“Earle’s understanding of, and respect for, his grandson is evident throughout this book, and that is what makes it so special. The book started as a personal message for Charlie, answering all the questions his grandfather thought his grandson might ask, just in case Earle would not be around when all of these questions arose. Earle’s sensitivity, humanity, and insight are evident in his choice of topics to discuss and the wonderfully concrete, yet comprehensive, answers he offers for some very complex questions. . . . I am delighted that Earle has agreed to share his wisdom and understanding so generously so that others might benefit from his very important messages. . . . This contribution will help the people with autism, the target audience. Parents, family members, and other individuals will also find these humane insights to be poignant, thought-provoking, and inspiring.”
From the foreword by Gary Mesibov, PhD, Professor and Director of TEACCH, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
 

Earle P. Martin, Jr. is grandfather to Charlie, a young man with autism. Charlie’s diagnosis inspired Earle to become active in the autism community, and he remains active today. He believes in taking a positive, proactive approach to autism and hopes to help his grandson and others on the autism spectrum live full and rich lives, while still embracing the uniqueness that makes them who they are.

Chapter One: To Begin
For a better feeling for, and understanding of, autism

Chapter Two: What is Autism?
Thoughts on a definition

Chapter Three: What Having Autism Means, and Doesn’t Mean
What it is and is not

Chapter Four: What Does It Mean for You to Be Autistic?
Why I feel different, a few differences in my brain

Chapter Five: Our Brains
Using other parts of my brain

Chapter Six: Accepting Your Autism
Yes, I have autism.

Chapter Seven: Telling Others about You and Asking about Them
Knowing each other better

Chapter Eight: Being Different
We are all different

Chapter Nine: Time Alone and Time with Others
Why I need both

Chapter Ten: Mistakes
It’s okay to make mistakes

Chapter Eleven: Friends
Liking myself and being liked by others

Chapter Twelve: What you Might Be
I follow my interests. I follow my dreams.

Chapter Thirteen: God in Your Life
God loves me and is always with me

Chapter Fourteen: Can you Help Yourself to Live the Life You Want to Live? Yes, You Can.
I can use my brain to help myself
Chapter Fifteen: Seeing Autism as a Challenge
I can accept the challenge of my autism, and I ca win

Chapter Sixteen: Twelve Skills You Can Use
Twelve things I can do to help myself

Chapter Seventeen: My Affirmation
I am Charlie. I like myself. I am glad that I am me.

Chapter Seventeen: Last of All
I think I can