“In His Shoes”, is an extraordinary adventure into the mind of a teenage autistic. It teaches us all quiet wisdom and love - love for humanity, and the world, with insight to our strengths, limitations and possibilities....This is an educational, uplifting, empowering and inspirational read. I recommend it to teachers, students and scholars attempting to unravel the mystery of autism.

- Dr. Susan M. Larsen, Assistant Professor of Human Services, California State University, Fullerton

"In reading In His Shoes, I felt Nick's 'voice' was the same as the voice I hear in my own son. Joanna did a great job of conveying the thoughts and feelings of those who are nonverbal and affected with autism. This book is a must read for all those who have been touched by autism."

- Erika Hall, proud mom of two children with autism, CAC chair, Northeast SELPA

"In His Shoes is a valuable resource for helping middle school students as well as adults to understand and appreciate individuals with autism, their unique qualities and strengths, as well as their social and sensory challenges. Highlighting the similarities between middle school students and their peers with autism through everyday, common experiences such as school and community situations allows teens to relate to their classmates with autism in many ways. The Points to Ponder at the end of each chapter set the stage for great discussions and provide opportunities for better understanding."

- Laura Pellegrini, speech/language pathologist

"As a mother of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, I know firsthand how important it is that we see the child before we see the diagnosis. In His Shoes - A Short Journey Through Autism is an accurate portrayal of what living with autism looks like. Autism affects the way a child interprets the world around him, and by educating ourselves on autism and the struggles these children may face, the better chance we have of breaking through and forming a relationship with them. Joanna Keating-Velasco helps us do just that."

- Kate Jones, owner of JuKa Books - Special Books for Special Kids

"As a middle school teacher, I would strongly encourage my students to read this book. It is sometimes difficult to empathize with people who are different from us. This book, by giving the perspective of a boy with autism, helps readers not just to understand better what the experience is, but to care more. I recommend it strongly."

- Stephanie Matheny, middle school language arts teacher

"As a sister of an individual with autism I can most definitely say In His Shoes gives a realistic insight to the world of autism. Joanna Keating-Velasco shows readers that there is so much more to people with autism than just the disorder. The book chronicles an adolescent boy named Nick and his journey through junior high and the challenges he faces and obstacles he has to overcome related to his autism. You will come to love Nick, an adolescent with autism just starting middle school, and through him come to appreciate those who have autism and those who work with them. After reading this book you may think twice before judging someone because he or she is 'different.'"

- Kaitlin Lanning, high school student who has a brother with autism