"They say you must walk a mile in another person's shoes to really know them. Liz Becker is an Autism Mom who walks a marathon in her autistic son's shoes and details it beautifully in her book Autism and The World According to Matt: A collection of 50 inspirational short stories on raising a moderate/severe mostly non-verbal autistic child from diagnosis to independence. This delightful collection of stories is a love letter from a mom who refuses to accept the 1990 view of autism that is imposed on her son, and instead embarks on a journey to uncover the beauty of who her son really is. The stories encompass everything from the trials and tribulations of potty training to helping Matt get his own apartment. Becker's style of writing evokes an Earl Hamner simplicity, making you feel as though Walton's mountain has visited the land of Autism. The result is lush and beautiful, you feel as though you are a part of the family that continually gathers ranks to protect Matt and help him safely make his way to independence. Readers will find themselves laughing along as both mother and son find the way to communicate in a world filled with complexities, half-truths and unrealistic expectations. They will cheer as Matt enjoys victories large and small and, like me, they will likely shed a tear when the road blocks seem just too tall to scale. Do yourself a favor and read this inspirational book from a Mom who helped to forge a path for Autism parents before Autism Speaks, before insurance reform and before there was any reason to hope." -Shannon Penrod, Host, Autism-Live