Sensational Journeys: 48 Personal Stories of Sensory Processing Disorder
by Hartley Steiner
Sensory World, 2011
270 pages
About the Book
Written by the mom of a young man with SPD, this much needed book tells the stories of over 48 families as they go through the trials and triumphs of sensory issues. It will cover all different aspects and what families should expect as they enter, and what hope lies ahead.
My Thoughts
What a wonderful idea to pull together all of these different stories and perspectives into one book! As a mom who is very familiar with one particular expression of sensory processing disorder (SPD), I found it extremely enlightening to see this condition through other eyes.
The children described vary in age and circumstance; some have other diagnoses or conditions, while others have only SPD; some were recognized and treated at an early age while others struggled longer until answers were found. What they have in common is a parent or parents who love them and are determined to help their children succeed no matter what their challenges may be.
I think this quote, from the story “The First Day of Kindergarten,” sums it up best:
The fact is that my daughter is who she is, and “who she is” is a wonderful, bright, and sweet child whose brain processes sensory input differently from that of other children. She will learn to make her brain work for her, and she will learn to work in the way that’s best for her brain. And she will thrive.
~ Jennifer Kerr Breedlove, www.greenmomintheburbs.wordpress.com
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has a child in their life that is affected by sensory processing disorder, whether you are a parent, grandparent, teacher, therapist, or friend. Each story is quite short and easily read, but they add up to a powerful message of awareness and acceptance of what needs to be done to make a different for these kids.
Sensational Journeys is available directly from Sensory World/Future Horizons, where you can use the code INTERRUPTED to receive 15% off and free shipping in the continental US.
Note: This is Book #76 of my 2011 Reads (master list here). I received a galley copy of this book for free, and all opinions and comments are my own. The Future Horizons discount code is an affiliate link.
I'm a mom with Asperger's raising an amazing son with autism, which means I'm basically the case manager/advocate/cheerleader/chauffeur. The rest of the time, you can usually find me with my nose in a book!
