Books on Autism with Ann Sheybani

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Turn Autism Around is my second book, released in 2021. It came several years after my first book, The Verbal Behavior Approach, which has sold over 100,000 copies and is published in 17 languages. In this very special episode, my friend Ann Sheybani, a Harvard-trained writer, interviews me on what went into the publishing of Turn Autism Around and what it’s like to be a writer for a topic like autism.

What’s a Book Synopsis?

Ann Sheybani’s audience consists mostly of writers and those interested in writing books. I have had guests who are authors, and I may have listeners interested in this goal too! I wanted Turn Autism Around to be different from The Verbal Behavior Approach. When I decided to write this book, I was set on getting an agent, PR, and publishing with a well-known publishing house. When I went to Ann for advice, she made it clear. First step…write a synopsis. A synopsis is 1 to 2 pages of the nuts and bolts of your book: Why you? Why this topic? Why is it relevant? What will it offer? Answer all the questions about why your book is needed and why you are the one who needs to write it.

Is Autism a Polarizing Topic?

Polarizing topics can be good and bad when looking for an agent or publishing house; they get traction, BUT sometimes people might be worried about negative attention. Autism can be a controversial subject because it is such a spectrum. There are individuals like my son Lucas who need 24/7 care as adults, as to those who operate with full conversation skills, go to college, drive, and live a mostly typical life. There is a minority of fully functioning individuals with autism who say it is a gift, who say it shouldn’t be “turned around” or fixed. The reality is that when you have a young child with delays, there is no crystal ball that will tell you their future. I have a positive, child-friendly approach that can greatly increase their chances of success, reduce problem behaviors, and even catch up on many delays. Because I feel strongly about my positive approach and the extensive success stories behind me, I do not leave room for debate or negativity on my platform.

Going Beyond the Book, Turn Autism Around Resources, Courses, and Community

Those who read Turn Autism Around not only get access to the incredible content and stories inside the book, but they also get access to the Free Book Resources I reference throughout the book. I point to the resources 6 or 7 times throughout the book, and these are crucial for people to take advantage of. Beyond the book is my business, where I offer courses for parents, which is really an important pairing for people to see videos and get practice putting my approach into action. In addition, there is my online community, where members who’ve read my books, taken my courses, and consumed my free content can come together to ask questions, share experiences, and support each other.

This was a great opportunity to share another story of mine. I hope you enjoyed this interview and even took away some inspiration or information on writing your own book.

Ann Sheybani on Turn Autism Around Podcast

Ann Sheybani is the co-founder of East Hill Writers’ Workshops, a supportive community for blossoming writers. She received her Masters in Creative Writing and Literature from Harvard University. Her blog, Things Mama Never Taught Me, can be found at www.annsheybani.com. She and her husband split their time between Canton, Connecticut, and County Cork, Ireland.

You’ll Learn

  • What is a book synopsis?
  • How to get started writing a book?
  • Is autism a polarizing field?
  • Beyond the book, where does my business fit in?
  • Advice for writers.
  • Getting started with autism or delay concerns.

Resources

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Start making a difference for any child with autism or signs of autism through this free 1-Hour Life-Changing Workshop!