A Will of His Own

"Kelly Harland's wonderfully clear, unsentimental and yet moving account of her daily struggles with Will brings a whole new perspective to our understanding [of autism]. Her descriptions of the continually changing hopes and aspirations that she and her husband have for him will have echoes for every parent, especially those of children affected by this complex, multi-faceted condition."

- from the foreword by Jane Asher, President of The National Autistic Society

Praise for the first edition:

"There's a miraculous alchemy to these stories of one small boy."

- The Seattle Times

"A Will of His Own sends a powerful and essentially positive message of hope, learning, and growth…highly recommended reading."

- Midwest Book Review

Kelly Harland's stories explore her son's life to the age of 14, and the new and unexpected universe she and her husband - both professional musicians - must learn to navigate with him.

Will's fears, anxieties, and obsessions can dominate daily life, making a trip to the grocery store seem like a walk across a minefield. But amidst these unpredictable "flip-outs" and "freak-outs," there are moments of wonder. When Will finally learns the give and take of conversation, or dreams about his future, it rekindles his mother's belief that anything is possible.