'Offers real-world advice while also highlighting the twin truths that autism is not a tragedy, and that adaptation and acceptance are not resignation' David Mitchell, bestselling author and co-translator of The Reason I Jump

'A must-read for anyone with an autistic child in their life' Laura James, author of Odd Girl Out

Written by Jessie Hewitson, an award-winning journalist, Autism is the book she wishes she had read when her son was first given the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

It combines her own experiences with tips from autistic adults and other parents - including author David Mitchell - as well as advice from autism professionals and academics such as Professor Simon Baron-Cohen.

Autism looks at the condition as a difference rather than a disorder and, keeps your child's happiness at the centre of the conversation. This book includes guidance on what to do if you think your child is autistic, how to understand and support your child at school, how to create an autism-friendly home and how to navigate the healthcare system, to ensure your child can advocate for themselves with confidence.

This parenting journey may not always be easy, but you have come to the right place to get started.

'This should be compulsory reading for all teachers and parents' Bobby Seagull, author and teacher

Jessie Hewitson's guide is a wise SatNav for what is often a bewildering, or even scary, zone of parenting. The book offers real-world, road-tested, child-first and family-friendly advice; while also highlighting the twin truths that autism is not a tragedy, and that adaptation and acceptance are not resignation. * David Mitchell, bestselling author and co-translator of The Reason I Jump *
A must-read for anyone with an autistic child in their life. * Laura James, author of Odd Girl Out *
It is marvellous and covers everything a parent should know in supporting their autistic child. I have advised all my consultant colleagues at the Lorna Wing Centre to recommend it to parents of newly diagnosed parents. * Judith Gould, lead consultant at the Lorna Wing Centre for Autism. *
Exceptionally useful and informative. * Uta Frith, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Development, UCL *
It is incredibly useful and informative, full of new research and interviews that put right an awful lot of misinformation. I cannot recommend this highly enough. * The Sun *
Jessie Hewitson really hits the mark with this book, giving our history, our diversity, our challenges and our hopes. Autistic people and their families are finally represented. * Carrie Grant *
An important book that will no doubt become an invaluable source of support for any parent who suspects - or has been told - that their child has autism... While its practical advice does not soften or shy away from any of the difficulties that await parents - this is a book that celebrates difference and champions happiness. * Ambitious About Autism (from their foreword) *
If you're going to buy an autism parenting book, please make it this one. The language used is positive, with talk of differences and not deficits. What is often described as "problem behaviour" in other books is reframed here (more accurately) as the result of an autistic person communicating there is a problem. This approach is going to be far more helpful. * Autistic & Cheerful Blog *

Jessie Hewitson is an award-winning journalist and editor who has worked for The Times, The Sunday Times and i newspaper. She is currently the SEND Agony Aunt for The Times and The Sunday Times. She lives in London and is the mother of two boys.