To Siri with Love: A Mother, Her Autistic Son, and the Kindness of Machines

**Discover the heartwarming and insightful journey of a mother and her autistic son in "To Siri with Love: A Mother, Her Autistic Son, and the Kindness of Machines" by Judith Newman.** This deeply moving memoir, born from Newman's viral New York Times op-ed, offers a candid and often hilarious glimpse into the world of raising a child with autism. More than just a collection of anecdotes, "To Siri with Love" is a testament to the power of connection, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unexpected ways technology can bridge communication gaps. Meet Gus, Judith Newman's extraordinary son, a young man with autism who sees the world through a unique and captivating lens. Gus might struggle with social cues like eye contact and express joy through enthusiastic hops, but he also possesses a remarkable empathy for inanimate objects, like the buses he worried about during a drivers' strike. Newman doesn't shy away from the challenges, sharing both the heartwarming and the heart-wrenching moments of their life. From the absurd (Gus's penchant for dining *au naturel* regardless of location) to the financially straining (the eye-watering cost of behavioral therapy), she paints a vivid picture of the realities faced by families navigating autism. But woven throughout these stories is an undeniable thread of humor and love. The book's title hints at its most compelling theme: the surprising role technology plays in Gus's life. When Newman discovered that Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, provided Gus with a non-judgmental conversational partner, she witnessed a remarkable transformation. Siri became a patient listener, answering Gus's endless questions about weather patterns and geographical facts, helping him develop his communication skills and navigate a world that often felt overwhelming. "To Siri with Love" is more than just a personal memoir; it's a poignant exploration of how technology can empower individuals with disabilities and offer new avenues for connection. Newman's writing is sharp, witty, and deeply empathetic, making this book a compelling read for parents, educators, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding autism. Critics have praised Newman's honesty and humor, noting that "To Siri with Love" offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on autism, moving beyond stereotypes and highlighting the unique gifts and challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to connect with another human being, reminding us of the importance of patience, acceptance, and the power of unconditional love. **Why you'll love this book:** * **A raw and honest portrayal of parenting a child with autism:** Judith Newman doesn't sugarcoat the difficulties, offering a realistic and relatable perspective. * **Heartwarming and humorous anecdotes:** Despite the challenges, the book is filled with moments of laughter and joy. * **A unique perspective on technology and autism:** Explore the surprising ways technology can bridge communication gaps and empower individuals with disabilities. * **Inspiring and uplifting:** "To Siri with Love" is a testament to the power of love, acceptance, and the human spirit. * **Perfect for readers interested in:** Memoirs, parenting, autism, disability studies, technology, family relationships, and heartwarming stories.