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Iris Grace
Ever since we came home with Thula, this precious magical kitten has cast a spell over Iris. They sit beside each other as Iris paints, and new doorways to communication have been opened, doors we had previously feared might be locked forever.
Iris Grace is six years old and severely autistic. For the first few years of her life, she barely communicated at all - she hardly ever looked up when her parents walked into a room, she rarely smiled or spoke. Her mother Arabella despaired - Iris seemed to be trapped in her own world, unreachable.
Then one day the family decided to get a cat, Thula, with whom Iris had an immediate affinity. She appeared to open up and communicate with Thula in a way that she hadn't done before. The little girl who seemed to be lost in her own world slowly blossomed. Iris is an extraordinarily gifted artist who sees the world in a profoundly vivid and visceral way, and with Thula by her side, she will sit and paint for hours.
This book isn't the story of a genius or child prodigy (although Iris is almost certainly both of those things), this is the story of how a remarkable bond between a cat and a child saved a family.
Beautifully written, readers will be spellbound by the story of Iris Grace and her devoted pet cat Thula.
Iris Grace is six years old and severely autistic. For the first few years of her life, she barely communicated at all - she hardly ever looked up when her parents walked into a room, she rarely smiled or spoke. Her mother Arabella despaired - Iris seemed to be trapped in her own world, unreachable.
Then one day the family decided to get a cat, Thula, with whom Iris had an immediate affinity. She appeared to open up and communicate with Thula in a way that she hadn't done before. The little girl who seemed to be lost in her own world slowly blossomed. Iris is an extraordinarily gifted artist who sees the world in a profoundly vivid and visceral way, and with Thula by her side, she will sit and paint for hours.
This book isn't the story of a genius or child prodigy (although Iris is almost certainly both of those things), this is the story of how a remarkable bond between a cat and a child saved a family.
Beautifully written, readers will be spellbound by the story of Iris Grace and her devoted pet cat Thula.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published March 22, 2016
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1549 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
May 23, 2019
De uma forma intimista, Arabella introduz-nos no mundo muito peculiar da sua menina que sofre de Transtorno do Espectro Autista. O médico sentenciou o diagnóstico não sendo capaz de dar aos pais a esperança de que eles tanto precisavam.
O autismo é um transtorno neurológico altamente variável. Sem cura.
As terapias são muitas, os resustados dispersos. A informação é imensa, as conclusões, muitas das vezes, inconclusivas. Existem padrões comportamentais equiparáveis, mas cada caso é um caso.
Mediante este diagnóstico demolidor, Arabelle aplica-se de alma e coração e com o seu instinto maternal, aliada a toda a informação de que se vai munindo, explora todas as possibilidades e por tentativa erro, tenta chegar ao âmago da Íris e fazê-la desabrochar.
Apercebemo-nos que o seu talento na área da fotografia a dota de uma perceção visual mais acutilante do que a rodeia. A sensibilidade para a natureza versus animais também contribuem para compreender melhor onde se refugia a sua preciosa filha. Num trabalho contínuo, árduo, de paciência e confiança, estimulando as potencialidades e auxiliando de formas adaptadas de comunicação e interação, conseguiu ler melhor os seus comportamentos e expressões, e até de prever e actuar em alturas chave.
Caminhava na dúvida cheia de certezas.
Tinha confiança no amanhã, aceitando as vitórias e/ou derrotas de ontem.
Derrubava obstáculos, puxava pela criatividade máxima da menina, observava, estudava, inovava e tinha a arrogância de acreditar. Era isso que a movia.
As etapas bem sucedidas eram inevitavelmente fruto do seu amor incondicional e disponibilidade total. Este comprometimento e o seu suporte familiar foram fundamentais.
A gata Thula é um prodígio! Deveria ter direito às setes vidas de que rezam os provérbios! É de uma sensabilidade extrasensorial absolutamente extraordinária e parece ter um Doutoramento nesta área tal como se depreende da forma como interagia com Íris. De um valor inestimável!
O amor, a perseverança, o trabalho, a paciência, a partilha, o desfrutar da natureza em todo o seu esplendor, a valorização das pequenas grandes coisas... um modo de vida! Para reflectir.
O autismo é um transtorno neurológico altamente variável. Sem cura.
As terapias são muitas, os resustados dispersos. A informação é imensa, as conclusões, muitas das vezes, inconclusivas. Existem padrões comportamentais equiparáveis, mas cada caso é um caso.
Mediante este diagnóstico demolidor, Arabelle aplica-se de alma e coração e com o seu instinto maternal, aliada a toda a informação de que se vai munindo, explora todas as possibilidades e por tentativa erro, tenta chegar ao âmago da Íris e fazê-la desabrochar.
Apercebemo-nos que o seu talento na área da fotografia a dota de uma perceção visual mais acutilante do que a rodeia. A sensibilidade para a natureza versus animais também contribuem para compreender melhor onde se refugia a sua preciosa filha. Num trabalho contínuo, árduo, de paciência e confiança, estimulando as potencialidades e auxiliando de formas adaptadas de comunicação e interação, conseguiu ler melhor os seus comportamentos e expressões, e até de prever e actuar em alturas chave.
Caminhava na dúvida cheia de certezas.
Tinha confiança no amanhã, aceitando as vitórias e/ou derrotas de ontem.
Derrubava obstáculos, puxava pela criatividade máxima da menina, observava, estudava, inovava e tinha a arrogância de acreditar. Era isso que a movia.
As etapas bem sucedidas eram inevitavelmente fruto do seu amor incondicional e disponibilidade total. Este comprometimento e o seu suporte familiar foram fundamentais.
A gata Thula é um prodígio! Deveria ter direito às setes vidas de que rezam os provérbios! É de uma sensabilidade extrasensorial absolutamente extraordinária e parece ter um Doutoramento nesta área tal como se depreende da forma como interagia com Íris. De um valor inestimável!
O amor, a perseverança, o trabalho, a paciência, a partilha, o desfrutar da natureza em todo o seu esplendor, a valorização das pequenas grandes coisas... um modo de vida! Para reflectir.
May 6, 2017
There are many ways to enjoy this book, but in my own case, I think I enjoyed it most as an art and photography book, into which I could dip to read the story of Iris's parents' struggle to understand their lovely daughter, who has autism. Art turns out to be a source of great delight for Iris, and the book is full of her paintings, which are gorgeous. They're the sort of paintings you can spend time contemplating and walk away refreshed. And Carter-Johnson's photos of Iris are similarly beautiful. Iris appears as an enchanting child, curious about the world around her, delighting the green-and-gentle English countryside.
The text is fine, too: you definitely get a sense of the two-steps-forward, one-step-back journey that's dealing with a child who's not typical. Carter-Johnson has great instincts, but the best instincts in the world can't be right all the time, and when a child has special needs, it's exhausting. But the text is by no means a downer--on the contrary, it's heartening to read how much Carter-Johnson loves her daughter and how committed she is to finding a way to help Iris deal with an uncompromising world while respecting her daughter's sensitivities.
It may just be my own flaws, but I can't help feeling just a touch vicariously resentful on behalf of all the parents of kids with autism who don't have quite the resources that Iris's parents do. The parents of autistic children whom I know have all the exhaustion that Carter-Johnson describes, but also desperate fears about losing their jobs, paying bills, and obtaining even hints of the sorts of services that Iris's parents appear to obtain effortlessly. That said, a lot of the breakthroughs and good developments that Iris's family experience come about because Carter-Johnson pays close attention to her daughter, and that's something that's open to anybody. And, even if not everyone can afford special music lessons and multiple attempts at pets and a remodeled play area, probably anyone can take inspiration from these ideas and scale them to their own budgets.
All in all, an enjoyable, beautiful book that I'm very grateful to have received through the Goodreads giveaway program. I hope Iris continues to flourish as she grows.
The text is fine, too: you definitely get a sense of the two-steps-forward, one-step-back journey that's dealing with a child who's not typical. Carter-Johnson has great instincts, but the best instincts in the world can't be right all the time, and when a child has special needs, it's exhausting. But the text is by no means a downer--on the contrary, it's heartening to read how much Carter-Johnson loves her daughter and how committed she is to finding a way to help Iris deal with an uncompromising world while respecting her daughter's sensitivities.
It may just be my own flaws, but I can't help feeling just a touch vicariously resentful on behalf of all the parents of kids with autism who don't have quite the resources that Iris's parents do. The parents of autistic children whom I know have all the exhaustion that Carter-Johnson describes, but also desperate fears about losing their jobs, paying bills, and obtaining even hints of the sorts of services that Iris's parents appear to obtain effortlessly. That said, a lot of the breakthroughs and good developments that Iris's family experience come about because Carter-Johnson pays close attention to her daughter, and that's something that's open to anybody. And, even if not everyone can afford special music lessons and multiple attempts at pets and a remodeled play area, probably anyone can take inspiration from these ideas and scale them to their own budgets.
All in all, an enjoyable, beautiful book that I'm very grateful to have received through the Goodreads giveaway program. I hope Iris continues to flourish as she grows.
March 23, 2017
(chronique en français ci-dessous)
Once upon a time there was an unusual little girl, born with a very special gift. The gift to see the wonders of the world, to find beauty in the most insignificant little things, the gift to relish in colors, music, nature.
But the little girl wasn't quite made for this world, which could hurt her with its noices, its smells, its changes, its insistance to treat her like an usual little girl - whom she was not.
She wanted so much to prove her love for the world, but it was very hard, very painful, and could have been hopeless.
But fortunately the little girl, this very special little girl, wasn't alone in this beautiful and terrible world. She had a father, and a mother. There weren't unusual as the little girl was, but they were kind, courageous, and clever. And if they didn't understood their little girl, they understood that she was unusual and saw that she suffered, and that even if the world often hurt her she still loved it and wanted to be part of it.
It took time, and patience, and love, and help, and benevolence, and peace, and beauty, and a lot of efforts from all parts, but day by day, the little girl learned to handle the beautiful and terrible world, and her parents learned, just a little bit (but a very important little bit) to see the world as she saw it.
It was very hard for all of them. Sometimes the little girl would cry, kick, hide away to be alone, away from people and their so very strange demands. But some days, beauty was there, everywhere: in the garden, in the sky, in the changing waters, in the colors that the little girl loved to make alive on a large piece of paper. And one day, when life was still so difficult for the little girl and her family, somebody else arrived at home. A new member of the family, a small someone, who had a tiny body with huge paws, splendid whiskers, soft fur, and no human langage but all the understanding who lacked the usual persons around the unusual little girl.
Very soon this new person, who was a cat, and who was named Thula, became a part of the family and the very special friend of the little girl. She wasn't either quite of this world, and knew how not to speak to the little girl. Thula thought that the little girl's interests, in small things, in nature, books, colors and music, were quite interesting too. She showed the little girl that having baths were nice, that visiting the countryside on a bike was fun, and that to wake up in the night wasn't so dreadful.
Sometimes, Thula the cat and Iris the little girl (because the little girl was called Iris, like some other little girl I know very well, but this is another story, for another day) couldn't keep together. But then it didn't matter much, as the two knew that they could spent a little time apart, loving the world, and be reunited, for a new day in the wonderful beautiful world...
I love this book, beautifully written and illustrated, so touching and true.
(The natural sense of beauty and wonder of the author frequently reminded me of a favorite English writer, Victoria Clayton, whose clever and witty novels I love).
I've learned to understand more what autism was and, for importantly, what it wasn't.
A wonderful read and, we can hope, a resounding testimony about how to raise and love a child born with autism, and how to nurture their special gifts, so unusual but also so wonderful - and even useful for the rest of us.
***********************************************
J'ai lu ce livre magnifique il y a quelques mois, dans sa version originale anglaise. Je suivais depuis quelques temps la page facebook d'Iris Grace, une incroyable enfant artiste et ai été ravie de pouvoir acheter et lire ce témoignage, celui de sa mère, Arabelle Carter-Johnson.
Je suivais de près la parution de la traduction française, qui n'a pas été très précoce, ce livre étant déjà traduit dans un grand nombre de langues ! Mais qu'importe, il est là !
Je possède une version rigide grand format, mais je pense que ce livre broché reprend l'intégralité des superbes illustrations couleurs de mon exemplaire - un petit bijou (photos ci-jointes). Celles-ci sont de trois types : les photographies de l'auteur, photographe professionnelle, des photos pleines de poésie, d'harmonie et de vie. Des adorables dessins représentants des scènes de la vie quotidienne de la petite Iris et de son amie chat, Thula et enfin des photos des peintures d'iris Grace.
Iris est un artiste d'un talent qui dépasse son age, un peintre hors du commun qui exprime, par le biais de la peinture et de techniques variées, son éblouissante vision du monde. Une vision qui nous échappe, une vision merveilleuse mais aussi terrible : Iris est autiste.
L'auteur raconte sa vie, commençant par les prémisses, sa rencontre avec le père d'Iris, leurs voyages à travers le monde, son amour des chevaux, leur projet de rester vivre en France où ils pensaient être installés, puis son retour en Angleterre après une grave chute de cheval qui la pousse à revoir ses projets.
Dès sa naissance Iris est différente, ses parents le sentent bien. Mais il faudra des années d'insistance, de recherches acharnées, pour que le diagnostic soit posé. Dans ce livre nous sommes conviés au quotidien d'Arabella et de son enfant (le père, quoique attentif, patient, compréhensif et aimant, travaille beaucoup), un quotidien épuisé et épuisant. Iris souffre dans ce monde qui l'agresse sans cesse mais qu'elle adore pourtant, pour la beauté de sa nature, les livres, la musique. Mais elle dort mal et son équilibre est instable, renforcé par des rituels incessants et compliqués, et sa mère souffre d'épuisement chronique.
Arabella ne lâche pourtant pas prise, désolée de voir son enfant souffrir tant parfois, de ne pas comprendre le monde vu par Iris, rassemblant son énergie en miette pour chercher, tâtonner, trouver ce qui peut aider sa petite fille.
Le parcours des parents d'enfants autistes est bien dur et solitaire !
Mais Iris a de la chance dans son malheur. Si une mauvaise fée s'est penchée sur son berceau en la condamnant à souffrir de si nombreux stimuli sensoriels, du poids des regards sur elle, des demandes de contact physique, si pénibles pour elle, une bonne fée est venue ensuite, avec sa baguette magique. Iris a des parents extraordinaires, prêts à tout pour elle, d'une patience, d'un amour et d'une compréhension sans limites et surtout, ont les capacités nécessaires à trouver comment aider leur enfant.
Arabella cherche, cherche, se creuse la tête, essaie, essaie encore. Elle tombe de fatigue en permanence (Iris ne veut qu'elle et le travail d'Arabella exige qu'elle passe ses week-ends à photographier des mariages) mais ne lâche pas prise. Elle tente par tous les moyens de trouver ce qui apaise et épanouit la petite Iris et tente de l'habituer progressivement (avec tant d'échecs !) à la vie telle que nous la concevons comme normale.
C'est ainsi qu'elle propose de quoi peindre à sa petite fille de 4 ans et découvre avec stupeur son talent. Peindre apaise et épanouit Iris et sa mère lui installe un petit atelier à demeure dans la cuisine et un autre à l'extérieur, dès que le temps le permet. Ses toiles commencent à se vendre, et Iris se déclare heureuse de voir ses oeuvres partir habiter dans d'autres maisons.
Iris est une enfant passionnée. Elle adore la nature ! Elle l'aime passionnément, comme une petite dryade, de tous ses sens. A travers son regard on redécouvre la texture du bois, la caresse de la brise, les jeux de l'onde... La vision de la campagne anglaise, à travers la plume de l'auteur, ses photographies et les peintures d'Iris Grace, est magnifique de quiétude et de beauté.
Tout n'est pas facile pour autant. Alors qu'Iris progresse dans certains domaines, elle régresse dans d'autres. En particulier, au moment de l'histoire où arrive l'extraordinaire petite personne féline qu'est Thula, Iris ne supporte plus les bains, ni les douches. La toilette quotidienne est devenue un cauchemar, elle qui aimait tant l'eau ! Sa mère se désespère, les journées sont si compliquées, et les nuits agitées et écourtées.
Iris fait deux pas en avant, un pas en arrière, parfois trois.
Pourtant elle fait des efforts terribles, elle souffre de pas pouvoir communiquer avec ses proches et de se sentir si souvent agressée par un monde dont elle aime tant de choses !
Ses parents ont ainsi l'idée de prendre un animal. Les enfants autistes lient en effet parfois des relations intenses et privilégiées avec des animaux de toutes espèces et Arabelle pense d'abord à prendre un chien, un labrador. Hélas le chiot, trop agité, apeure la personne paisible et contemplative qu'est Iris et le projet est repoussé. Jusqu'au jour où Thula, chaton Main Coon, arrive à la maison...
Les chats de cette race sont réputés pour certaines caractéristiques, que l'on retrouve de manière exceptionnellement marquées chez Thula, mais qui ne sont pas systématiques. Je connais de nombreux chats de cette race qui sont aussi craintifs ou méfiants que certains chats européens. Ne pensez donc pas retrouver la personnalité unique de Thula chez tous les Main Coon, pour commencer certains détestent l'eau !
Oui, parce que Thula aime les bains. Elle plonge toute de fourrure vêtue dans la baignoire, chaque soir, et c'est ainsi qu'Iris retrouve le bonheur des bains ! Leur complicité ne s'arrête pas là. Thula trouve la compagnie d'Iris parfaite : calme, douce, passionnée des choses importantes, comme le jardin, les couleurs des peintures, les petits jouets. Thula aime l'accompagner partout, s'installer sur le bord du trampoline, inspecter la peinture en cours, se blottir contre elle pour regarder des livres tranquillement. Elle aime même le vélo ! Équipée d'un petit harnais elle accompagne son amie partout, paisible et enthousiaste.
Et grâce à elle, Iris dort enfin. Quand elle se réveille la nuit, au lieu d'exiger que sa mère vienne la chercher et l'emmène en bas jouer, elle caresse son petit chat, joue avec le jouet que Thula vient de lui apporter et se rendort.
Cette relation est terriblement émouvante, magique presque. Arrabella parle de Thula comme d'une amie, une amie très chère qui est venue sauver leur famille ! Cette fascinante relation n'est pourtant pas si étonnante quand on connait les capacités de communication non verbales des animaux et leur acceptation totale, sans jugement ni attentes, de ce que nous sommes !
Le parcours d'Iris continue, toujours difficile (comment scolariser une enfant si différente, si douée, si sensible ?) mais dans la bonne voie. Peu à peu elle s'ouvre au monde, accepte et initie les contacts avec ses proches (père, grands-parents), apprend à lire, commence à parler.
Elle peint toujours, des peintures gaies et colorées, des oeuvres impressionnistes pleines de vie et de lumière. Sa passion pour la musique ne faiblit pas, ses goûts sont sûrs et atypiques, le violon la transporte.
Le livre se finit sur une note optimiste : le couple souhaite se rendre à un mariage de la famille proche en Suède et Arabella prépare le terrain de ce premier voyage d'Iris des mois à l'avance, multipliant les expériences ciblées. Le voyage est un succès, malgré quelques petits hics.
Iris ne sera jamais comme tout le monde, mais elle est sortie de cette prison que peut être l'autisme, réussissant par son talent à créer une alliance avec le monde. Grâce aux efforts incessants de ses proches et la présence unique de Thula à ses côtés elle peut s'épanouir et exprimer son intelligence, d'une vivacité et d'une créativité incroyables.
Ce type de témoignages, de parents d'enfants différents, sont des cadeaux du ciel : ils nous montrent combien nos attentes de la normalité sont vaines et injustes, et comment la beauté et la grandeur s'expriment n'importe où, et que la diversité des humains est leur principale richesse.
Le lecteur apprend beaucoup de ce livre. Comme les parents d'Iris, il apprend à comprendre, au moins un peu, la façon dont les autistes ressentent notre monde, avec des sens exacerbés qui peuvent les faire souffrir. Le lecteur apprend aussi à réviser son jugement, à ne pas affubler d'étiquettes incohérentes une personne si différente, à ne pas interpréter trop vite des comportements.
Un livre aussi magnifique par son fond que par sa forme, que je vous recommande chaudement !
Once upon a time there was an unusual little girl, born with a very special gift. The gift to see the wonders of the world, to find beauty in the most insignificant little things, the gift to relish in colors, music, nature.
But the little girl wasn't quite made for this world, which could hurt her with its noices, its smells, its changes, its insistance to treat her like an usual little girl - whom she was not.
She wanted so much to prove her love for the world, but it was very hard, very painful, and could have been hopeless.
But fortunately the little girl, this very special little girl, wasn't alone in this beautiful and terrible world. She had a father, and a mother. There weren't unusual as the little girl was, but they were kind, courageous, and clever. And if they didn't understood their little girl, they understood that she was unusual and saw that she suffered, and that even if the world often hurt her she still loved it and wanted to be part of it.
It took time, and patience, and love, and help, and benevolence, and peace, and beauty, and a lot of efforts from all parts, but day by day, the little girl learned to handle the beautiful and terrible world, and her parents learned, just a little bit (but a very important little bit) to see the world as she saw it.
It was very hard for all of them. Sometimes the little girl would cry, kick, hide away to be alone, away from people and their so very strange demands. But some days, beauty was there, everywhere: in the garden, in the sky, in the changing waters, in the colors that the little girl loved to make alive on a large piece of paper. And one day, when life was still so difficult for the little girl and her family, somebody else arrived at home. A new member of the family, a small someone, who had a tiny body with huge paws, splendid whiskers, soft fur, and no human langage but all the understanding who lacked the usual persons around the unusual little girl.
Very soon this new person, who was a cat, and who was named Thula, became a part of the family and the very special friend of the little girl. She wasn't either quite of this world, and knew how not to speak to the little girl. Thula thought that the little girl's interests, in small things, in nature, books, colors and music, were quite interesting too. She showed the little girl that having baths were nice, that visiting the countryside on a bike was fun, and that to wake up in the night wasn't so dreadful.
Sometimes, Thula the cat and Iris the little girl (because the little girl was called Iris, like some other little girl I know very well, but this is another story, for another day) couldn't keep together. But then it didn't matter much, as the two knew that they could spent a little time apart, loving the world, and be reunited, for a new day in the wonderful beautiful world...
I love this book, beautifully written and illustrated, so touching and true.
(The natural sense of beauty and wonder of the author frequently reminded me of a favorite English writer, Victoria Clayton, whose clever and witty novels I love).
I've learned to understand more what autism was and, for importantly, what it wasn't.
A wonderful read and, we can hope, a resounding testimony about how to raise and love a child born with autism, and how to nurture their special gifts, so unusual but also so wonderful - and even useful for the rest of us.
***********************************************
J'ai lu ce livre magnifique il y a quelques mois, dans sa version originale anglaise. Je suivais depuis quelques temps la page facebook d'Iris Grace, une incroyable enfant artiste et ai été ravie de pouvoir acheter et lire ce témoignage, celui de sa mère, Arabelle Carter-Johnson.
Je suivais de près la parution de la traduction française, qui n'a pas été très précoce, ce livre étant déjà traduit dans un grand nombre de langues ! Mais qu'importe, il est là !
Je possède une version rigide grand format, mais je pense que ce livre broché reprend l'intégralité des superbes illustrations couleurs de mon exemplaire - un petit bijou (photos ci-jointes). Celles-ci sont de trois types : les photographies de l'auteur, photographe professionnelle, des photos pleines de poésie, d'harmonie et de vie. Des adorables dessins représentants des scènes de la vie quotidienne de la petite Iris et de son amie chat, Thula et enfin des photos des peintures d'iris Grace.
Iris est un artiste d'un talent qui dépasse son age, un peintre hors du commun qui exprime, par le biais de la peinture et de techniques variées, son éblouissante vision du monde. Une vision qui nous échappe, une vision merveilleuse mais aussi terrible : Iris est autiste.
L'auteur raconte sa vie, commençant par les prémisses, sa rencontre avec le père d'Iris, leurs voyages à travers le monde, son amour des chevaux, leur projet de rester vivre en France où ils pensaient être installés, puis son retour en Angleterre après une grave chute de cheval qui la pousse à revoir ses projets.
Dès sa naissance Iris est différente, ses parents le sentent bien. Mais il faudra des années d'insistance, de recherches acharnées, pour que le diagnostic soit posé. Dans ce livre nous sommes conviés au quotidien d'Arabella et de son enfant (le père, quoique attentif, patient, compréhensif et aimant, travaille beaucoup), un quotidien épuisé et épuisant. Iris souffre dans ce monde qui l'agresse sans cesse mais qu'elle adore pourtant, pour la beauté de sa nature, les livres, la musique. Mais elle dort mal et son équilibre est instable, renforcé par des rituels incessants et compliqués, et sa mère souffre d'épuisement chronique.
Arabella ne lâche pourtant pas prise, désolée de voir son enfant souffrir tant parfois, de ne pas comprendre le monde vu par Iris, rassemblant son énergie en miette pour chercher, tâtonner, trouver ce qui peut aider sa petite fille.
Le parcours des parents d'enfants autistes est bien dur et solitaire !
Mais Iris a de la chance dans son malheur. Si une mauvaise fée s'est penchée sur son berceau en la condamnant à souffrir de si nombreux stimuli sensoriels, du poids des regards sur elle, des demandes de contact physique, si pénibles pour elle, une bonne fée est venue ensuite, avec sa baguette magique. Iris a des parents extraordinaires, prêts à tout pour elle, d'une patience, d'un amour et d'une compréhension sans limites et surtout, ont les capacités nécessaires à trouver comment aider leur enfant.
Arabella cherche, cherche, se creuse la tête, essaie, essaie encore. Elle tombe de fatigue en permanence (Iris ne veut qu'elle et le travail d'Arabella exige qu'elle passe ses week-ends à photographier des mariages) mais ne lâche pas prise. Elle tente par tous les moyens de trouver ce qui apaise et épanouit la petite Iris et tente de l'habituer progressivement (avec tant d'échecs !) à la vie telle que nous la concevons comme normale.
C'est ainsi qu'elle propose de quoi peindre à sa petite fille de 4 ans et découvre avec stupeur son talent. Peindre apaise et épanouit Iris et sa mère lui installe un petit atelier à demeure dans la cuisine et un autre à l'extérieur, dès que le temps le permet. Ses toiles commencent à se vendre, et Iris se déclare heureuse de voir ses oeuvres partir habiter dans d'autres maisons.
Iris est une enfant passionnée. Elle adore la nature ! Elle l'aime passionnément, comme une petite dryade, de tous ses sens. A travers son regard on redécouvre la texture du bois, la caresse de la brise, les jeux de l'onde... La vision de la campagne anglaise, à travers la plume de l'auteur, ses photographies et les peintures d'Iris Grace, est magnifique de quiétude et de beauté.
Tout n'est pas facile pour autant. Alors qu'Iris progresse dans certains domaines, elle régresse dans d'autres. En particulier, au moment de l'histoire où arrive l'extraordinaire petite personne féline qu'est Thula, Iris ne supporte plus les bains, ni les douches. La toilette quotidienne est devenue un cauchemar, elle qui aimait tant l'eau ! Sa mère se désespère, les journées sont si compliquées, et les nuits agitées et écourtées.
Iris fait deux pas en avant, un pas en arrière, parfois trois.
Pourtant elle fait des efforts terribles, elle souffre de pas pouvoir communiquer avec ses proches et de se sentir si souvent agressée par un monde dont elle aime tant de choses !
Ses parents ont ainsi l'idée de prendre un animal. Les enfants autistes lient en effet parfois des relations intenses et privilégiées avec des animaux de toutes espèces et Arabelle pense d'abord à prendre un chien, un labrador. Hélas le chiot, trop agité, apeure la personne paisible et contemplative qu'est Iris et le projet est repoussé. Jusqu'au jour où Thula, chaton Main Coon, arrive à la maison...
Les chats de cette race sont réputés pour certaines caractéristiques, que l'on retrouve de manière exceptionnellement marquées chez Thula, mais qui ne sont pas systématiques. Je connais de nombreux chats de cette race qui sont aussi craintifs ou méfiants que certains chats européens. Ne pensez donc pas retrouver la personnalité unique de Thula chez tous les Main Coon, pour commencer certains détestent l'eau !
Oui, parce que Thula aime les bains. Elle plonge toute de fourrure vêtue dans la baignoire, chaque soir, et c'est ainsi qu'Iris retrouve le bonheur des bains ! Leur complicité ne s'arrête pas là. Thula trouve la compagnie d'Iris parfaite : calme, douce, passionnée des choses importantes, comme le jardin, les couleurs des peintures, les petits jouets. Thula aime l'accompagner partout, s'installer sur le bord du trampoline, inspecter la peinture en cours, se blottir contre elle pour regarder des livres tranquillement. Elle aime même le vélo ! Équipée d'un petit harnais elle accompagne son amie partout, paisible et enthousiaste.
Et grâce à elle, Iris dort enfin. Quand elle se réveille la nuit, au lieu d'exiger que sa mère vienne la chercher et l'emmène en bas jouer, elle caresse son petit chat, joue avec le jouet que Thula vient de lui apporter et se rendort.
Cette relation est terriblement émouvante, magique presque. Arrabella parle de Thula comme d'une amie, une amie très chère qui est venue sauver leur famille ! Cette fascinante relation n'est pourtant pas si étonnante quand on connait les capacités de communication non verbales des animaux et leur acceptation totale, sans jugement ni attentes, de ce que nous sommes !
Le parcours d'Iris continue, toujours difficile (comment scolariser une enfant si différente, si douée, si sensible ?) mais dans la bonne voie. Peu à peu elle s'ouvre au monde, accepte et initie les contacts avec ses proches (père, grands-parents), apprend à lire, commence à parler.
Elle peint toujours, des peintures gaies et colorées, des oeuvres impressionnistes pleines de vie et de lumière. Sa passion pour la musique ne faiblit pas, ses goûts sont sûrs et atypiques, le violon la transporte.
Le livre se finit sur une note optimiste : le couple souhaite se rendre à un mariage de la famille proche en Suède et Arabella prépare le terrain de ce premier voyage d'Iris des mois à l'avance, multipliant les expériences ciblées. Le voyage est un succès, malgré quelques petits hics.
Iris ne sera jamais comme tout le monde, mais elle est sortie de cette prison que peut être l'autisme, réussissant par son talent à créer une alliance avec le monde. Grâce aux efforts incessants de ses proches et la présence unique de Thula à ses côtés elle peut s'épanouir et exprimer son intelligence, d'une vivacité et d'une créativité incroyables.
Ce type de témoignages, de parents d'enfants différents, sont des cadeaux du ciel : ils nous montrent combien nos attentes de la normalité sont vaines et injustes, et comment la beauté et la grandeur s'expriment n'importe où, et que la diversité des humains est leur principale richesse.
Le lecteur apprend beaucoup de ce livre. Comme les parents d'Iris, il apprend à comprendre, au moins un peu, la façon dont les autistes ressentent notre monde, avec des sens exacerbés qui peuvent les faire souffrir. Le lecteur apprend aussi à réviser son jugement, à ne pas affubler d'étiquettes incohérentes une personne si différente, à ne pas interpréter trop vite des comportements.
Un livre aussi magnifique par son fond que par sa forme, que je vous recommande chaudement !
March 12, 2016
I've followed Iris Grace Painting on Facebook since a friend posted a video of this talented little girl painting. Iris lives in England and is on the severe end of the autism spectrum. During her first years, she had difficulty interacting at all and she was behind her peers in several skills. Frustrated with her inability to function in a preschool environment, her mother decided to work on teaching Iris at home and gradually exposing her to social activities. But, it was painting that offered the first breakthrough. Iris had a natural talent and painting made her happy. Gradually, she began to open up.
The second breakthrough came when the family adopted Thula, a Maine Coon kitten. Thula is an adventurous kitty who goes on bike and boat rides, climbs into the tub with Iris, helps Iris sleep by napping with her and curling up with her at night, and even goes swimming with her. Thula has helped calm Iris when she needed to be soothed and provided a friendly presence.
The book Iris Grace tells her story, beginning with her parents' first meeting and proceeding to the present. The author, Iris's mother, is a professional photographer and the book is absolutely beautiful, packed with gorgeous photos, paintings by Iris, and pencil illustrations at the opening of each chapter. While I do think the book suffered a bit from at least one first-time author flaw (the overuse of the word "so"), that single flaw and a couple of minor editing errors were the only problems I found. I enjoyed learning a bit about how a child with severe autism reacts physically. I knew some of the behaviors but not all and I found Carter-Johnson's teaching methods fascinating (but expensive -- sounded like she spent an awful lot of money on props for learning experiences).
I hope, more than anything, I've learned enough to know how to react if I'm ever in public when an autistic child has a meltdown and/or to be more understanding in a public venue. I found it particularly interesting learning about how Iris Grace reacts to music. Carter-Johnson has mentioned frustration with people who are not shy about saying their experience has been ruined by young Iris's movement and vocalization during concerts. While I can understand how they might feel and would never criticize parents in public (I had high-energy children and was occasionally criticized, myself; I keep my mouth shut), it's helpful to be educated about that type of behavior and why, when they take her out in public, they're actually being good parents, carefully exposing their child to challenging situations. It's far too easy to judge.
The second breakthrough came when the family adopted Thula, a Maine Coon kitten. Thula is an adventurous kitty who goes on bike and boat rides, climbs into the tub with Iris, helps Iris sleep by napping with her and curling up with her at night, and even goes swimming with her. Thula has helped calm Iris when she needed to be soothed and provided a friendly presence.
The book Iris Grace tells her story, beginning with her parents' first meeting and proceeding to the present. The author, Iris's mother, is a professional photographer and the book is absolutely beautiful, packed with gorgeous photos, paintings by Iris, and pencil illustrations at the opening of each chapter. While I do think the book suffered a bit from at least one first-time author flaw (the overuse of the word "so"), that single flaw and a couple of minor editing errors were the only problems I found. I enjoyed learning a bit about how a child with severe autism reacts physically. I knew some of the behaviors but not all and I found Carter-Johnson's teaching methods fascinating (but expensive -- sounded like she spent an awful lot of money on props for learning experiences).
I hope, more than anything, I've learned enough to know how to react if I'm ever in public when an autistic child has a meltdown and/or to be more understanding in a public venue. I found it particularly interesting learning about how Iris Grace reacts to music. Carter-Johnson has mentioned frustration with people who are not shy about saying their experience has been ruined by young Iris's movement and vocalization during concerts. While I can understand how they might feel and would never criticize parents in public (I had high-energy children and was occasionally criticized, myself; I keep my mouth shut), it's helpful to be educated about that type of behavior and why, when they take her out in public, they're actually being good parents, carefully exposing their child to challenging situations. It's far too easy to judge.
February 9, 2023
The title of the book is Iris Grace: How Thula the Cat Saved a Little Girl and Her Family. At least on my copy it is. I therefore expected to read a lot about Thula. On the contrary, Thula did not show up until page 219. That being said, I did enjoy the book. I so admire the mom's determination to help her little girl while being sensitive to Iris' needs, feelings, fears, etc. I believe I understand autism a bit more now and the challenges people with autism (as well as their families) face. It was inspiring that Arabella never gave up hope and kept trying new ideas even when she was exhausted in every way. It was uplifting to see so many of Iris' beautiful paintings included in the book. And, of course, it was fascinating how Thula the Cat was an enormous help.
October 19, 2017
Beautiful and so fascinating. From a mothers perspective this book perfectly tells the journey of a little girl, Iris and her struggles and achievements in dealing with autism.
This isn't a genre I would usually read and I expected the story to focus on Thula the cat but the emphasis on autism and the relationship Iris has with her family and Thula is uplifting.
This isn't a genre I would usually read and I expected the story to focus on Thula the cat but the emphasis on autism and the relationship Iris has with her family and Thula is uplifting.
February 4, 2020
This was a pretty good read about a little girl named Iris Grace who has autism and lives in the shire with her mom Arabella and father PJ and the cat that becomes her best friend. It is a heart-felt story about family that I reccomend to anyone that like memoirs about autism and family. Be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books/ebooks are sold.
March 13, 2017
Despite the title, the book is really not about Thula the cat. She is in the book, of course, and is an incredible companion and support for Iris, but she occupies only a small part of the narrative. The book is about Iris Grace, the author’s lovely daughter who is on the autistic spectrum, and all that was done to reach her and bring her into the loud, bright, fast moving world.
The book starts with Arabella and her husband and their life together before having Iris. Arabella at one point worked with training horses using a method that creates deep communication with the animals; they can be told what is wanted of them with small body movements when it’s done right. This may seem like an odd inclusion, but it’s important; Arabella’s ability to read body language turns out to be critical to the success of communicating with Iris.
After Iris is born and they realize she is not neurotypical, their lives are totally centered on her. Fortunately, both parents are able to work mainly from home, so Iris always has a parent with her, watching to find clues to what will allow them to communicate with her, and trying to interact. They spend a lot of time seeking information on Iris’s condition and trying various therapies. Their house is rearranged to give Iris maximum opportunities for exploration and expression. They must have spent a truckload of money on art supplies, therapists, and books. And it turned out to be worth it; Iris eventually started talking, and became able to tolerate crowds and go out into the world so she could enjoy music (very important to her) performances. And she discovered painting; she’d always loved working with art, but painting turned out to be her passion and forte. Her paintings remind me of the work of Impressionists, especially Monet. Many original paintings and prints have been sold.
And Thula? She’s proved to be a stabilizing force for Iris. When Iris is upset, she goes to her and maintains body contact, a firm reassurance. Before Thula arrived, Iris was terrified of taking a bath. Thula climbed right into the tub with Iris, and suddenly being immersed in water was acceptable, even enjoyable. Iris is her person, and she stays with her almost constantly, even at night- going to bed and to sleep is no longer a problem now that Thula is there to share her bed. She’s a natural service animal; no training was done and she was adopted as a young kitten.
It’s an amazing story, illustrated with line drawings, photographs (Arabella is a professional photographer), and Iris’s paintings.
The book starts with Arabella and her husband and their life together before having Iris. Arabella at one point worked with training horses using a method that creates deep communication with the animals; they can be told what is wanted of them with small body movements when it’s done right. This may seem like an odd inclusion, but it’s important; Arabella’s ability to read body language turns out to be critical to the success of communicating with Iris.
After Iris is born and they realize she is not neurotypical, their lives are totally centered on her. Fortunately, both parents are able to work mainly from home, so Iris always has a parent with her, watching to find clues to what will allow them to communicate with her, and trying to interact. They spend a lot of time seeking information on Iris’s condition and trying various therapies. Their house is rearranged to give Iris maximum opportunities for exploration and expression. They must have spent a truckload of money on art supplies, therapists, and books. And it turned out to be worth it; Iris eventually started talking, and became able to tolerate crowds and go out into the world so she could enjoy music (very important to her) performances. And she discovered painting; she’d always loved working with art, but painting turned out to be her passion and forte. Her paintings remind me of the work of Impressionists, especially Monet. Many original paintings and prints have been sold.
And Thula? She’s proved to be a stabilizing force for Iris. When Iris is upset, she goes to her and maintains body contact, a firm reassurance. Before Thula arrived, Iris was terrified of taking a bath. Thula climbed right into the tub with Iris, and suddenly being immersed in water was acceptable, even enjoyable. Iris is her person, and she stays with her almost constantly, even at night- going to bed and to sleep is no longer a problem now that Thula is there to share her bed. She’s a natural service animal; no training was done and she was adopted as a young kitten.
It’s an amazing story, illustrated with line drawings, photographs (Arabella is a professional photographer), and Iris’s paintings.
December 23, 2017
I won this book through Goodreads and would like to say thank you! This is a very original and beautiful book. It's a book about a young girl, Iris, who is on the autism spectrum and all the challenges, hopes, worries and milestones that the family experience on a daily basis. It is written by Iris' mother and you can feel the love, frustration, worry, joy and hope in every word. There is a beautiful sub-story about a pet cat who helps Iris grow and overcome many of her challenges. These sections are some of the most fun and lovely to read.
I couldn't rate this book 5 stars since I felt some of it was quite repetitive and there were moments where I just wanted the book to move forward more. But in general it is a lovely, hopeful, well-written book about a mother's love for her child. What the family, especially her mother, does to understand and help Iris, is truly phenomenal.
The book is also interspersed with gorgeous paintings that Iris created throughout her childhood. It really is quite astonishing. This book would be a great read for any parent, especially one whose child is on the autism spectrum. It could provide much hope and ideas for ways to understand what the child is feeling and going through and how to help them.
I couldn't rate this book 5 stars since I felt some of it was quite repetitive and there were moments where I just wanted the book to move forward more. But in general it is a lovely, hopeful, well-written book about a mother's love for her child. What the family, especially her mother, does to understand and help Iris, is truly phenomenal.
The book is also interspersed with gorgeous paintings that Iris created throughout her childhood. It really is quite astonishing. This book would be a great read for any parent, especially one whose child is on the autism spectrum. It could provide much hope and ideas for ways to understand what the child is feeling and going through and how to help them.
February 23, 2017
Um relato muito tocante sobre o autismo.
O entendimento, a adaptação, por parte dos pais e da família de Iris quando lhe é diagnosticado autismo.
A descoberta de um talento peculiar (a pintura) por parte desta menina. E a amizade extraordinária entre Iris e Thula, uma gatinha muito especial!
O entendimento, a adaptação, por parte dos pais e da família de Iris quando lhe é diagnosticado autismo.
A descoberta de um talento peculiar (a pintura) por parte desta menina. E a amizade extraordinária entre Iris e Thula, uma gatinha muito especial!
April 23, 2023
Such a good insight into what it’s like living with Autism from a very young age. I loved how there were lots of real life photographs used throughout the book and how it showed how much Autism can impact on family life. Pets are amazing therapy for people on the spectrum!
August 10, 2022
Dutch:
Dit wonderbaarlijke verhaal gaat over een jong meisje dat zwaar autistisch is. Haar moeder vertelt het verhaal vanaf de geboorte tot één van de hoogte punten in Iris leven. Het verhaal laat maar een korte periode van hun leven zien, aangezien er nog veel jaren zullen volgen. Maar het zijn waarschijnlijk wel een van de moeilijkste maar ook mooie jaren.
Dit is het eerste boek dat ik lees over een kind met autisme en het is ontzettend spraakmakend. Iris mag dan zwaar autistisch zijn, ze heeft een hoop kwaliteiten die terwijl ze opgroeit steeds duidelijker worden en zich ontwikkelen. Één groot talent is schilderen. Het boek staat vol met mooie prenten van de schilderijen die Iris heeft gemaakt. Onvoorstelbaar mooi gewoon!
Twee andere aspecten die sterk naar voren komen in het boek zijn dieren en muziek. Arabella Carter-Johnson, de moeder van Iris die het boek geschreven heeft, vertelt ook over haar jeugd, wat zij heeft meegemaakt en hoe zich dat reflecteert in haar leven als Iris er deel van uitmaakt.
Het verhaal met de prachtige schilderijen en foto's van Iris zorgen voor een uniciteit die ik nog nooit heb ervaren. Dit boek krijgt een ere plaats in mijn boekenkast en wordt er zeker nog eens bijgepakt om opnieuw te lezen.
English:
This remarkable story is about a young girl with autism. Her mother, Arabella Carter-Johnson, tells the story from the birth of her daughter all the way to one of the biggest highlights in Iris’ life. Even though the story shows only the first five years of Iris’ life, it seemed like a whole lifetime.
I’ve never read a book about an autistic child before, but this one is sensational. Iris may be autistic, she has a lot of qualities that evolve while she’s growing up. One of these talents is painting. This book is full of beautiful paintings Iris made since she was three years old. They are unbelievably wonderful!
Two other important aspects in the story are animals and music. Iris’ mother also tells about her youth, what she has experienced and how that’s reflecting in her life when Iris becomes a part of it.
This book with beautiful paintings and photo’s of Iris, make something unique. Something I’ve never experienced before. It’s going to be honored on my bookshelf and I’m sure I’ll be re-reading it many times in my life.
Dit wonderbaarlijke verhaal gaat over een jong meisje dat zwaar autistisch is. Haar moeder vertelt het verhaal vanaf de geboorte tot één van de hoogte punten in Iris leven. Het verhaal laat maar een korte periode van hun leven zien, aangezien er nog veel jaren zullen volgen. Maar het zijn waarschijnlijk wel een van de moeilijkste maar ook mooie jaren.
Dit is het eerste boek dat ik lees over een kind met autisme en het is ontzettend spraakmakend. Iris mag dan zwaar autistisch zijn, ze heeft een hoop kwaliteiten die terwijl ze opgroeit steeds duidelijker worden en zich ontwikkelen. Één groot talent is schilderen. Het boek staat vol met mooie prenten van de schilderijen die Iris heeft gemaakt. Onvoorstelbaar mooi gewoon!
Twee andere aspecten die sterk naar voren komen in het boek zijn dieren en muziek. Arabella Carter-Johnson, de moeder van Iris die het boek geschreven heeft, vertelt ook over haar jeugd, wat zij heeft meegemaakt en hoe zich dat reflecteert in haar leven als Iris er deel van uitmaakt.
Het verhaal met de prachtige schilderijen en foto's van Iris zorgen voor een uniciteit die ik nog nooit heb ervaren. Dit boek krijgt een ere plaats in mijn boekenkast en wordt er zeker nog eens bijgepakt om opnieuw te lezen.
English:
This remarkable story is about a young girl with autism. Her mother, Arabella Carter-Johnson, tells the story from the birth of her daughter all the way to one of the biggest highlights in Iris’ life. Even though the story shows only the first five years of Iris’ life, it seemed like a whole lifetime.
I’ve never read a book about an autistic child before, but this one is sensational. Iris may be autistic, she has a lot of qualities that evolve while she’s growing up. One of these talents is painting. This book is full of beautiful paintings Iris made since she was three years old. They are unbelievably wonderful!
Two other important aspects in the story are animals and music. Iris’ mother also tells about her youth, what she has experienced and how that’s reflecting in her life when Iris becomes a part of it.
This book with beautiful paintings and photo’s of Iris, make something unique. Something I’ve never experienced before. It’s going to be honored on my bookshelf and I’m sure I’ll be re-reading it many times in my life.
June 15, 2017
The heartfelt story of how a family learns to live with autism--young Iris--and how a Maine Coon kitten became her service animal. it's a fascinating tale of how the mother especially explored options for her child, creating opportunities on her own when schools were inadequate to their needs. The conversational style makes for easy reading (or listening), with details of autism shared painlessly, and her herculean efforts to create a program that allowed her daughter to explore and then interact with her world are simply amazing. Engrossing, candid, emotionally-charged, moving, and ultimately upbeat. Nothing like a cat that saves the day.
July 17, 2018
This was an advanced copy that I won from Goodreads. It's a sweet telling of a mother's total dedication to the development and education of her autistic daughter. The subtitle on my copy reads "How Thula the Cat Saved a Little Girl and Her Family," but the cat (a Maine Coon, truly a remarkable breed) does not come into the story until past the halfway point. This is really about the extraordinary commitment and creativity of Iris's mother and dad and their very supportive family in helping their little girl reach her potential. This family invests their energies in the right things, but even reading about the efforts and creative work of Iris's mom exhausted me. I was envious of the mother's ability to bring plans to reality, her forward thinking. God knew Iris needed that kind of mother.
The child's paintings in my copy were all black and white, but I'm guessing they aren't in the published version and probably add much to the book. The photography is something special. Very sweet and I'm sure encouraging to other parents whose children are on the spectrum.
The child's paintings in my copy were all black and white, but I'm guessing they aren't in the published version and probably add much to the book. The photography is something special. Very sweet and I'm sure encouraging to other parents whose children are on the spectrum.
May 11, 2017
Not a quick-read or a page-turner but an important read for parents and others who love someone on the autism spectrum. Arabella Carter-Johnson describes, in detail, what life is like parenting a child when you can't break into their world. Each child on the spectrum is different so I do not have all of the same experiences as the Johnson family, but I could definitely relate to several of them!
Arabella's drive and determination to do whatever necessary to help her daughter, Iris, reminded me of so many parents of children with special needs I know. Easy to relate to her joys & triumphs, as well as her frustrations. Gave the book three-stars instead of four because I felt it was quite a bit longer than necessary.
Arabella's drive and determination to do whatever necessary to help her daughter, Iris, reminded me of so many parents of children with special needs I know. Easy to relate to her joys & triumphs, as well as her frustrations. Gave the book three-stars instead of four because I felt it was quite a bit longer than necessary.
February 16, 2018
I've never been thinking about children with autism. I have never met anyone with an autistic spectrum disorder. The author describes daily struggles and victories with her autistic daughter, little things that other parents / non parents are taking for granted. Art, music, nature and animals raises Iris to the seventh heaven. Inspiring story, inspiring child and inspiring and dedicated parents! This is definitely a must read!
March 9, 2017
"Iris Grace" is a completely charming memoir. The titular child lives with autism, and her parents are determined to help her out of her silent world. They try various recommended methods to no avail, and then author Arabella Carter-Johnson gets the idea to acquire a cat. Thula is a Maine Coon, and she somehow manages to get through to Iris immediately. From the day Thula comes home, Iris makes decided, if slow, improvements in her communication. Soon, she is interested in music, all sorts of animals, bicycling, and more. Her favorite thing is painting, and her Impressionistic works find their home on an internet gallery that results in a great many people knowing Iris' story.
The author is frank about the challenges she and her family faced as they dealt with autism. Many an outing had to be cut short because Iris would become overstimulated ... but if they could take Thula, things generally went more smoothly. The young parents' marriage sometimes felt the strain as well, since Iris sometimes seemed unable to deal with her father's presence. Still, everyone around the Carter-Johnsons was determined to help them work through it all.
I enjoyed the author's narrative voice, as well as several of her anecdotes unrelated to Iris. She had been a horse trainer at one point, and it turns out that she and I had both taken Monty Roberts' Join-Up course. She also shared stories of the family's outings to sites I have enjoyed, such as Warwick Castle, which made the text come alive for me.
I also developed a much greater understanding of autism as a result of this book. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to know more.
The author is frank about the challenges she and her family faced as they dealt with autism. Many an outing had to be cut short because Iris would become overstimulated ... but if they could take Thula, things generally went more smoothly. The young parents' marriage sometimes felt the strain as well, since Iris sometimes seemed unable to deal with her father's presence. Still, everyone around the Carter-Johnsons was determined to help them work through it all.
I enjoyed the author's narrative voice, as well as several of her anecdotes unrelated to Iris. She had been a horse trainer at one point, and it turns out that she and I had both taken Monty Roberts' Join-Up course. She also shared stories of the family's outings to sites I have enjoyed, such as Warwick Castle, which made the text come alive for me.
I also developed a much greater understanding of autism as a result of this book. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to know more.
February 20, 2018
Excellent - a beautiful picture of selfless love, amazing achievements and triumph in this family of four.
March 18, 2017
I bought this book after following Iris Grace on Facebook and seeing her paintings. Iris is an amazing little girl with a fantastic, loving family. A wonderfully written book that I didn't want to end.
June 3, 2017
The narrative of working with Iris and her progress as well as her setbacks is moving and thought-provoking. I marvel at all Iris' family worked at to encourage and accept the view of the world as Iris sees it. Autism is not easy to understand, yet Iris' family has arrived at a variety of ways to give Iris the rich experiences she needs. We are given insight into not only the successes as they are experienced but also to the frustrations involved.
November 19, 2020
It's a journal of a mom raising an autistic child. Too detailed, the reader wasn't clearly taken into consideration by the writer and the editor.
March 23, 2016
I defy anyone to deny the power of art as expression, or the importance of the love between humans and animals after reading this book. Iris is a young girl with severe autism who had almost no communication skills. That is until she picked up a paintbrush and unlocked a world of hidden talent. When the family then decided to get a pet cat, new breakthroughs were made and an incredible bond was forged.
Beautifully written by Iris' own mother, this is an honest, heartfelt portrayal of how autism can affect a child and a family at large, but most importantly a reminder that there is potential for greatness in all of us, especially with a loyal companion by our side.
The only slightly negative point I have about this book is one that can't be helped but that I still feel is worth pointing out. Whilst many problems faced by the family will be relatable to a lot of people, there's no denying that several solutions they implemented were only available to them because they had access to money, and this may make it difficult for some people to connect fully to their story or to pick up practical tips for day-to-day life with an autistic child (unless you have the budget for private therapists, home renovations, special sensory equipment, etc.)
That said, it's informative, important and incredibly heart-warming. The inclusion of photographs and Iris' artwork throughout make this even more special.
Beautifully written by Iris' own mother, this is an honest, heartfelt portrayal of how autism can affect a child and a family at large, but most importantly a reminder that there is potential for greatness in all of us, especially with a loyal companion by our side.
The only slightly negative point I have about this book is one that can't be helped but that I still feel is worth pointing out. Whilst many problems faced by the family will be relatable to a lot of people, there's no denying that several solutions they implemented were only available to them because they had access to money, and this may make it difficult for some people to connect fully to their story or to pick up practical tips for day-to-day life with an autistic child (unless you have the budget for private therapists, home renovations, special sensory equipment, etc.)
That said, it's informative, important and incredibly heart-warming. The inclusion of photographs and Iris' artwork throughout make this even more special.
August 21, 2020
Iris Grace is a remarkable story of a brilliant, beautiful autistic girl and her blossoming in the safe cradle of love from her mother, father, extended family, ever-faithful cat Thula, and helper persons. Told through the words of her devoted mother, the story unfolds in raw honesty about the challenges, frustrations, and missteps of navigating the world of autism, juxtaposed with every glorious baby step of 'victory' and joy in seeing Iris Grace become more and more confident. The book is a beautiful testament to the constant quest to listen to Iris's cues and to learn how best to support her and provide the safe space for her to grow and self regulate. Of course, Thula plays a major role in Iris' growth, being her constant companion and best friend in ways that boggle the mind!
While I read on Kindle, I want to purchase the hardback edition to have this treasured book. I also have shared with my family and friends, and hope to raise awareness of the autism spectrum. Thank you to the author, Iris Grace, and Thula for your inspiration!
While I read on Kindle, I want to purchase the hardback edition to have this treasured book. I also have shared with my family and friends, and hope to raise awareness of the autism spectrum. Thank you to the author, Iris Grace, and Thula for your inspiration!
April 18, 2019
This is getting my “Book of the Year” award. A patron borrowed this from another library and when she returned it I started just flipping through. I ended up checking it out myself and couldn’t put it down. First of all, the book is just beautiful. Second, the story of this mom and her beautiful, artistic daughter is very well written. Third, the photographs she has taken AND Iris Grace’s art work are a feast for the eyes. The masterful impressionist paintings Iris has done, starting at age 3, drew me in by the heartstrings. There is just something that grabs you. I ended up buying the book and the library is also getting a copy. I want to be able to revisit these pictures over and over. They just make me happy.
December 30, 2016
An absolutely lovely story. Balanced and fair in the mothers telling of the journey to fullness for her daughter, Iris Grace. I feel genuinely sad that it's come to a finish as I felt so much a part of the story. This is a must read!
July 27, 2024
Such a great and important book❤️ One of the best I've ever read. A very inspiring journey of Iris's that I still follow to this day. It has something magical in it, something that makes me want to come back and read it again, again and again. Very true. Very beautiful. Very incredible💗
January 10, 2018
Good insight into understanding an autistic child
March 12, 2018
I believe the movie Rainman in 1988 was my introduction to autism, particularly the extreme "giftedness" exhibited by some individuals on the spectrum. Nearly two decades later a young man in my town, who happens to be on the spectrum, garnered national attention by what he was able to accomplish during the last four minutes of a high school basketball game when he was serendipitously sent in by the coach.
With many other examples and stories (including Mozart), I will admit to a fascination with the topic. What caught my eye with the cover of this book was the sleeping beauty of the little girl and the attentive focus of her cat. What caught my heart in its pages was the lovingly dogged determination of Arabella to seek out every possible path to opening up communication with and for her silent child.
Throughout the book it is achingly evident how exhausting her task proved to be. Yet, well before the final pages Iris Grace does communicate on a simple level and speaks to family member as she is wont.
I believe it was at age 3 that Iris was introduced to painting. What she produced I will describe as amazingly colorful and beautiful renderings of "abstract meets impressionism".
In order to connect with other parents of autistic children, and to provide a spotlight on individuals on the spectrum, her mother added Iris' paintings to her facebook forum and they become a sensation, eventually attracting gallery attention and being sold to pay for her many therapies.
We've all heard some variation of how we only use 10% of our brain power. Seeing the gifts that are to be found in some "unlikely" individuals always makes me wonder what might be possible for any of us if we approach ability and possibility in a different way. Arabella Carter-Johnson recognized that her daughter Iris was different but refused to believe that she was incapable of anything. She embraced the difference and found ways to make inroads and outlets for communication, expression and creativity.
We as people have historically not been very accepting of differences, be it difference in race, culture, opinion, approach or pretty much anything. We tend to want to shoehorn everyone into a specific fit. In truth, one-size-fits-all has never worked. It is the people who have embraced and explored the frontier of difference that have changed the world.
There are two reasons that I give this book a 5 rating: It had me rooting for our heroes, (both mother and daughter) while pulling me along to see what would happen in the end. It also brought to mind the word indomitable. This was a reminder that like this mother, if we are willing to commit to searching ceaselessly, be it into ourselves, our brains, our hearts, our minds, our possibilities on any level, there is no telling what we might be able to discover or accomplish.
With many other examples and stories (including Mozart), I will admit to a fascination with the topic. What caught my eye with the cover of this book was the sleeping beauty of the little girl and the attentive focus of her cat. What caught my heart in its pages was the lovingly dogged determination of Arabella to seek out every possible path to opening up communication with and for her silent child.
Throughout the book it is achingly evident how exhausting her task proved to be. Yet, well before the final pages Iris Grace does communicate on a simple level and speaks to family member as she is wont.
I believe it was at age 3 that Iris was introduced to painting. What she produced I will describe as amazingly colorful and beautiful renderings of "abstract meets impressionism".
In order to connect with other parents of autistic children, and to provide a spotlight on individuals on the spectrum, her mother added Iris' paintings to her facebook forum and they become a sensation, eventually attracting gallery attention and being sold to pay for her many therapies.
We've all heard some variation of how we only use 10% of our brain power. Seeing the gifts that are to be found in some "unlikely" individuals always makes me wonder what might be possible for any of us if we approach ability and possibility in a different way. Arabella Carter-Johnson recognized that her daughter Iris was different but refused to believe that she was incapable of anything. She embraced the difference and found ways to make inroads and outlets for communication, expression and creativity.
We as people have historically not been very accepting of differences, be it difference in race, culture, opinion, approach or pretty much anything. We tend to want to shoehorn everyone into a specific fit. In truth, one-size-fits-all has never worked. It is the people who have embraced and explored the frontier of difference that have changed the world.
There are two reasons that I give this book a 5 rating: It had me rooting for our heroes, (both mother and daughter) while pulling me along to see what would happen in the end. It also brought to mind the word indomitable. This was a reminder that like this mother, if we are willing to commit to searching ceaselessly, be it into ourselves, our brains, our hearts, our minds, our possibilities on any level, there is no telling what we might be able to discover or accomplish.
March 1, 2018
This is an inspiring book detailing the life of a young girl named Iris. From her parents meeting and their early life together to the birth of their daughter, life seemed good. The birth of their daughter was a happy event but as she grew, it was obvious that she was different. She hardly slept, didn't tolerate noises, and seemed locked in her own little world. Once her parents suspected she might be autistic, they began rounds of testing and therapy, trying to help Iris fit into the world.
The more her mother observed Iris, the more she became convinced that she had to look at things differently: somehow, she has to let Iris lead the way and focus on what was important to her young child rather than pushing Iris to just fit in. She had to let Iris be herself. But how can she see what's in the mind of a nonverbal child.
She began observing her child, discovering that books, colors, music, animals, and nature were important to Iris. It was a long process of ups and downs. They got some things right and were rewarded with seeing increased confidence and trust from their daughter. They read her body language and hand gestures making communication easier. They found that organized school programs weren't a good fit so began homeschooling. They researched autism, spoke with other families raising autistic children, found compassionate and flexible therapists, and slowly they saw the immense intelligence and special talents inside Iris.
They tried some of the traditional therapy animals, but they weren't a good fit until they found a lovely and loving Maine Coon kitten that they named Thula. Thula and Iris immediately bonded. Thula knew instinctively when Iris needed comfort, and became her closest friend. As Iris became more verbal, many of her words were directed to her cat. The two explored their world together in harmony.
Iris has become something of a hero to me. She has such great talent as a painter. Her work seems full of nature and emotion. She seems to see everything as linked together...music, nature, colors...and it's a wonderful way to think. And her parents and extended family are so fully supportive of Iris and each other. Despite the frustrations they faced, and the way many so-called professionals treat those on the autistic spectrum, they never give up. I look forward to reading more about this wonderful family.
The more her mother observed Iris, the more she became convinced that she had to look at things differently: somehow, she has to let Iris lead the way and focus on what was important to her young child rather than pushing Iris to just fit in. She had to let Iris be herself. But how can she see what's in the mind of a nonverbal child.
She began observing her child, discovering that books, colors, music, animals, and nature were important to Iris. It was a long process of ups and downs. They got some things right and were rewarded with seeing increased confidence and trust from their daughter. They read her body language and hand gestures making communication easier. They found that organized school programs weren't a good fit so began homeschooling. They researched autism, spoke with other families raising autistic children, found compassionate and flexible therapists, and slowly they saw the immense intelligence and special talents inside Iris.
They tried some of the traditional therapy animals, but they weren't a good fit until they found a lovely and loving Maine Coon kitten that they named Thula. Thula and Iris immediately bonded. Thula knew instinctively when Iris needed comfort, and became her closest friend. As Iris became more verbal, many of her words were directed to her cat. The two explored their world together in harmony.
Iris has become something of a hero to me. She has such great talent as a painter. Her work seems full of nature and emotion. She seems to see everything as linked together...music, nature, colors...and it's a wonderful way to think. And her parents and extended family are so fully supportive of Iris and each other. Despite the frustrations they faced, and the way many so-called professionals treat those on the autistic spectrum, they never give up. I look forward to reading more about this wonderful family.
October 27, 2020
This is a memoir of Iris Grace, a beautiful little girl born on the Autism Spectrum. It is also about her Mother, Arabella and her quest to reach her daughter and give her the best life possible. Arabella has the courage to go against the standard therapies for autism, seeking to understand Iris and find what works for her. She refuses to force Iris into a pigeonhole. She doesn't want to learn to deal with meltdowns, she seeks to eliminate them by avoiding those situations that lead to them. Iris likes books so Arabella surrounds her with them. They read together, slowly at first, finding what Iris likes. Iris likes nature so Arabella creates a garden, slightly wild, that Iris can explore. Iris likes drawing and coloring. When Arabella introduces her to watercolors a breakthrough happens. Iris is an artist, creating paintings of style and technique far beyond her years. Many examples of her artistry are included. Iris' Uncle takes a painting to a charity auction and to their amazement it sells for 850 pounds. Arabella begins making prints of the paintings and selling them online. They bring enough to fund Iris' more advanced therapies and help others. The book is filled with inspiring stories of Arabella letting Iris lead her own development. Iris responds to music so Arabella fills her life with it. She brings in instruments and teachers. Eventually they attend live concerts, helping Iris adjust to crowds and environments she can't control. If Arabella tries something that doesn't work, she sets it aside, perhaps to return to it later, perhaps not. Thula the Cat marks the biggest breakthrough, though she doesn't appear until well after the halfway point. Thula is a remarkable animal, a Maine Coon cat who seems to instinctively understand what Iris needs her to be or do.
This is a story of unconditional love, of trial and error to find therapies that work and discard those that don't. Arabella is fearless and tireless in her quest to teach, to reach and draw out Iris. It is a remarkable book and I cannot recommend it highly enough. You will gain a much better understanding of Autism and what is means to love an Autistic child.
This is a story of unconditional love, of trial and error to find therapies that work and discard those that don't. Arabella is fearless and tireless in her quest to teach, to reach and draw out Iris. It is a remarkable book and I cannot recommend it highly enough. You will gain a much better understanding of Autism and what is means to love an Autistic child.
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