A Boy made of Blocks

Stuart, K. (2016). A Boy made of Blocks. London:Sphere.

Dr Anne is reading the Richard and Judy selection of books for 2017.  This book rang true with Dr Anne as she has worked with autistic children in her dance context.  She was totally absorbed in Alex's dealings with his son Sam.  He had put work ahead of his family and this had consequences.  He had found it difficult to deal with his son as he did not fit the norm.  Separating from his wife and losing his job changed Alex. Through Mindcraft, Alex realised his son was a human being with a keen brain and personality.  This is a neat book giving insight into the mind of an autistic child.

Dr Anne awards 8/10.

Baby Doll

Overton, H.  (2016) Baby Doll. London: Arrow Books

Dr Anne has memories of the book The Flowers in the Attic.  The story of the children kept in the attic disturbed her enormously.  She dreamt of the attic in the derelict house next door.  Subsequently she read Room now it is Baby Doll, the story of a teenager who was kidnapped and abused over a number of years before she escaped.  The story tells of the aftermath of the escape rather than the life in capture so quite a different angle from the other two books.

This was a compelling read with a happy ending.  Dr Anne awards 7/10.