Book club to discuss ‘Jackie’s Journal’

Submitted by Sugar Grove United Methodist Church

The next Book Bytes book club meeting will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, at Sugar Grove United Methodist Church, 176 Main St. The selected reading is “Jackie’s Journal” by Jackie and Diane Christiansen. The authors are the grandson and daughter of Richard and Linda Mayer. Diane is the author of two previous teen fantasy novels, “Switcher” and “Secrets of Woodcrest.”

“Jackie’s Journal” was written by Jackie and his mother to begin a discussion on the topic of autism spectrum disorder. He held his first book signing Sept. 8 during the Aurora Public Library’s “Catch a Bunch of Authors” program. Future signings will be held later this year at the Barnes & Noble stores in Geneva and Old Orchard, when they will speak at their Teacher Appreciation days.

Jackie and Diane will attend the book club meeting to discuss both the book and Autism Spectrum Disorder. To give you an idea of what to expect, Diane shares the following: “If you’ve ever wondered what Autism Spectrum Disorder looks like, here’s your opportunity to get a firsthand glimpse. Join Jackie Christiansen, a 10-year-old boy with ASD and his mother, as they talk about his new book, ‘Jackie’s Journal.’ Missed social cues, freaky food issues, as well as his thoughts on bullies will be just a part of this book chat. He’s ready to show you how he sees the world.”

This program should be of interest to young people fifth grade and up, parents, teachers and others who want to know more about the growing interest in ASD. “Jackie’s Journal” is available online from either Amazon or Barnes & Noble. The book should also be available at the Geneva Barnes & Noble store. Jackie and Diane will be on hand to sign your copy. For details, call Sugar Grove United Methodist Church at (630) 466-4501 or visit www.sgumc.net.