that I am not the target audience, per se. I think this book would be a good read for anyone who finds themselves in a position of having a baby with Down's and isn't sure where to turn or what to expect, or for other people who are looking at working with children with different challenges in an educational or social setting, or anyone who is looking to expand their horizons and learn. The author is mildly Christian in her outlook, which did not affect my enjoyment of the book, but my thoughts on some of the items presented are very different from hers.
This needs a second disclaimer, because I thought this book was by Patti Smith, the singer, punk rock icon and poetess, which it is not. I was about half a page in when it hit me, that this was not by the person I thought it was. Now, I could have put the book down right there and walked away, but I received a free Kindle edition and I thought that the author deserved respect by reading the book and writing a review.
Even though this was not the book I thought I was getting, it was still a worthy and enjoyable read. The writing was slightly clunky at times, meaning it could have used some editorial polish, but not enough to distract from the message and "story" of the book. What is the story, you ask? This book is a mother's love, between two covers, for her son who has Down's Syndrome. The author loving relates all of the life lessons that she and her family have learned from her amazing son, despite the nay sayers who were so prevalent in the early 70's. This is a story that talks about the abilities that her son does have and the accomplishments that he has made with the support of his family, friends and others.
Overall, I found this book to be thought provoking and eye opening for those who are not familiar with people who have Down's Syndrome, but I was fortunate to have folks in my life with this condition and I feel that I am not the target audience, per se. I think this book would be a good read for anyone who finds themselves in a position of having a baby with Down's and isn't sure where to turn or what to expect, or for other people who are looking at working with children with different challenges in an educational or social setting, or anyone who is looking to expand their horizons and learn. The author is mildly Christian in her outlook, which did not affect my enjoyment of the book, but my thoughts on some of the items presented are very different from hers.
April 2, 2026
This was a beautiful memoir filled with love, hope and joy. How her son with Down syndrome, taught her many amazing lessons on life. It’s a beautiful story.
January 29, 2026
A heartwarming memoir of unconditional love and acceptance. The stories were heartfelt, honest and full of happiness despite hardship.
I enjoyed the audiobook which is narrated well by the author's daughter, Tara Janae Smith.
I enjoyed the audiobook which is narrated well by the author's daughter, Tara Janae Smith.
April 3, 2026
Thank you for sharing your family’s story. It truly reflects what unconditional love looks like. It was heartwarming to learn about your family’s ups and downs, how you overcame difficult moments together, and how deeply you embrace love.
Tara Janae Smith did a wonderful job narrating the story, capturing Patti Smith, Chris’s mother, and the book's authors’ perspective while also effectively bringing Chris’s voice to life.
** Thank you, NetGalley, Two Octaves Publishing, and Patti Smith, for an audio ARC copy of ‘Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins’.
Tara Janae Smith did a wonderful job narrating the story, capturing Patti Smith, Chris’s mother, and the book's authors’ perspective while also effectively bringing Chris’s voice to life.
** Thank you, NetGalley, Two Octaves Publishing, and Patti Smith, for an audio ARC copy of ‘Unexpected Lessons From Professor Higgins’.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews