Rain Reign discussion

The author's portrayal of Autism/Asperger's was fascinating. From your experience with students, family, friends, or people you know, was it a honest portrayal? Did Rose's teacher and para interact with Rose well?

I had a student last year that I suspect has it. When I discussed his behaviors with a relative who is a SpEd teacher with a lot of experience, her first question was to ask if he is autistic. I saw some similar behaviors - very obsessive, distant. So I think that the portrayal was honest. At times I was hoping the para and teacher would be more patient but in the end the teacher was someone Rose turned to for help so maybe there was an undertone of kindness that wasn't obvious.

I am curious to know if any of you have someone close to you who is "on the spectrum." I have a teenaged cousin with Aspergers and she has really struggled in her family life...to the point that she moved away from a loving and responsible mother to live with her grandparents on a ranch where they could accommodate horses. She really connects with animals and interacts with them much better than she does with people.

Janet wrote: "I had a student last year that I suspect has it. When I discussed his behaviors with a relative who is a SpEd teacher with a lot of experience, her first question was to ask if he is autistic. I sa..."

Not personally Ashley, just the student I mentioned. I did have a student many years ago who was twice- identified - gifted and Asperger's. He was much less social than what I perceive Rose to be.

One reason I asked this question is because my 26 year old cousin has Asperger's Syndrome. He has struggled to hold jobs, build relationships with peers, and hold conversation even with close family. Some of the ways Rose was portrayed reminded me a lot of my cousin, but other parts, not so much. I suppose that there are many qualities and variations with Autism..

Ashley wrote: "I am curious to know if any of you have someone close to you who is "on the spectrum." I have a teenaged cousin with Aspergers and she has really struggled in her family life...to the point that sh..."

Interesting connection between your cousin and horses, and Rose and Rain.... perhaps animals are easier to connect with, and easier to show affection to for some people with Autism...

Megan wrote: "Ashley wrote: "I am curious to know if any of you have someone close to you who is "on the spectrum." I have a teenaged cousin with Aspergers and she has really struggled in her family life...to th..."

Animals don't judge. They just accept you as you are.