Emelie's Voice

About the Book

From a subject close to my heart, a work of love and understanding in a titled book formed. Watching and listening to my daughter led me to become a voice and advocate for children who struggle daily with sensory issues and their journeys with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Emelie was the inspiration for me to pen this book. She had shown me insight into her world that I felt compelled to write and keep safe. Around her twelfth birthday, I was rereading these jewels and realized a pattern was established. Had I been more aware of these things when she was a younger age, I could have assisted my daughter through the challenges and daily struggles with sensory issues. Piecing together the written memories, a message was there, ready and waiting to be heard. As Emelie shared her voice with us, we wanted to share her voice with you. From a child’s perspective, this book shows insight into the daily challenges and issues that are abounding around children living with sensory issues and/or Autism. It’s her voice crying for understanding from those who can’t understand and shouting support for those who may feel they are alone. From the adult perspective, it’s a guide into one child’s world. Emelie’s voice to adults is that seeking patience, compassion and understanding. She’s asking adults to look deeper into the experiences of the children in their lives and see it through the eyes of that child. While each child with Autism and sensory issues is in a unique and diversified situation, to even have the notion or inkling of what may be happening, I believe would have helped anyone in their interactions with Emelie.

About the Author

Jennifer Dirks was born and raised in Wisconsin. She grew up all over the state getting to experience the benefits of urban, suburban and rural life. Eventually settling in rural Wisconsin where she can enjoy the nature and wildlife around her. She has learned to embrace life as it happens. Jennifer’s husband, Matthew, encouraged her to start a Facebook page based on their family’s journey with Autism. Emelie’s Voice is based on their twelve year old daughter’s experience with Autism and the sensory issues she has. Wonder Brother, Christian, keeps mom’s sanity intact with the reality of typical teenage boy-isms. Jennifer realized that she had captivated an audience with her following on Em’s Journey. People started coming back and interacting with their journey, wanting to know more. It compelled her to write this book with her daughter’s view to continue to share that support and experiences. She’s always dreamed of writing a children’s book. Although, she never dreamed that she would receive so much encouragement to finish and publish this book. Jennifer continues to keep Em’s Journey going on Facebook and it’s evolved from being a voice for Emelie to be heard to a place where the family shares the good and the bad. Jennifer being the core “blogger” in maintaining posts on the page. She’s known for keeping it real, good and challenging, as well as maintaining a sense of humor and hope. One of the things that Jennifer hopes for in her writings is that people walk away with hope and understanding. She has already started working on a second book for adults on the subject of parenting and Autism.