First published 2008
Dale Gardner's autism creates chaos in his family's daily life. The smallest change to his routine triggers violent tantrums that leave his parents Jamie and Nuala exhausted and desperate. Years of therapies and interventions produce only slow progress as Dale remains trapped in his isolated world. His parents fight constantly to reach their son and provide the help he needs. Their family life crumbles under the relentless pressure of Dale's condition. Then the Gardners bring home Henry, a golden retriever puppy. The connection between boy and dog transforms everything. Through Henry, Dale begins to engage with the world around him in ways his parents never thought possible. This bond becomes the key that unlocks Dale's potential and rebuilds their fractured family.
Genres: family-life, contemporary, non-fiction, parenting
Vibes: emotional-atmospheric, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, overcoming-adversity
280 pages · ebook · Sourcebooks
Content warnings: mental-illness