Wiltshire-based author, mum and autism specialist, Helen Eaton, has produced a new graphic novel, Arna and Ruby – An Autism Story, for adults, teens and older children to enjoy.
The story uses comic-style text and illustrations to make the book accessible to a range of readers, while also presenting key information about autism through the plot and images.
“Due to the Covd-19 lockdown, I’ve had a chance to focus on my passion for autism awareness and create this book,” explained Helen. “I’m very proud of the autism story it tells, and grateful to the amazing illustrator Kris Coley for magically transforming my words into pictures. Arna and Ruby is not just an enjoyable read, it’s a great learning resource for families, anyone working with children or those who want to know more about autism.
“I have an autistic child, and my other two show lots of autistic traits, so I know both the joys and difficulties autism can bring to a family. When working with families with an autistic child, I constantly hear how difficulty it is to get reliable and accessible information about autism. Not everyone wants to read a 500 page text book to better understand their child.
“This book came about after discussions with Kris, who is a fan of graphic novels, and together we developed the idea one day over a cup of tea. I provide the ideas and autism knowledge and he magically transforms my words into pictures. There’s also lots to read in the book, and it makes a great learning resource as well as an enjoyable read. Also, you don’t have to know or work with an autistic child to enjoy it.”
When it comes to the book’s storyline, Helen provides the following précis:
Arna appears sullen, withdrawn and unwilling to make friends.
Ruby is bright and vivacious, but at school hides her true nature in order to fit in.
Join the families through this graphic novel as together they seek to understand autism and make positive changes.
Arna’s parents are frustrated as they don’t understand his behaviour, and they initially struggle to accept his autism diagnosis. With the help of Ruby’s family and an autism expert, they discover how to have a better relationship with their son.
With graphic novel style images the story is packed with beautiful illustrations and helpful information.
Topics include autism, sensory processing difficulties, avoidance behaviour, school anxiety and masking.
Arna and Ruby – An Autism Story is available for pre-order through the website www.heleneaton.co.uk/shop