The spark : a mother's story of nurturing genius
By: Barnett, Kristine.
Publisher: New York, NY Random House 2013Description: x, 250 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.ISBN: 9780812993370.Subject(s): AUTISM
| PARENTING | INTERESTS | BIOGRAPHY | AUTOBIOGRAPHYSummary: "Kristine Barnett's son Jacob has an IQ higher than Einstein's, a photographic memory, and he taught himself calculus in two weeks. At nine he started working on an original theory in astrophysics that experts believe may someday put him in line for a Nobel Prize, and at age twelve he became a paid researcher in quantum physics. But the story of Kristine's journey with Jake is all the more remarkable because his extraordinary mind was almost lost to autism. At age two, when Jake was diagnosed, Kristine was told he might never be able to tie his own shoes... Dramatic, inspiring, and transformative, The Spark is about the power of love and courage in the face of overwhelming obstacles, and the dazzling possibilities that can occur when we learn how to tap the true potential that lies within every child, and in all of us." - PUBLISHER'S WEBSITEReview: This is an inspiring read, not just because of Jacob’s IQ and his outstanding ability and achievements in math and physics but because of Kristine’s commitment to her son and wanting him to have ordinary childhood experiences as well as to reach his full potential. She listened to her gut instinct as a parent and teacher and was led by Jacob and his passions to explore what he could do rather than be limited by the things she was told he could not do.
This family faced much adversity but rather than focusing on that they looked outward to what they could do in their community to help other families who had children with autism. Yes this family achieved amazing things in the face of adversity and there is a risk that this may leave the reader feeling inadequate or rather defensive. But the message I took away was their commitment to Jacob, and others with autism, to have a good childhood and to not miss out on experiences that typical children take for granted if at all possible.
The story this book tells is exceptional; it won’t be the experience of most individuals and families dealing with autism. However the desire to see past the diagnosis and limits to find and achieve the potential within is surely common to most parents and supporters of a loved one with autism.
A good read.
| Item type | Current library | Call number | Status | Date due | Barcode | Item holds | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Book | IHC Library | 810 BAR (Browse shelf(Opens below)) | Available | W000004 |
Donated by The Freemasons Charity
"Kristine Barnett's son Jacob has an IQ higher than Einstein's, a photographic memory, and he taught himself calculus in two weeks. At nine he started working on an original theory in astrophysics that experts believe may someday put him in line for a Nobel Prize, and at age twelve he became a paid researcher in quantum physics. But the story of Kristine's journey with Jake is all the more remarkable because his extraordinary mind was almost lost to autism. At age two, when Jake was diagnosed, Kristine was told he might never be able to tie his own shoes... Dramatic, inspiring, and transformative, The Spark is about the power of love and courage in the face of overwhelming obstacles, and the dazzling possibilities that can occur when we learn how to tap the true potential that lies within every child, and in all of us." - PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE
This is an inspiring read, not just because of Jacob’s IQ and his outstanding ability and achievements in math and physics but because of Kristine’s commitment to her son and wanting him to have ordinary childhood experiences as well as to reach his full potential. She listened to her gut instinct as a parent and teacher and was led by Jacob and his passions to explore what he could do rather than be limited by the things she was told he could not do.
This family faced much adversity but rather than focusing on that they looked outward to what they could do in their community to help other families who had children with autism. Yes this family achieved amazing things in the face of adversity and there is a risk that this may leave the reader feeling inadequate or rather defensive. But the message I took away was their commitment to Jacob, and others with autism, to have a good childhood and to not miss out on experiences that typical children take for granted if at all possible.
The story this book tells is exceptional; it won’t be the experience of most individuals and families dealing with autism. However the desire to see past the diagnosis and limits to find and achieve the potential within is surely common to most parents and supporters of a loved one with autism.
A good read.
Patron comment on 24/09/2014
A very interesting read. A great warning never to make assumptions. Always look to understand.
Patron comment on
The Spark was great. Most of the stuff I read nowadays is focused on supporting my boys with what they CAN'T do so it was a refreshing, inspiring change ☺️ Got a few tips for managing emotional reactions too which I will pass on to school.
Patron comment on 24/09/2015
A lovely book. Gives parents a lot of hope.