I say that because . . . well, there were so many reasons not to like this book and yet I did, a lot. I guess most importantly, the guy can write and he has a story to tell and it was unusual and about things I’m generally interested in.

So, what was wrong? First of all, the whole autism thing. I don’t believe in it. But then, he himself admits in one passage that autism (particularly “spectrum”) will likely one day be considered normal, not something in need of treatment. I would add, as it once was.

Second, there were several times in the book that I thought, geez, if someone treated me like they treat their son, I’d be autistic too. What I mean by that is that they just seemed way too condescending (“good talking”) and judgmental (“good talking” again) and concerned about what the “experts” on autism thought. Add to that that my most normal child had some poop issues herself and absolutely would NOT poop in the pot until she was nearly five . . . and their problems just don’t seem that extreme to me.

And third, considering the above two, maybe the kid didn’t need “healed” at all. Ah, but, the family certainly did. Nothing like shamanism to give that to you!

Great adventure, great setting, great descriptions.