Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of Louder Than Words: A Mother's Journey in Healing Autism

BeckyWalker avatar reviewed on + 120 more book reviews


I do not have an autistic child or grandchild, but have friends and relatives who do. So, my review is as someone who wanted to know more out of a curiosity standpoint rather than someone looking to heal or help my own child. There are many harsh reviews out there for this book, but as someone who knew basically nothing about this diagnosis, this book was extremely helpful in answering some of my questions. I applaud Jenny McCarthy for trying anything and everything to "open the window" for her son Evan. The biggest hurdle I had to overcome in this book was her language. I realize she's a comedian and that's her hook - foul language, but I just didn't see the need for it here. She says at the end she doesn't want us to see this book as one about Autism, but rather one of faith. My sensibilities have a hard time regarding any book being about faith that has the F word shouted in every chapter. If you can overlook that contradictory message, then the book is quite informative. I realize this book came out in 2007, so there is probably so much more and better information now. But, if you are at the beginning of your journey, this might be a good place to start. One final thought - This book is just one more that pushes home the constant message we are what we eat. Food can heal or harm so many maladies.