Press Release
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
Learning Acceptance of Other People's Differences
Fiction novel about a young girl with Asperger's Syndrome conveys a powerful lesson of tolerance
HONOLULU — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that roughly one in 110 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder. Asperger's Syndrome is a neurological disorder on the autism spectrum that is often missed or misdiagnosed, as varying symptoms can be hard to identify or do not fully appear until a child is school-aged or entering puberty.
Delightfully Different (published by iUniverse) is a fiction novel by D. S. Walker that offers a poignant glimpse into the life and mind of a girl with Asperger's Syndrome. With an extensive vocabulary and insight beyond her years, Mia Lung is a beautiful spirit who soon realizes extraordinary musical talents. Though subtle signs emerge early on, such as not liking to talk on the phone or walk barefoot on the grass, her condition remains undiagnosed until later in childhood.
I really hated lunchtime. It was torture. Just so you know, I was not being a brat. The truth was that I had to have my food at just the right temperature to eat it, and some foods were just the wrong color, the wrong texture, or just looked or smelled funny. Even Mom could not understand this, so she did not try to explain it.
Throughout her childhood, Mia learns how to manage her sensory sensitivity, embrace her extraordinary musical talents, overcome the anger caused by bullying and strengthen her relationships with others. Walker's message appeals to girls who see themselves as different and to those who have experienced bullying, as well as to parents and teachers who can help teach the valuable lesson of tolerance.
Delightfully Different demonstrates that every life has a purpose and that being unique is what makes each of us special.
About the Author
D. S. Walker has been a registered nurse for more than 25 years and has extensively studied sensory processing issues related to Asperger's Syndrome. She lives in Honolulu, Hawaii, with her husband and two children, where she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, walking her dogs and reading.
Author Web page: authordswalker.com iUniverse is the leading book marketing, editorial services and supported self-publishing company. For more information, visit www.iuniverse.com.
