Jackson Thomas, a fifth grade boy with Asperger Syndrome, is back in Joan Clark's sequel to "Jackson Whole Wyoming". This time, Jackson's in a new school with a new person telling the story. Hillary Branson has a real attitude problem, spunk, independence, and a tendency to lie. In "Ann Drew Jackson", when the teachers assigns her to complete a science project with Jackson, Hillary tries to rebel in any way she can. As the story develops her issues are revealed. She and Jackson eventually discover that they have a lot more in common than they realize. "Ann Drew Jackson" brings to light a truth that teachers have known for years. Occasionally kids that 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. Jackson accomplishes this through being himself. "Ann Drew Jackson" lets children with and without ASD to experience the frustrations that may drift into their lives. The book so vividly allows them to see, from both sides of the spectrum, that people are people despite uncontrollable circumstances.

 

This book was published 2007 by AAPC Publishing .

Joan Clark is a licensed speech and language pathologist living in central Illinois. She received her bachelor's degree from Penn State University and her master's degree from the University of Houston. She has worked in the public schools throughout her career. Currently she is serving on the autism spectrum disorders assessment team in the Macon-Piatt Special Education District.