Abstract

There's something different about Dad. He gets upset when we're even a minute late for dinner, he is angry at noisy family gatherings, and he really likes talking about buses. He is also always on time to pick us up from school, helps with our homework for hours on end, and has a detailed knowledge of car engines that has saved day trips from breakdown disaster. It's ok that there's something different about Dad!

Following the story of Sophie and Daniel whose Dad, Mark, is on the autism spectrum, this heart-warming comic reveals the family's journey from initial diagnosis to gradual appreciation of Dad's differences. The family learn the reasons behind Dad's difficulties with communication, the senses, flexibility, and relationships, and find ways to make family life easier for everyone. It is an informative, light-hearted and reassuring look at growing up with a parent on the autism spectrum.

There are very few book currently available aimed at children with an autistic parent. This book contains some useful tips, aimed at enabling families with an autistic adult to better understand and help each other.
Youth in Mind
Youthinmind.info
Something Different About Dad is an excellent resource for families impacted by Asperger Syndrome. The authors serve as guides through the daily dilemmas that may emerge. They use an effective combination of image and text to explain terminology in concrete, useable ways. The book provides a non-judgmental categorization of differences in AS - how they may be manifested and managed while caring for all parties involved. The book also effectively addresses misinformation that one might encounter, making it a one-stop reference in this area. Most effective is the section in which a big family event that goes awry is deconstructed to help generate understanding. This book helpfully encourages concrete self-care for all parties while also promoting online safety. A bonus shout out to the power of comics in health information is greatly appreciated! Something Different About Dad is a fantastic resource for anyone and everyone impacted by Asperger Syndrome.
MK Czerwiec, a.k.a. Comic Nurse and co-manager of GraphicMedicine.org
Kirsti Evans is an Autism Quality Development Advisor for an Independent Service Provider, working across the UK. John Swogger is an archaeologist and illustrator who writes comics. He has produced work for museums, and books and magazines aimed at children and young adults.
I really like this book: a compelling tale about living with a parent with Asperger's which manages to impart a lot of valuable information. Kirsti Evans' entertaining narrative pulls the reader along effortlessly, while John Swogger's clear full-colour graphics are sure to appeal. The characters are well defined and believable and the action rings true. It can be a challenge to make educational works engaging, but this book really nails it.
Ian Williams, author of ‘The Bad Doctor’ and founder of GraphicMedicine.org