Lord, Cynthia. Rules.
Rules is a novel written from the point of view of Catherine, a twelve-year old girl looking for some normalcy amidst the chaos that is her family. Her brother David has autism, and throughout the novel Catherine struggles with having a younger brother who demands so much of their parent’s attention, has trouble communicating, and consistently embarrasses her in public. Desperate to help both her brother and herself, Catherine makes rules for David that teach him proper behavior at home and around strangers. Throughout the story she learns the power of love, acceptance, and breaking all kinds of rules.
Written by an insider to living in a family with a child who has autism, Rules compassionately portrays the characters of Catherine’s family and their struggles in learning how to live with one another. This book does not focus on only one person with a disability, incorporating Jason, a wheelchair and communication board user who attends occupational therapy with David. These characters are very real, inherently deserving of respect, and convey an accurate description of social interactions. The book deals with the idea of social acceptance in a very positive manner, offering insight into comical, serious, dramatic, and even heart-wrenching interactions.
As a piece of diverse literature, Rules offers yet another perspective of a family member living with a child with autism. Catherine's twelve year old sibling perspective is a valuable one to include in any collection, especially one in elementary and middle school libraries. Her situation is not unique, the book is well written and sympathetic, and it is important for this book to be available as a resource and an enjoyable novel for students of all ages.
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