Code 9993

Ann Drew Jackson by Joan Clark

$17.95
July 2007, ISBN 978-1931282-45-1

Science class helps two kids with real-life issues adopt a more optimistic outlook outlook on life and themselves ….

Jackson Thomas, a fifth-grade boy with Asperger Syndrome, is back in Joan Clark’s sequel to her popular Jackson Whole Wyoming. This time, Jackson is in a new school and the story is through the voice of Hillary Branson, another fifth grader. Hillary Branson has a serious attitude problem, along with being spunky, independent, and a tendency to lie. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that when a teacher assigns her to complete a science project with Jackson, Hillary rebels in any way she can. As the story develops her troubled background is revealed. She and Jackson eventually discover that they have a lot more in common than they had first realized.

Ann Drew Jackson brings to light a truth that teachers have known for years – occasionally kids who have to deal with issues that are out of their control, such as Jackson, can become a guiding light for their peers. In Ann Drew Jackson, Jackson helps Hillary in a profound way, primarily by being himself – something Hillary has difficulty with. Ann Drew Jackson lets children with and without autism spectrum disorders get a glimpse of the frustrations that can drift into people’s lives. Through the experiences of Jackson and Hillary readers learn, from both sides of the spectrum, that people are people despite life’s circumstances.

Intended audiences

1. Children 3rd grade and up

2. Teachers of students 3rd grade and up – Ideal for reading classes or groups

3. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders

What Others Say ...

“Through the eyes of a child, Joan Clark has wonderfully captured behavior often viewed by others as odd. This insightful perspective allows the reader to contemplate another dimension in thought organization, one not typically recognized by society, but perfectly sensible to some.”

– Timothy Kowalski, M.A., C.C.C., Author of The Source for Asperger’s Syndrome

“What an engaging peek into the mix of personalities we educators see each day at school. Hillary, the smart-mouthed girl with the hard life, meets Jackson, the painfully honest boy who dwells in a world of his own interests and obsessions. Amidst classroom conflicts and dramas, a story of unlikely friendship unfolds that enlightens and entertains from start to finish.”

– Barbara Lowstetter, Speech-Language Pathologist, Houston, TX

“Ann Drew Jackson is truly a gift to a world in desperate need of understanding and acceptance between persons with social differences. A simple, yet heartfelt and often humorous story, Joan Clark’s book relates the everyday struggles children and adults face as they cope with and relate to peers, students, and family members. This book is an excellent read for families, students, and professionals seeking understanding about the uniqueness of children with Asperger Syndrome.”

– Robert Bushey, Jr., M-Div, Minister for Children, Youth & Families, Central Christian Church, Decatur, IL, and parent of a child with Asperger Syndrome