The character of "Nick" is based loosely on a combination of the experiences of our own son and oldest daughter, who both have autism spectrum disorders. The other people in the story are all also based on people in our son and daughter's life, like the teachers, therapists, Nick's older sisters and even the children they have met. I hope it gives you a bit better understanding of what it is like for a child with autism and their families. Each person with autism is unique, so what is written here may not apply to your situation, but I hope you can find something in it that is helpful to you, your child and family.